A packed programme has been revealed for this year’s Edinburgh International Science Festival.

The 2016 event will focus on how science, technology, engineering and design have the potential to improve the world.

Venues across the capital will play host to more than 250 activities from March 26 to April 10.

Dame Evelyn Glennie will perform a new composition by composer Jill Jarman in the world premiere of The Sounds of Science.

Artist Warren Elsmore will also create a Mars habitat display with Lego building blocks at the National Museum of Scotland.

The City Art Centre will feature five floors of fun and exciting experiments and activities for children.

Among the highlights for the adults, leading astrophysicist Lord Martin Rees will be joined by European Space Agency astronaut Jean-François Clervoy and Professor Chris Rapley to share their views and experience on the big challenges of today’s world.

To help mark Dolly the sheep’s 20th birthday, Professor Sir Ian Wilmut will discuss how the cutting-edge research continues to influence science developments.

Creative director Amanda Tyndall said: “In 2016 the Edinburgh International Science Festival asks: how can we all collaborate to help build a better world?

"It’s a huge question but I'm excited by the mix of world-leading scientists, artists, authors and innovators that will join audiences in Edinburgh.”

The annual festival is produced by the Edinburgh International Science Foundation, an education charity which aims to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to discover the world around them through science.

Tickets for  went on sale on Tuesday.