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The Festival is a Flagstaff Unified School District sanctioned event.

SEPT. 20-29, 2019 SciFest.org

Sept. 20 – 29

The Best Ten Days of The Year W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presenter Apollo 16 Astronaut Charlie Duke Science in the Park Open Houses Star Parties Field Trips SCI Talks

MORE THAN 100 ACTIVITIES – ALL FREE!

For program updates and changes, visit us on Facebook and scifest.org

Apollo Moon-Walking Astronaut Charlie Duke Returns to Northern Arizona

Friday, Sept. 20

By Bonnie Stevens

In gratitude for the help the Apollo 16 astronauts received, they named a Moon crater after Flagstaff

W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation:

To the Moon and Beyond with Apollo 16 Astronaut Charlie Duke 7 p.m., NAU Ardrey Auditorium General Charlie Duke trained in Flagstaff before becoming the 10th man to walk on the Moon! Hear about his lunar experience and the future of space travel from this pioneering rocket man!

Charlie Duke was just like anyone else after a long ride in a cramped vehicle. When he got to the Moon, he was ready to stretch his legs and move around – but that’s different in zero gravity. Soon, he and his Moonwalking crewmate, Commander John Young, were running and leaping, and creating what they called, “Moon Olympics.”

“We started bouncing for the high jump in front of the TV camera,” said Duke. “My balance was not nearly as good as his. I fell over backwards, landed on my right side and bounced onto my back. It was the only time there was a moment of fear. I thought, ‘If that backpack breaks I’ve had it!’ John helped me up and NASA gave me a lecture.

Mission Control was very upset. That ended the Moon Olympics.”

Duke, the Apollo 16 Lunar Module pilot, was the 10th and youngest person to ever walk on the Moon.

He was involved in five Apollo Missions including Apollo 11, the first Moon landing with Neil Armstrong 2

and Buzz Aldrin. In tense moments as the Apollo 11 lunar module was touching down and running out of fuel, Duke told the astronauts from Mission Control, “We were all holding our breath.”

In preparation for his famous 1972 space flight, he, like all of the Apollo astronauts, trained in the Flagstaff area. “I found Flagstaff to be one of the most interesting places that we visited to study geology. I loved the people, the San Francisco Peaks and the beauty of the area.”

They practiced maneuvering a Moon buggy prototype over rough volcanic terrain and in and out of a simulated crater field north of town.

Young drove while Duke navigated.

“The suspension provided a lot smoother ride than we had on the Moon! The practice rover on Earth was 800 to 900 pounds and a lot more stable. The one on the Moon only weighed 80 pounds. The thing bounced around a lot!”

Duke also visited Meteor Crater and hiked the Grand Canyon as part

of his training, spending the night at Phantom Ranch. As a tribute to Flagstaff and the support the astronauts received, he and Young named a Moon crater near their Lunar Highlands landing spot, “Flag Crater,” a name that remains today.

“Most of us couldn’t tell the difference between a clod of dirt and a rock,” said Duke. “But with the astrogeology branch of the USGS [in Flagstaff] helping us, we felt wellqualified to describe the rocks we found on the Moon and pick up the right ones. I loved all those guys!”

Duke says they never got lost on the Lunar landscape. “If you were ever unsure, you could just make a U-turn and follow your tracks back.”

Decades later, he is following his tracks back to Flagstaff, launching the Flagstaff Festival of Science “To the Moon and Beyond” as the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presenter. General Duke will be sharing his experiences on the Moon and providing insight into the future of space travel.

“I see us back in space with a permanent Moon base. There we can develop systems and the confidence in repairing those systems, and eventually launch to Mars. We’ll learn how to live in deep space like we do in Antarctica and cycle in crews every couple of months,” he said. “We are going to want to see people going into space more. The human heart is meant to explore.”

General Charlie Duke is the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presenter at 7 p.m., Friday, Sept.

20, in Northern Arizona University’s Ardrey Auditorium. The event is free; however, tickets are required and can be obtained ahead of time on a first-come, first-served basis at the NAU Central Ticket Office (nau.edu/ cto or 928-523-5661).

View the “To the Moon and Beyond” presentation live at YouTube.com/c/ flagstafffestivalofscience Bonnie Stevens is the coordinator for the Flagstaff Festival of Science.

Message from the President Dear Friends, The Flagstaff Festival of Science is honored to be celebrating its 30th year running. Through the years, we’ve had countless open houses, guided hikes, lecture series, panel discussions, hands-on exhibits, and events that blur the lines between art and science, because what is Flagstaff without both?

I’ve seen children’s faces light up as they ponder the possibility of sending humans to Mars, or imagine how life will be different when cars drive themselves; their eyebrows furrow as they work the earth to practice the building techniques of the early Americans, or smiles burst when the mayor joins in to rehearse their dance routine before exhibiting the lunar rover replica robot they built as part of the 50th anniversary of the first Moon landing.

The Festival boasts more than 120 events this year that will amount to thousands of these moments big and small--moments that bring us all together, both young and old, for the joy of science, moments that could not be possible without the efforts of many: the generosity of the scientists who share their time and knowledge; the dedication of our consultants

providing first-rate material over the decades; the faith of the individuals and businesses that sponsor us, many since the very beginning; the diligence and tireless efforts of multi-talented, volunteer board members; and the exuberance and dedication of our participants returning year to year from near and far to explore and learn. The Flagstaff Festival of Science is a true grassroots effort that celebrates, exemplifies, and brings together the strengths of this community – our passion, commitment and insatiable appetite for learning – to give you what we oh-so-humbly assert are the best 10 days of the year. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!

I look forward in earnest to what we will all accomplish these next 30 years. Now, please come out and enjoy this year’s events. From astronauts to Zumba, robots to ferrets, the Grand Canyon to the lunar surface – we will take you to the Moon, and beyond!

Alyssa Deaver

A BIG THANK YOU To the Flagstaff Festival of Science BOARD OF DIRECTORS Joelle Clark Megan Coons Janet Dean Alyssa Deaver Winnie Ennenga Kathy Farretta David Gillette Todd Gonzales Tony Hannigan Moran Henn Brian A. Klimowski Lisa Leap Brandon Lurie Melinda McKinney Roger Nelson Brenda Strohmeyer Greg Vaughan Virgina Watahomigie Jillian Worssam

NASA Space Grant Provides Funding for Research Internships By Kerry Bennett When you think of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), you probably associate it with largescale, multibillion-dollar missions to Mars, Pluto and beyond. But NASA is also involved in thousands of projects on Earth—some right here in Flagstaff—to encourage STEM education at all levels.

As part of its public outreach efforts, NASA supports STEM education through its National Space Grant and Fellowship Project. Its goal is to contribute to the nation’s science enterprise by funding education, research and engagement projects through a network of university-based Space Grant consortia.

The Space Grant national network includes more than 850 member institutions and affiliates from universities, colleges, industry, museums, science centers and state

and local agencies. The consortia fund fellowships and scholarships for students pursuing STEM careers as well as curriculum enhancement and faculty development. Member colleges and universities also administer pre-college and public service education projects in their states.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

As one of the four member institutions of the Arizona Space Grant Consortium, Northern Arizona University receives nearly $140,000 per year through the Space Grant, part of which it uses to fund undergraduate internships providing opportunities to conduct meaningful research that furthers NASA’s mission.

NAU planetary scientist and professor Nadine Barlow is the

director of the NAU/NASA Space Grant program.

“The Space Grant program provides a unique way for undergraduate students to get involved in research projects with professional mentors at NAU and other local organizations working in any of the wide-ranging areas that comprise NASA’s interests,” she said.

