Welcome to the Mathematics Informatics Station (MAINS)

Experience and understand mathematics and computer science! In 2017, the Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation opened the MAINS, right near the Heidelberg central train station. Throughout the year, we offer various activities for all age groups such as interactive exhibitions, portrait gallery, film screenings, Science Notes, lectures and much more. Come and see for yourself how exciting mathematics and computer science can be! The MAINS also offers guided tours of the exhibitions for school classes and groups.

Poster from the exhibition Secret.

Secret!

new exhibition

Why do we love secrets? How do we keep them, and how are they revealed? The interactive exhibition “Secret!” invites visitors to solve riddles and explore the fascinating world of cryptography. From historical encryption methods to modern applications, there’s something for everyone aged 8 and above!

February 14 – December 14, 2025
Experience interactive exhibits, uncover encryption techniques, and gain surprising insights into the world of secrets!

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Exhibition Poster MAINS on tour

mains ON tOUR!

INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION

MAINS is going on tour again, as part of the 12th Heidelberg Laureate Forum! We will be showing a cross-section of our current exhibition “Secret!”, as well as the exhibition “Wild Dynamics” by mathematician Pierre Berger.

September 14 – 19, 2025
Open from September 14 to 18, daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and additionally September 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Flyer from the photo exhibition Women in Mathematics.

Women of Mathematics throughout Europe

A gallery of portraits

Entering the field of mathematics can be difficult, and women often face specific obstacles. “Women in Mathematics throughout Europe” offers special insight and perspective into the world of mathematics. It portrays female mathematicians, their career paths and demonstrates their favorite mathematical formulas.

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Exhibitions in the MAINS