“NASA’s interests are quite broad, ranging from planetary science and astrophysics to engineering, new materials and data pipelines, life in extreme environments, geologic features that are terrestrial analogs for what we see on other worlds, climate change on Earth and other planetary bodies and STEM education at the pre-college and general public levels,” she explained.

“NAU students in any of the STEM fields are eligible to apply for the internship program.”

More than 20 undergraduates have been selected to participate in the internship program during the 2019 - ‘20 academic year, representing a wide range of research projects. Here are just some examples: • Ava Chard will study the thermodynamics of melting in mixtures of outer solar system materials.

• Zeke Bandelier will investigate chlorine salt distribution and its implications for Mars.

• Madelyn Hart’s research will focus on active galactic nuclei in galaxy mergers.

• Dylan Chandler will investigate rapid assessment of responses to climate change using eDNA. • Michaela Cullipher will study Martian tortoises as models for perchlorate exposure. continued on page 15 3

Gore Space Products Taking Flight for 60 Years Gore wire and cable manufactured in Flagstaff was used in the Apollo 11 Mission In 1958, Bill and Vieve Gore believed in the untapped potential of the material polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) to contribute value to society.

And after only a few years in business, Gore products became an important part of some of the most significant space flight programs in history — a feat that the company continues to build upon today.

Gore marketing Associate Jennifer Chase-Haupt, who has a deep knowledge of Gore’s space products and adventures, says, “Over the past 50-plus years, we have been a part of more than 100 spaceflight programs with a 100% failurefree flight record. Our products perform in environments

where failure is not an option, and because of this they are relied on time and time again.”

Perhaps one of the most significant moments for Gore space products came in July of 1969: the Apollo 11 Moon landing.

Gore’s technology played a significant role in the historic mission. Many of the wires and cables used in the mission were manufactured here in Flagstaff and were part of the equipment that transported astronauts to the Moon, gathered data aboard the rocky surface and helped the crew navigate home.

Both the Gore family and the Enterprise’s 100-plus Associates (now more than 10,500 and 2,300 in Flagstaff alone) celebrated the company’s role in successfully landing Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong, Jr., on the Moon and bringing them safely back to Earth.

As for the future of Gore’s involvement in space — well, it’s just getting started. As a new frontier develops with more private companies venturing into space exploration, and given Gore’s strong presence across the aerospace industry and heritage of providing reliable data transfer across long distances and in challenging environments, the company is well-positioned to continue to offer solutions.

To learn more about additional products and history, visit gore.com/news-events/ apollo-anniversary-goreproducts-on-the-moon.

Astronaut Buzz Aldrin works with seismograph equipment that was connected to the lunar lander with Gore insulated flat cable during the Apollo 11 mission. Gore products were also part of the ground support equipment, tracking radar, computers and conductors.

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W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., is a global Enterprise and was a founding member of the Flagstaff Festival of Science 30 years ago. Gore’s advanced material capabilities enable them to push boundaries and deliver on its promise of Together, improving life.

W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., was a founding member of the Flagstaff Festival of Science 30 years ago.

Many of the wires and cables used in the mission were manufactured here in Flagstaff and were part of the equipment that transported astronauts to the moon, gathered data aboard the rocky surface and helped the crew navigate home.

A Brief History of Meteor Crater

The world’s best-preserved impact crater serves as an astronaut training ground By Gabriel Granillo and Drew Barringer Only a 45-minute drive east of Flagstaff on I-40 sits the Earth’s first proven and best preserved meteorite impact crater. Known in scientific circles as the Barringer Meteorite Crater, it’s more common name is just Meteor Crater. The name Barringer refers to the person who provided the initial proof as to the crater’s true origin.

Mining geologist Daniel Moreau Barringer’s first interest in the crater was that he thought a large mass of iron-nickel meteorite buried beneath the crater floor would be of enormous commercial value.

Acquiring the property in 1903, Barringer began a 25-year quest to find the sunken mass. His mining operations ended with his death in 1929, with no success in finding a large meteorite. But Barringer’s real obsession was convincing the scientific community that the crater was formed by a large meteorite falling from outer space, and was not the result of a volcanic steam explosion.

Barringer presented papers in 1906 and 1909 before the prestigious Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, but his conclusions about a meteorite impact were met with great skepticism by the broad scientific community. It wasn’t

until 1960 that geologist Eugene Shoemaker’s studies at Meteor Crater confirmed Barringer’s initial findings.

Dr. Shoemaker’s work at Meteor Crater and other sites around the world was instrumental to the growing science of astrogeology, and his work also led to the establishment of the U. S. Geological Survey facility in Flagstaff.

Some 50,000 years ago during the Pleistocene period, a meteorite some 50 meters in diameter struck the earth with the energy of 20-million tons of dynamite, creating an impact feature almost a mile wide, two-and-a-half miles in circumference, and 700-feet deep.

Barringer’s descendants still own the property through The Barringer Crater Company. It supports research about known and suspected impact craters on Earth and throughout the Solar System, as well as post-graduate education and research opportunities for young scientists. Ongoing research continues at the crater, including research that has importance for the study of Martian impact sites.

Gabriel Granillo is an assistant editor and staff writer with Flagstaff Live! and the Arizona Daily Sun. Drew Barringer is the CEO of Barringer Crater Company.

For 26 years, Flagstaff Athletic Club has been visiting FUSD elementary schools as part of an outreach program called Kids in Motion. We have donated more than $125,000 for FUSD elementary PE programs.

Your membership includes: 2 Clubs, 3 pools (including a salt pool, a lap pool and an outdoor pool), 4 Steamrooms, 6 Jacuzzis, 2 Kids Clubs, 9 Courts, State of the Art Weight and Cardio Equipment, Indoor Track, Gymnasium, Personal Training, Massage Therapy, Small Group Training, Physical Therapy and Tanning on site, plus much more! over 120 Group Fitness classes aweek includinG: Beginner Classes, Yoga, Cycling, Zumba, Step, Pilates, Aqua X, Les Mills®, Aqua for Arthritis, Barre Fusion 45, Barre Above, Piyo, Heart Rate, RPM, Body Pump, Body Jam and more.

Offer Expires 10/31/2019

FAC East: 779-5141 • FAC West: 779-4593

flagstaffathleticclub.com 5

GORE® SPACEFLIGHT PRODUCTS

Gore’s MIL-ENE insulated conductors were used on the Apollo spacecraft

e g a p l l u F e m O o P c F to d a

The lunar rock-collecting shovel also included Gore products

“THE EAGLE HAS LANDED…”

GORE HAS BEEN DEVELOPING PRODUCTS FOR THE SPACE INDUSTRY SINCE OUR ENTERPRISE WAS FOUNDED MORE THAN 60 YEARS AGO GORE HAS BEEN A PART OF MORE THAN 100 SPACEFLIGHT PROGRAMS

Gore wire and cable was a part of the ground support equipment— tracking radar, computers, and communication equipment to ensure a safe return home

GORE’S SPACE PRODUCTS ARE DURABLE, RELIABLE, AND HAVE A 100% FAILURE-FREE FLIGHT RECORD

GORE MATERIALS ARE SUITED FOR THE MOST DEMANDING ENVIRONMENTS

gore.com/apollo

Buzz Aldrin, Jr. and Neil Armstrong installed seismographic equipment that was connected to the lunar lander with Gore wire

International Space Station

Space suit fibers to protect astronauts

Gore’s products contributed to the success of multiple missions

LIFE IMPROVING TECHNOLOGY

SPACE SHUTTLE PROGRAM

XM/Sirius Satellite Radio

SPACE EXPLORATION

Cassini/Huygens

Weather and Atmospheric Monitoring

GPS Satellite Programs

Hubble Space Telescope

New Horizon

Mars Rover

GORE, Together, improving life and designs are trademarks of W. L. Gore & Associates ©2019 W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

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Sept. 20 thru Sept. 29 The Best Ten Days of The Year • Events and Activities - All FREE

MONDAY, SEPT. 16

Pre-Festival Bonus Event!

Lunar Lecture: Meet an Astronaut in Training 7 - 8 p.m.

CCC Lone Tree Campus

NASA astronaut candidate Jessica Watkins and senior astronaut Donald Pettit will discuss the training involved for space travel!

B O NU S EVENT Wednesday, Sept. 18 – Ocean Plastic Maria Campbell, Azulita Project Trey Highton, Save the Waves Film Festival 5:30 p.m.

Mountain Sports Flagstaff Join a local marine biologist and Save The Waves Coalition for a discussion about our oceans, climate and plastic pollution.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 20 Joy Cone Tours Register for a refreshing tour showcasing high-altitude ice cream cone technology!

Participants must be older than 5, at least one adult for every two children. Reservations required, flag.tours@joycone.com To the Moon and Beyond Ballet Preceding the Keynote Presentation 7 p.m., NAU Ardrey Auditorium Performers from the NAU Community Dance Academy will prepare you for an other-worldly journey!

W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation: To the Moon and Beyond with Apollo 16 Astronaut Charlie Duke 7 p.m., NAU Ardrey Auditorium General Charlie Duke trained in Flagstaff before becoming the 10th man to walk on the Moon! Hear about his lunar experience and the future of space travel from this pioneering rocket man! Get free tickets at NAU Central Ticket Office, or view live on YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/c/ flagstafffestivalofscience Free parking behind Cline Library in lot P13; $2/hr. parking in the garage nearest Ardrey Auditorium

Campus Sky Viewing 7:30 - 10 p.m.

NAU Campus Observatory On a clear night, let the Barry Lutz telescope be your window into the universe!

SATURDAY, SEPT. 21 Sea of Tranquility Hike 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Flagstaff Ranger Station Hike in a crater field, Flagstaff’s version of the Moon’s Sea of Tranquility, where Apollo 11 astronauts trained. Prepare for a 4-5 mile walk over uneven terrain, dress appropriately, bring water and snacks. We’ll watch a short film, then drive to the site. Reservations required, 928-527-8259 or jeannestevens@fs.fed.us Science in the Park 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Wheeler Park Check out the Lunar Rover replica robot created and demonstrated by local teen CocoNuts! Explore other worlds in 3D with planetary geologists, get muddy with archaeologists, fix holes in hearts with engineers in the Gore tent and count down to a rocket launch at 1 p.m. Today you’re a scientist!

NAU Science and Engineering Day Noon - 3 p.m.

NAU Science and Health Building Dueling robots, hissing cockroaches and the latest technological inventions will surprise you! Free parking behind Cline Library.

Tynkertopia Open House 3 - 6 p.m.

2152 N. Fourth Street, Suites 106-109 Visit Flagstaff’s STEM/STEAM Community Center. Bring your curiosity, playfulness and creativity!

John Wesley Powell’s River Trip and the 1869 Eclipse Richard Quarteroli, Historian 7 p.m.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Find out why the solar eclipse and other astronomical events were important to John Wesley Powell and his crew on their first Colorado River expedition.

Campus Sky Viewing 7:30 - 10 p.m.

NAU Campus Observatory On a clear night, explore the universe!

For program updates and changes, visit us on Facebook and scifest.org

SUNDAY, SEPT. 22 Tagging Monarch Butterflies 8:30 - 11 a.m.

Bubbling Ponds Fish Hatchery Become a field biologist and tag colorful migrating Monarch butterflies as they refuel on sunflower nectar! Find out more at https://swmonarchs.org/upcoming-events. php and make your reservation at info@ swmonarchs.org.

Hart Prairie Preserve Nature Walk 10 - 11: 30 a.m.

Meet at the Fort Valley Plaza Shopping Center 1000 N. Humphreys Street (SW corner near the guardrail) Learn about birds, wildflowers, forest ecology and The Nature Conservancy’s efforts to restore the alpine meadow on this 90-minute walk! No dogs please.

Elden Pueblo Public Day 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

West side of Hwy 89 at TownsendWinona Road Explore excavations, analzye artifacts, play primitive hunting games and learn about the lives of prehistoric people before they left the Flagstaff area. Tours at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.

Walk on Mars Noon - 4 p.m.

Sinagua Middle School Main Gymnasium Learn from planetary scientists about Mars’ land formations as you walk across a giant, gym-sized landscape map of Mars. Explorers of all ages are welcome!

Grand Canyon Science: The Next 100 Years 3 - 4:30 p.m.

USGS Building 3 Conference Room Join in the conversation as scientists look back, discuss what we know today and predict what we may see in the next 100 years!

Swear Not By the Moon: Myths and the Moon in Shakespeare’s Plays 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Branigar Hall Enjoy a live performance and lecture reflecting on the role the Moon played in science and psychology from the Renaissance to modern day.

First Man in the Northland Kevin Schindler, Lowell 7 - 8 p.m.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park The first man to walk on the Moon, walked here first! Retrace Neil Armstrong’s steps before he made one giant leap for mankind.

Campus Sky Viewing 7:30 - 10 p.m.

NAU Campus Observatory Let campus astronomers be your guides to the universe on a cloudless night!

MONDAY, SEPT. 23 Overtime Otaku 3 - 4:30 p.m.

East Flagstaff Community Library Explore science in Japanese comic books.

Ages 10 and up.

Science in Stacks 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Join in as librarians share their favorite science books and experiments. Ages 8 - 12.

Small Satellites Looking for Life Evgenya Shkolnik, ASU 4 - 5 p.m.

Lowell Observatory Scientists may be on the verge of something big with something small: a space satellite called SPARCS (Star-Planet Activity Research CubeSat) that is looking for Earth-like planets.

Ants of the Colorado Plateau 4 - 5 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Colton Research Center Center for Biocultural Diversity Schaefer Building #35 Children are invited to join an interactive program with microscopes and live specimens!

Observe ants in their colonies!

Exploring Martian Caves for Life, Shelter, Storage Jut Wynne, Ph.D., NAU 5 - 6 p.m.

Lowell Observatory Scientists are looking at Martian caves for future robotic and human exploration. They may also serve as shelter and storage, and could contain microscopic life!

Early Childhood for preschool to 3rd grade Afterschool Talk for middle school and high school students Afterschool Workshop for ages noted in the event description

Twilight Talks for high school students and adults Research Innovations for college students and life-long learners

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Lowell Open House 5 - 10 p.m.

Lowell Observatory View the stars and listen to engaging presentations. Free admission begins at 5 p.m.

Plotting the Plateau 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Join this book club that features the Colorado Plateau and NAU Career. Pick up a copy of “Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown at the Downtown Library Information Desk.

Bacterial Genomes and Judo for Health Talima Pearson, Ph.D., NAU 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

NAU Applied Research & Development Bldg. 56, Large Pod Conference Room Technological advances have helped researchers understand the genetic content of bacteria. Find out how this helps us fight pathogens that are evading immune systems, vaccines and treatment. Find full event details and parking instructions at scifest.org.

What is Altitude Training?

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Hypo2 Conference Room (NACET building) Thousands of elite athletes come to Flagstaff to train at high altitude. Learn about physiological changes and advantages visiting athletes are receiving.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 24 Toddler Tales 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Your toddler will delight in this special time for science-themed stories and songs.

Astronomy for Preschoolers 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Flagstaff Family Food Center Lowell Observatory Camps for Kids (LOCKs) Preschool introduces young minds to features and phases of the Moon! Parent attendance and participation is required. Ages 3 - 6.

Imagine, Create, Learn 3 - 6 p.m.

Tynkertopia Engineer your own creation using recycled materials. All ages welcome!

Crafty Corner Science Edition 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

East Flagstaff Community Library Join in a fun-filled afternoon of sciencethemed crafts. Ages 5 - 13.

Catapults!

4 - 5 p.m.

Coconino Community College Fourth Street Campus Test your skills at projectile motion. Build your own catapult to take home! For ages 6 - 12.

Reservations required, melinda.mckinney@ coconino.edu 8

Into the Canyon 4 - 5 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Join in a nature walk down the Rio de Flag Canyon. Become an ethnobotanist and search for native plants used by Native American cultures. Create a gourd craft to take home!

Water in Our Solar System Greg Vaughan, Ph.D., USGS 4 - 5 p.m.

Lowell Observatory The Earth is sometimes called the water planet, but you might be surprised to find out how much water exists elsewhere in the solar system!

Teen Café: Aeronautical Engineering & Flight Control 4:30 - 6 p.m.

Bookmans Learn about aeronautical engineering and flight control in paper airplanes. Explore different launching techniques!

Sleeping at High Altitude Jennifer Henderson, D.O. 5 - 6 p.m.

Lowell Observatory Explore the effects that living in high altitude have on sleep.

DNA Rewriting the Human Story 6 - 7 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Discuss “A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived: The Human Story Retold Through Our Genes,”

by Adam Rutherford. Books available at the Flagstaff Downtown Library Information Desk.

Meet William Henry Holmes: Artist, Geologist, Renaissance Man Alan Petersen, MNA 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Branigar Hall After working on a geological survey of the Rocky Mountains, William Henry Holmes focused on the Grand Canyon. His 1880s artwork became iconic images.

Animal Bone Artifacts & Tools 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Willow Bend Environmental Education Center Animal bones have been used to make needles, musical instruments and hair pins.

Archaeologists have studied tool-making techniques used by prehistoric people and want to share them with you!

Stargazing at 9,000 Feet 6:30 - 9 p.m.

Arizona Snowbowl Hart Prairie Lodge Touch the sky from the Hart Prairie Deck with local astronomers! We’ll start with a presentation inside and meet the stars as night falls.

Movie Night: First Man 7 - 10 p.m.

NAU Cline Library Enjoy this showing from the NAU CAL Film Series about Neil Armstrong’s historic steps on the Moon. Stay afterward to discuss the cinematography behind the biographical drama. The movie is rated PG-13. Find full event details and parking instructions at scifest.org.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 25 The Math in Dots 9 - 11 a.m.

Association for Supportive Child Care 2708 N Fourth Street Join us in the courtyard to explore math books “Press Here” and “10 Black Dots.”

Families can engage in activities that promote creative thinking.

Preschool Express 10:30 a.m. - 12: 30 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Enjoy science-themed stories, songs, games and more. For ages 4-5.

Downtown Geology Tour 1 - 2 p.m.

Mountain Sports Flagstaff Join Willow Bend and Mountain Sports on a walking tour through the eyes of a geologist.

Discover the ancient history of stones used in buildings. Reservations required. Pick up your free ticket at Mountain Sports Flagstaff or sign up at Willow Bend http://willowbendcenter. org/downtown-geology-sustainable-building/ Astronomy for Preschoolers 1 - 2:30 p.m.

East Flagstaff Community Library Lowell Observatory Camps for Kids (LOCKs) Preschool introduces young minds to features and phases of the Moon! Parent attendance and participation is required. Ages 3 - 6.

Planetary Science on Display 1 - 4 p.m.

NAU du Bois Center Learn about local research during the Northern Arizona Planetary Science Alliance Poster Session. Free parking pass available at NAU Walkup Sky Dome parking lot. Select special permit for Festival of Science at Sky Dome kiosk, print and place on dashboard.

Take a short walk to du Bois.

Imagine, Create, Learn 3 - 6 p.m.

Tynkertopia Engineer your own creation using recycled materials. All ages welcome!

Creation Station 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Join us for science-themed stories and crafts.

Ages 3 and up.

Flaming Hot Wednesdays 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

East Flagstaff Community Library Explore science to the Moon and beyond!

Ages 12 - 17.

Has Flagstaff’s Climate Changed?

Brian A. Klimowski, Ph.D. National Weather Service 4 - 5 p.m.

Lowell Observatory Is climate change already happening in Flagstaff? We’ll take a look at the data and knock out a few myths.

Metal Working 4 - 6 p.m.

Artisan Metal Works Learn about metal work through ironworking, welding, bending and plasma cutting. Take home your own creation! Recommended for 5th to 8th grades. Reservations required, 928-773-4959.

Robots and Drones 4 - 5 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Learn how fun and easy it is to fly a drone or program robot!

Exploring Insects 4 -5 p.m.

Coconino Community College, Fourth Street Campus Make insect masks and hear an insect-themed story from Marvelous Explorations through Science and Stories (MESS). Reservations required, loriegrissom@yahoo.com.

Ages 2 and Up. Roving on Mars Ken Herkenhoff, Ph.D., USGS 5 - 6 p.m.

Lowell Observatory With the recent loss of Opportunity, only the Mars Science Laboratory ventures on. Hear about these missions and plans for the next Mars rover!

The Science & Engineering of Brewing 5 - 6 p.m.

Wanderlust Brewery Take a guided tour of the Wanderlust Brewery.

Learn about the beer-making process and how beers get their distinctive flavors.

Ages 21 and over.

Fun with Worms 6 - 7 p.m.

East Flagstaff Community Library Learn how to harvest, house, feed and care for your composting worms that produce great fertilizer!

Visit scifest.org for information about the Lunar Legacy Lecture Series!

Bacteria as Cancer-Fighting Delivery Systems Jen Martinez, Ph.D., NAU 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

NAU Applied Research & Development Bldg. 56, Large Pod Conference Room Find out how bacterial cells can be genetically manipulated to create polymers that can perform tasks like delivering cancer-treating drugs. Find full event details and parking instructions at scifest.org.

The Science Behind Wipe-Outs 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Flagstaff Bicycle Revolution We’ve all crashed on our bikes, and there’s usually a scientific reason why we fell. Take a look at some spectacular crashes and learn how to become a better rider!

THURSDAY, SEPT. 26 Preschool Express 10:30 a.m - 12: 30 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Enjoy science-themed stories, songs, games, and more. Ages 4 - 5.

Zumba Physiology Alice Gibb, Ph.D., NAU 12:15 - 1:15 p.m.

Murdoch Center Join in an hour of cardio-dance. Learn about physiological changes that occur when we exercise. Wear sneakers and comfortable clothes. All ages and fitness levels welcome.

Astronomy for Preschoolers 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library Lowell Observatory Camps for Kids (LOCKs) Preschool introduces young minds to features and phases of the Moon! Parent attendance and participation is required. Ages 3 - 6.

Imagine, Create, Learn 3 - 6 p.m.

Tynkertopia Engineer your own creation using a wide variety of recycled materials. All ages welcome!

Lego Club 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

East Flagstaff Community Library Join the Lego Club for a special sciencethemed challenge. For grades K - 5.

Build Your Own Wind-Powered Vehicle 4 - 5 p.m.

Coconino Community College Fourth Street Campus Build and take home your own wind-powered vehicle from the construction shop! Come early for the open house at 3 p.m. Reservations required, melinda.mckinney@coconino.edu.

For grades K - 6.

Anatomy of a Portrait 4 - 5:30 p.m.

Coconino Center for the Arts This drawing workshop invites middle and high school students to learn about skeletal structure in creating human portraits. Reservations required, shawnskabelundstudio@gmail.com.

Pioneer Museum Open House 3 - 5 p.m.

Pioneer Museum See the iron lung, learn about medical history, explore the science of blacksmithing and candle dipping, and check out the newest exhibit, Resilience: Women in Flagstaff’s Past and Present.

Experiencing the Apollo 11 Splashdown Captain Larry Duncan, Retired Navy 4 - 5 p.m.

Lowell Observatory With a front-row seat to the Apollo 11 splashdown, Navy helicopter pilot Captain Larry Duncan flew in news photographers to capture history in the making. Feel the excitement through images!

Camels in the Sky: Our Arabian Astronomy Heritage Danielle Adams, Lowell 4 - 5 p.m.

Lowell Observatory Most star names come from Arabic. Hear about the astronomy folklore behind the names of stars visible during the Festival!

New Horizons Exploring the Kuiper Belt Will Grundy, Ph.D., Lowell 5 - 6 p.m.

Lowell Observatory NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft flew past an hourglass-shaped world earlier this year. Hear what this object can reveal about conditions in the outer solar system.

Dissections 4 - 5 p.m.

East Flagstaff Community Library Learn how species evolved to adapt to their environments. Use dissecting tools and take a look at the anatomy of worms, frogs and sharks! Reservations required, 928-606-6653.

Flagstaff Star Party 6 - 10 p.m.

Buffalo Park Explore Flagstaff’s precious starry sky with professional and amateur astronomers hosting 30 telescopes! Arrive early for presentations.

Bring your jacket!

Bringing Back the Black-Footed Ferret Jennifer Cordova, Arizona Game and Fish Dept.

5 - 6 p.m.

Lowell Observatory Find out how wildlife biologists are reintroducing the rare black-footed ferret to the Northland. View skulls, skins and research tools.

Mad About the Monsoon Flagstaff Cloud Appreciators 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Branigar Hall The North American Monsoon brings beautiful and sometimes violent storms. Take a look at the science behind Flagstaff’s rainy season and see some amazing clouds that roam over the Northland.

CCC Science Night Celebration 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Coconino Community College Lone Tree Campus, 2800 S. Lone Tree Road Launch water rockets, observe live organisms, participate in chemistry demonstrations, peer through microscopes, view the night sky and make your own catapult! Become a junior scientist and earn a prize! Free parking.

Women in STEM Networking Night Julie Lancaster, Consultant Lisa Prato, Lowell 7 - 9 p.m.

Firecreek Coffee Hear two, 30-minute presentations about how to become an innovative thinker and the search for Earth-like planets. Meet role models, build your network!

Flagstaff Star Party 6 - 10 p.m.

Buffalo Park Explore Flagstaff’s precious starry sky with professional and amateur astronomers hosting 30 telescopes! Arrive early for presentations.

Bring your jacket!

FRIDAY, SEPT. 27 Recycling Center Tour 1 - 2 p.m.

Materials Recovery Facility Join Willow Bend to see what goes on behind the scenes of recycling. Meet at the facility, northeast corner of Butler and Babbitt. Reservations required, http://willowbendcenter.org/recycling-center/

For program updates and changes, visit us on Facebook and scifest.org

Suddenlink Presents: SCI Talks 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Coconino Center for the Arts

Hear four TEDx-inspired, 15-minute Science, Communication, Innovation Talks. Doors open at 6 p.m., talks begin at 6:30 p.m.

Refreshments available for purchase.

A River Reborn: The Restoration of Fossil Creek Jane Marks, Ph.D., NAU After a century of disturbance, Fossil Creek was restored with its travertine formations, steep waterfalls, deep pools and native fish. Take a look at this ecological success story!

Accurate Passion: Fine Art in the Service of Science Victor Leshyk, NAU Though sometimes seen as incompatible, science and art have a long history together. Hear how each field supports the other and how the unique field of “SciArt” helps create a well-rounded worldview.

Reimagining Creativity Sara Abercrombie, Ph.D., NAU Learn about the science of creativity and how to harness your own curiosity and interest to live a more innovative life.

Tynkertopia: Learning by Doing Veteran educator Alice Christie, Ph.D., shares the Tynkertopia journey, a story about connecting life’s meaningful experiences into a culminating endeavor to create Flagstaff’s STEM/STEAM Community Center.

Campus Sky Viewing 7:30 - 10 p.m.

NAU Campus Observatory Explore Flagstaff’s precious starry sky with professional and amateur astronomers hosting 30 telescopes! Arrive early for presentations.

Suddenlink Presents:

SATURDAY, SEPT. 28

Tagging Monarch Butterflies 8:30 - 11 a.m.

Red Rock State Park Tag colorful migrating Monarch butterflies as they refuel on sunflower nectar! Find out more at https://swmonarchs.org/upcoming-events. php. Make your reservation by calling Red Rock State Park, 928-282-6907.

Picture Canyon Hike 9 a.m. - Noon Picture Canyon See petroglyphs, wildlife and Flagstaff’s only waterfall on this three-mile hike! Bring hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothes, sun protection, water and snacks. Reservations required, robert.wallace@flgastaffaz.gov Homolovi Pueblo Guided Tour 9 a.m. - Noon Homolovi State Park Visitor Center Take I-40 Exit 257, proceed north 1.5 miles Tour a remote ancestral Hopi village within Homolovi State Park and Observatory.

Reservations required, 928-289-4106.

Walnut Canyon National Monument Open House 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Walnut National Monument Celebrate your National Park Service Public Lands Day by experiencing a National Park or National Monument near you!

9

Wupatki National Monument Open House 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Wupatki National Monument Celebrate Public Lands Day by experiencing a Northland National Park or National Monument!

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument Open House 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunset Cration Volcano National Monument Celebrate your National Park Service Public Lands Day by experiencing a National Park or National Monument near you!

Apollo Training Sites Hike 9:30 a.m. - Noon Sunset Crater National Monument Meet in front of Visitor Center Take this guided hike to sites where Apollo astronauts trained. Bring sturdy footwear, a daypack, water, sunscreen, hat and snacks. Reservations required, 928-526-0502.

Tracking the Health of our National Parks 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Walnut Canyon National Monument If you’ve ever made a list of all the birds you hear or the flowers you see, you are equipped to be a citizen scientist! Help National Park researchers collect information.

Prehistoric Tool & Technology Demonstrations 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Walnut Canyon National Monument Participate in hands-on activities featuring prehistoric tools and technology used to grind corn and hunt.

Ponderosa Forest Ecology Hike 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Walnut Canyon National Monument This guided hike to a historic ranger cabin will show evidence of wildfires dating to the 1500s and forest change since 1876. Meet in front of the Walnut Canyon Visitor Center. Bring sturdy footwear, a daypack, water, sunscreen, hat and snacks. Reservations required, 928-526-3367.

Fort Valley Experimental Forest Open House 10 a.m. - Noon Hwy 180, 1 mile west of Snowbowl Road Join the Friends of Fort Valley as hosts lead tours of historic buildings and discuss ecological restoration and climate change research underway at the nation’s first forest research site.

Full STEAM Ahead 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Flagstaff High School Join the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth for the 9th annual Early Childhood Fair: Full STEAM Ahead with hands-on activities, movement, resources and healthy snacks.

Ages 0 - 8.

Watch for Festival program updates at Scifest.org 10

Explore TGen: Home of Flagstaff’s Disease Detectives 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

TGen Go behind the scenes of the Translational Genomics Research Institute and find out how disease detectives chase down deadly outbreaks.

Sustainable Building Tour 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Willow Bend Environmental Education Center Join Willow Bend, Coconino County and others for the annual self-guided Sustainable Building Tour. See construction methods, rainwater harvesting demonstrations, xeriscape gardening, greywater systems and solar power. Tour packets are available at Willow Bend on the day of the tour.

Back West Celebration of Stone Balancing 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Willow Bend Environmental Education Center Participate in this annual celebration of stone balancing with hands-on activities, a kids area and demonstrations.

Tynkertopia Open House 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Tynkertopia Visit Flagstaff’s STEM/STEAM Community Center. Develop creativity through curiosity, wonder, playfulness and problem solving.

A Walk in the Woods: Exploring the Ponderosa Pine Forest 10:30 a.m. - Noon Fort Tuthill County Park See how the forest is responding to restoration treatments. Find out how researchers at NAU’s Ecological Restoration Institute are working to prevent severe wildfires. Meet at the forest resiliency interpretive sign north of the Fort Tuthill Bike Park.

Saturday Story Stop 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Flagstaff Downtown Library This family time features science stories and a craft. For all ages.

National Weather Service Open House 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Camp Navajo Army Depot Bellemont, I-40, Exit 185 Take a tour, visit with forecasters and technicians, and engage in interactive activities. Catch the weather balloon launch at noon, 2 p.m., and 4 p.m.!

Fantastic Voyage Noon - 4 p.m.

Flagstaff Medical Center This child-sized health fair showcases fun displays and hands-on activities centered on healthcare and the mysteries of the human body.

Museum of Northern Arizona Open House 2 - 4 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Check out the exhibits that feature life on the Colorado Plateau.

Hot Topics Café: Who’s in Charge of Space Travel?

3 - 4:30 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona Branigar Hall Should space exploration be an international endeavor? Should it be privatized, financed with tax dollars or paid for by advertising?

Hear from a panel of scientists and philosophers.

BIG Event: Believing In Girls 3 - 6 p.m.

NAU Fieldhouse See how STEM is woven into Girl Scout programming. Explore hands-on activities with other Girl Scouts from all over Northern Arizona.

Saving the Ocean from Plastic 4 - 5:30 p.m.

Willow Bend Environmental Education Center Find out how to reduce your use of plastic and keep waste out of the oceans. Dig through a mini beach and make a clay creation.

Flagstaff Star Party Flagstaff Star Party 6 - 10 p.m.

Buffalo Park Explore Flagstaff’s precious starry sky with astronomers hosting 30 telescopes. Enjoy “Music Under the Stars” by the Dark Skies String Quartet. Bring your jacket!

Moon: A World Away, Not a World Apart Dan Foley, NAU 7 - 8 p.m.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Learn about Arizona’s connections to the exploration and understanding of the Moon, and the prospects of future space tourism!

Homolovi Pueblo Star Party 7 - 10 p.m.

Homolovi State Park Visitor Center Join in the star party at the new Winslow Homolovi Observatory (WHO). Listen to a program and gaze through the Moore Telescope and I-telescope inside the museum.

U.S. Naval Observatory Open House 7 - 10 p.m.

U.S. Naval Observatory The Navy uses the stars to set the world’s clocks. Take a tour and find out why the Navy has an observatory so far away from an ocean!

Campus Sky Viewing 7:30 - 10 p.m.

NAU Campus Observatory Peer into the universe on a clear night!

SUNDAY, SEPT. 29 Lava River Cave Hike 8:30 a.m. - Noon Coconino National Forest Step back in time more than 500,000 years to explore lavacicles and splash downs in an ancient lava tube. This primitive, strenuous hike totals 1.5 miles. Reservations required, estephany@latinooutdoors.org

The Arboretum at Flagstaff Fall Open House 9 a.m. - Noon Bring the family for hands-on activities, educational exhibits, guided tours, hiking trails and fun in the forest!

Space, 3D Printing and Design Workshop 10 - 11:30 a.m.

NAU Cline Library Maker Lab Learn the basics of 3D printing and TinkerCAD to design your favorite space object.

Free parking available behind the library.

Reservations required, https://nau.libcal.com/ event/5487260 Scenic Science Chairlift Starting at 10 a.m.

Arizona Snowbowl Soar to the alpine tundra and meet a Ranger at the top to learn about the sky island ecosystem, forest wildlife and geologic formations of the San Francisco Peaks. Email customerservice@snowbowl.ski to reserve one of 50 free tickets (limit two per party).

USGS Flagstaff Science Campus Open House 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

USGS Explore interactive displays and activities related to geology, geography, biology, hydrology, planetary science and mapping!

Hart Prairie Preserve Nature Walk 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Meet at the Fort Valley Plaza Shopping Center 1000 N. Humphreys Street SW corner near the guardrail Learn about birds, wildflowers, forest ecology and The Nature Conservancy’s efforts to restore the alpine meadow on this 90-minute walk! No dogs please.

To the Moon 2:30 - 4 p.m.

USGS Building 3 Conference Room Interact with a panel of lunar scientists as they discuss current and future Moon exploration.

Science History Podcast Live Recording Frank von Hippel, Ph.D., NAU 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Flagstaff Medical Center McGee Auditorium Experience a live podcast about human genetics. Learn about our evolutionary history revealed through the genetic code and our resistance to disease.

The State of the Climate 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Panelists will share climate science and solutions updates including the first year of implementing Flagstaff’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

Campus Sky Viewing 7:30 - 10 p.m.

NAU Campus Observatory Stargaze on a clear night!

Science in the Park Brings the Forest to Downtown By Anne Mottek Festival participants will get to feel like a lumberjack at Wheeler Park on Saturday, Sept. 21. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages can explore logging equipment like a fellerbuncher that cuts, de-limbs and stacks trees and a skidder that moves logs through the forest to landings where they are loaded onto trucks.

Visitors will also have the chance to visit with loggers, firefighters and forest product industry professionals to find out what items are made from logs, branches, twigs and other biomass materials that are thinned from the forest.

Also, members of the Greater Flagstaff Forests Partnership (GFFP) will present a “Forest Treatments, Logging Methods and Fire Adapted Communities” exhibit.

Other highlights include photo opportunities with Smokey Bear and Louie the Lumberjack, cross-saw demonstrations by Northern Arizona University’s Logging Sports Team, a forest fire demonstration that illustrates the difference between how a healthy forest burns versus an unhealthy forest, and a kid’s corner with many hands-on activities including a “Put the Flame Out” squirting contest!

As the pace and scale of forest restoration efforts have increased in and around Flagstaff, and forest thinning is occurring close to neighborhoods, this event provides the opportunity for community members of all ages to learn about the various types of logging methods being used and the measures being taken to reduce the risk of severe wildfire in our forests and mountain communities.

Forestry professionals will be available to discuss current forest thinning projects in the Dry Lake Hills, part of the Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project (FWPP); at Chimney Springs, part of the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI); and on Coconino County land in the middle of town, behind Sechrist Elementary School, a GFFP grantfunded project.

Residents can also gain valuable insight into how to protect their homes, property and family from wildfire.

Science in the Park is scheduled for 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, at Wheeler Park.

Anne Mottek is a business consultant with the Greater Flagstaff Forests Partnership.

GRAND

OPENING

lowell.edu/GODO

d n a n a c u o y “ Bel ieve ” . e r e h t y a you’re hal f w

-Theodore Roosevelt

Education is the bridge to bright futures and a strong community. That’s why we proudly support Flagstaff Festival of Science for connecting and inspiring the citizens of Northern Arizona with the wonders of science and the joys of scientific discovery.

Your commitment to education means a brighter future for all of us.

Earthlings explore Mars with a basketball-court-sized Mars map. Planetary scientists from Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University and the U.S. Geological Survey act as tour guides ready to point out interesting landscape features. Walk on Mars from noon to 4 p.m., Sunday, Sept.

22 in the Sinagua Middle School main gymnasium.

422847-18

Taking a Walk on Mars

11

is a proud sponsor of the

Flagstaff Festival of Science September 20–29, 2019

NAU Science and Engineering Day*

September 21, 12–3 p.m.

Science & Health Building on North Campus

Cave Detection on Earth and the Exploration of Caves on Mars

September 23, 5 p.m.

Lowell Observatory Afterschool Talk by Jut Wynne, NAU Assistant Research Professor of Biology

Film: “First Man” starring Ryan Gosling*

VPR Innovation Lecture Series* Applied Research and Development Building, Large Pod •

Bacterial Genomes and Judo for Health September 23, 6:30 p.m.

Talima Pearson, NAU Assistant Research Professor of Biology

Self-Evolving Polymers • September 25, 6:30 p.m.

Jen Martinez, NAU Professor of Chemistry

W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation: To the Moon and Beyond* September 20, 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:15 p.m.)

NAU’s Ardrey Auditorium Apollo 16 Astronaut General Charlie Duke

Campus Sky Viewing*

September 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, 7:30–10 p.m.

NAU Campus Observatory

Panel Discussion: Who Should Control Space Travel?

September 21, 3–5 p.m.

Museum of Northern Arizona A Hot Topics Café event by NAU’s Philosophy in the Public Interest

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A Walk in the Woods: Exploring the Ponderosa Pine Forest

September 24, 7 p.m.

NAU Cline Library Assembly Hall Acclaimed 2018 film on the life of astronaut Neil Armstrong, sponsored by NAU’s College of Arts & Letters

September 28, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Fort Tuthill County Park, north of the Bike Park NAU’s Ecological Restoration Institute

Planetary Science on Display*

The Moon: A World Away, Not a World Apart

September 25, 1-4 p.m.

NAU duBois Center South Union Northern Arizona Planetary Science Alliance poster session

The Physiology of Cardio-Dance: What Happens When I Exercise?

September 26, 12:15–1:15 p.m.

The Murdoch Center Cardio-dance led by Alice Coulter Gibb, NAU Professor of Physiology and licensed Zumba instructor; wear sneakers

SCI Talks

September 27, 6:30–8 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.)

Coconino Center for the Arts • A River Reborn: The Restoration of Fossil Creek Jane Marks, NAU Professor of Biology • Reimagining Creativity Sara Abercrombie, NAU Assistant Professor of Educational Psychology • Accurate Passion: Fine Art in the Service of Science Victor Leshyk, NAU Senior Coordinator

September 28, 7 p.m.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Dan Foley, NAU instructor and USGS scientist

NAU MakerLab Workshop: Space, 3D Printing and Design*

September 29, 10–11:30 a.m.

NAU Cline Library MakerLab Register at https://nau.libcal.com/event/5487260

Science History Podcast

September 29, 5–6 p.m.

McGee Auditorium at Flagstaff Medical Center Frank von Hippel, NAU Professor of Ecotoxicology, interviews Jason Wilder, NAU Associate Professor of Biology and Interim Dean of CEFNS View the Festival of Science calendar at scifest.org/events for complete event details and parking instructions. Visit nau.edu/maps to navigate NAU’s campus. *For participants with disabilities needing reasonable accommodation to attend NAU sponsored events, please contact the NAU Disability Resources Office at 928-523-8773 or DR@nau.edu. For accessibility questions related to any other event, please contact the Festival of Science at info@scifest.org.

nau.edu

Moving Full STEAM Ahead

By Virginia Watahomigie

As 90% of human brain development occurs between birth and the first five years of life, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth is offering its ninth annual Early Childhood Fair in Flagstaff. This STEAM(science, technology, engineering, arts and math) themed event is specially geared toward young children, 0 - 8 years old.

Research shows, it is during these young ages that children develop the necessary framework to build their STEAM understanding that will serve them throughout their lives. Play, engaging activities and caring adults are all crucial elements for healthy development.

The Festival event, Full STEAM Ahead, will feature more than 40 vendors from a wide range of local services and businesses all focused on supporting families and children. Children will find engaging and fun hands-on activities such as art projects, puppets, bean bag tosses, even catapult building, while parents explore community resources and gather helpful information.

Bring the family, come out and play. Snacks will be provided and a specialty event corner will be set up to have activities such as dance and movement from a trained dance therapist.

Suddenlink is proud to promote STEM in our local communities.

Full STEAM Ahead is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 28 at Flagstaff High School.

Virginia Watahomigie is the executive director of the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth.

Join us on Saturday, September 28 from Noon - 4 p.m.

1200 N. Beaver Street Fantastic Voyage is a free, family-friendly event that features fun displays and hands-on activities centered on healthcare and the mysteries of the human body.

To learn more about Fantastic Voyage, call 928-639-6071.

See you on the journey!

Northern Arizona Healthcare

Co lle g

e

Part of the Flagstaff Festival al off Sc Science Science e

Friday, September 27, 2019 / 5:30 - 7:30 0 p.m. p

CCC Lone Tree Campus Commons Launch water rockets, observe live organisms, participate in chemistry demonstrations, peer through microscopes, view the night sky and make your own catapult!

The first 100 participants to complete the Jr. Scientist Labs will each receive one high-quality magnifying glass!

Free parking.

ity

Part of the Flagstaff Festival of Science

www.scifest.org

Co mm un

at Flagstaff Medical Center

CCC SCIENCE CELEBRATION NIGHT ino

Fantastic Voyage

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Northern Arizona Healthcare’s

While supplies last.

See greeters’ table for details.

Flagstaff Lone Tree Campus 2800 S. Lone Tree Rd., Flagstaff, AZ 86005 www.coconino.edu | 928-527-1222

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Robots, Teenage Engineers Engaging Students

Kids, cultures, history, STEM collide at Flagstaff Festival of Science activity

By Bonnie Stevens

he met “Mr. T,” a large ball-throwing robot, during the Flagstaff Festival of Science. “Mr. T fired a ball at me.

I caught it and threw it back. I was hooked.”

“You’ll see transformational change in these students and leadership skills that wouldn’t be there because they are exposed to the fun of building, designing and operating robots,” says Thompson.

Thompson credits the Flagstaff Festival of Science for creating the platform that connects kids to science in a playful, no-pressure environment, like the Flagstaff 4th of July Parade. CocoNuts Coach Christine Sapio agrees. “If I were to count, I don’t know how many robotics teams we’ve started because of the Festival,” she says.

Kids, cultures, robots and history collided in front of Percival Lowell’s telescope dome where he searched for water on Mars a century ago and the first evidence of the expanding universe was documented.

Photos by Bonnie Stevens

Oscar Landa Samano, a sophomore at Coconino High School and member of the CocoNuts FIRST Robotics team, understands how life-changing the exposure to robots and STEM learning can be. Oscar, who is bilingual, was not exposed to technology growing up in his Spanish-speaking household.

However, he now sees himself pursuing higher education and a career as an engineer. He will be the first in his family to go to college.

Oscar’s optimism about his future is significant because, according to statistics from U.S. public high schools for the 2011 -‘12 year, 27% of Hispanic students nationwide did not finish high school. That number was 14

slightly higher in Arizona at 30%.

Fifteen-year-old Oscar has a commanding presence as he speaks confidently about robots to interested onlookers. On the 4th of July, Oscar and the CocoNuts were demonstrating their robots to thousands of people in downtown Flagstaff. They were part of the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce 4th of July Parade.

“It is just a huge community-driven celebration for our city and region,” said Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce President, CEO and Parade Commentator Julie Pastrick from the balcony of the historic Weatherford Hotel. “We know that visitors come from near and far to celebrate 4th of July in Flagstaff. We

hear from many that the fact that Travel and Leisure magazine named Flagstaff the No. 1 place to celebrate Independence Day is really a draw.”

The 4th of July Parade is not an event where visitors would expect to find science demonstrations.

Spectators come for fun and celebration. Yet, that’s the perfect environment for getting people excited about science, says Dave Thompson, Ph.D., a CocoNuts coach and assistant clinical professor with Northern Arizona University’s Center for Science Teaching & Learning.

Fifteen-year-old CocoNuts team member Ronan Hedberg is an example of a young person who became interested in robots while just having fun. He says, at age 10,

The Flagstaff Festival of Science and the CocoNuts FIRST Robotics Team partnered for their parade entry, which included a Lunar Rover replica robot built by the teens.

The CocoNuts will be demonstrating their robots including their Lunar Rover replica at Science in the Park on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Wheeler Park and at NAU Science and Engineering Day in the Science and Health Building on the same day.

Bonnie Stevens is the Festival coordinator.

NASA’s Space Grant Program cont. from page 3

Every astronaut who walked on the Moon trained

in Flagstaff.

You can hike in their footsteps.

• Christian Jimenez’s project will focus on LandSat integration into an open source (R) Shiny App. • Megan Gialluca will explore exoplanet atmospheric characterization with future space telescopes.

Hands-On Space Science Classroom Activities

Another initiative benefitting from the NAU NASA Space Grant is the American Indian Mobile Educational Resources (AIMER)

program, one of several pre-college educational programs supported by funding from the NAU/NASA Space Grant Program. AIMER provides hands-on space science lessons and activities teaching concepts of astronomy, physics, and engineering to students at rural tribal K-12 schools in Arizona. The project is a partnership between the NAU/NASA Space Grant and NAU’s Department of Astronomy and Planetary Sciences and College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences.

AIMER provides telescopes for evening star parties in conjunction with classroom activities held during the day. AIMER can be requested by a teacher at any tribal school in Arizona to supplement his or her classes during the academic year at no charge to the school.

The Space Grant also provides support for NAU’s Undergraduate Symposium and for the Flagstaff Festival of Science.

Kerry Bennett is a research communications officer at Northern Arizona University.

SUPERNOVA FRIENDS

GALACTIC FRIENDS Charlot M. Root Molly and Joseph Herman Foundation

Sharon TewksburyBloom

Maury Herman and Karen Kinne Herman

Northern Arizona Association of REALTORS®

FREE

STELLAR FRIENDS

Trail Map & Passport

APS • Bonnie Stevens’ Communication Station • Coconino Center for the Arts • Ecological Restoration Institute at NAU • Robert and Sheila Edgar • Joy Cone Flagstaff • Kevin and Gretchen Schindler • Little America • McCarthy & Weston • McClanahan Family Fund • Nestle Purina • NAU College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences • Riordan Mansion State Historic Park • Rocky Mountain Research Station

Available at the

PLANETARY FRIENDS

Flagstaff’s Lunar Landmarks Flagstaff Visitor Center One E. Route 66

Arizona Snowbowl • Arizona Space Grant • Byron and Jennifer Hayes • Bruce and Jane Hungate • Clear Aire Audio • Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth • David and Janet Gillette • Flagstaff Unified School District • KAFF Radio • Greg and Alicia Vaughan • Intel Benevity Fund • John and Sara Casciani • Karen Malis-Clark and Shannon Clark • KOLT Country/Rewind The Wolf/The Big Talker • Paul and Deborah Holbrook • Pepsi Cola Bottling Co. of Flagstaff • Pilkington Advertising • Pioneer Title • The Jim St. Leger Family • The Krueger Family • Yavapai Broadcasting

COMETARY FRIENDS Brandon and Mackenzie Lurie • Brian A. Klimowski • Cornerstone Environmental Consultants • Joelle and Roger Clark • Noah and Debi Stalvey • Richard & Nelda Vaughan • Tony Hannigan • Virginia Watahomigie

COSMIC FRIENDS Alyssa Deaver • Arizona State University • AZ Gives Day • Coconino Astronomical Society • Dolores and Chuck Biggerstaff • Flagstaff Model Railroad Club • Habitat Harmony • Jillian Worssam • Kathy Farretta • Lisa Leap • Mottek Consulting • Nicole Lober • Outreach for the Stars • Sue Priest • The Arborertum at Flagstaff • Todd Gonzales and Megan Coons • Winnie Ennenga 15

Meet the Stars at Buffalo Park

Flagstaff’s world-class dark skies on display in annual Flagstaff Star Party, Sept. 26 - 28 Flagstaff is leading the world in awareness, appreciation and awe of a clear view into the Universe and celebrating its cherished dark skies in the sixth annual Flagstaff Star Party, Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 26 - 28, 2019, at Buffalo Park.

The free, family-friendly event, spearheaded by the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition, features: naked eye and telescopic star gazing and planetary exploration including 30 telescopes hosted by amateur and professional astronomers; sunset and dark sky presentations by local scientists; “Music Under the Stars,” by the Dark Skies String Quartet; coaching on binocular and telescope use; and, hands-on workshops about using your own telescope and night sky photography.

“The inspiration of star-filled night skies and the need for protection of dark skies from light pollution is well understood and widely celebrated by the Flagstaff community,” said Star Party Steering Committee Member Chris Luginbuhl, a retired U.S. Naval Observatory astronomer. “There is no other star party with views as clear and accessible as this one. In no other city of this size can you see the Milky Way so clearly.”

Flagstaff became the world’s first International Dark-Sky City in 2001, however, its dark sky protection began in 1958, when astronomers made the case for having the importance of sky quality preservation written into Flagstaff’s lighting code and engineering standards for research. To date, local observatories have invested more than $125 million in astronomical assets here and Flagstaff is recognized as the world leader in dark skies protection. “We always want to point out, there’s much more to dark skies than scientific exploration for the observatories,” said Lowell Observatory Director Jeff Hall, Ph.D. “Keeping Flagstaff

in the dark is good for wildlife, human health, the economy and public enjoyment. A sky full of stars connects us to the Universe.”

“Nobody owns dark skies like Flagstaff,” said Walter Crutchfield of Vintage Partners, developer of Flagstaff’s first dark sky community, Timber Sky, and Star Party lead sponsor since 2015. “Flagstaff is teaching me to understand the soul of dark skies and what it means to the community, and that in fact, dark skies are an asset to the entire community, including developers.”

The party begins Thursday at 6 p.m., with an open-air presentation

by Lowell astronomer Brian Skiff on “Sunset Shadows and Circles”

that occur as the sun dips below the horizon and the sky darkens.

He will give the presentation on Friday at 6 p.m., as well. Those interested in catching the Sunset Talk beginning promptly at 6 p.m., are encouraged to arrive by 5:30 p.m., to allow enough time to walk into the park. At 6:45 p.m., Thursday, Hall offers a Twilight Talk about the “Why and How” of dark sky protection and Flagstaff’s leadership role. At 6:45 p.m., Friday, Northern Arizona University astronomer Tyler Robinson, Ph.D., will explore planets orbiting other stars in his Twilight Talk, “Exoplanets: Weird and Wonderful Worlds.”

On Saturday at 6:15 p.m., the

Star Party presents the premier performance of the Dark Skies String Quartet featuring Flagstaff musicians David Koerner, Melissa Cripps, Marty Cook and Cynthia Binkley playing “Music under the Stars.” The outdoor concert includes new arrangements of “Sunset” from Grofé‘s Grand Canyon Suite and “Jupiter” from Holst’s The Planets.

Registration and a small fee are required for workshops: “How to Use Your Own Telescope,” by members of the Coconino Astronomical Society and “How to photograph the Night Sky,” by New York photojournalist Stan Honda.

The Flagstaff Star Party is being held this year concurrently with the Flagstaff Festival of Science. For more information and to register for workshops, visit FlagstaffStarParty.org.