Houston Museum of Natural Science News May/June 2016

news M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 VOLUME 21, NUMBER 3 w w w. h m n s . o r g

H M N S I N T H I S I S S U E • H M N S C ATA LY S T S • M I X E R S & E L I X I R S • W O R L D T R E K K E R S w w w. h m n s . o r g / i n t e r a c t

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In 2 HMNS Catalysts World Trekkers Mixers & Elixirs 3 The National Parks Photography Project General Information 4 Cabinet of Curiosities 5 Amber Secrets: Feathers from the Age of Dinosaurs 6 Wildlife Photographer of the Year 7 Tourmaline Treasures 8 Out of the Amazon: Life on the River 9 La Virgen De Guadalupe: Empress of the Americas 10 - 11 Burke Baker Planetarium 12 - 13 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre 14 - 15 HMNS at Sugar Land 16 Cockrell Butterfly Center HMNS Museum Store 17 Wiess Energy Hall 2016 HMNS Gala 18 For Teachers 19 George Observatory Travel with HMNS 20 - 21 Just For Kids 22 - 23 Events Calendar HMNS After Dark Special Events Snapshot GET CONNECTED TO HMNS WWW.HMNS.ORG Natural.Science

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Members of the Museum’s young professionals group—HMNS Catalysts—receive free admission to Mixers & Elixirs, plus exclusive Catalysts social events and discounted tickets for a friend.

Visit www.hmns.org/catalysts for membership info and event listings.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS EVENT Cinco De Mayo and La Virgen de Guadalupe Thursday, May 5, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Ages 21 and up only. Call (713) 639-4629 to reserve your tickets and to join the HMNS Catalysts.

Many thanks to the 2016 Young Professionals Partner, Occidental Petroleum Corporation!

7 - 10 p.m.

21 and up only Tickets $25, Members $12, FREE for HMNS Catalysts Members Mixers and Elixirs is back for the summer with live music, food trucks, cash bars and intelligent nightlife with a twist.

June 17 – On the Dancefloor July 15 – Groupo Ka-Che Aug 5 – Electric Circus

WORLD TREKKERS WORLD TREKKERS: AUSTRALIA Friday, June 3, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

We’re heading off to Australia. But no need to pack your bags—HMNS brings the world to you with World Trekkers! This family event features live entertainment, face painting, a balloon artist, crafts, activities and more.

59 national parks. American photographer Mark Burns chose to present this collection of images in timeless black and white as a bridge back to the past century.

Honoring the important role that the visual image has played in the history and creation of America’s national parks, this special photography exhibition features one iconic photograph from each of America’s

The National Parks Photography Project will be on display, free with Exhibit Hall admission. This exhibiton is in conjunction with the giant-screen film National Parks Adventure 3D (page 12).

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The National Parks - America's Cathedrals of Nature” Mark Burns, Photographer Tuesday, June 21, 6:30 p.m.

Following the presentation, the audience will be invited into the exhibition with photographer Mark Burns.

GENERAL INFORMATION MAIN CAMPUS

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday through Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Memorial Day Weekend: May 28-30 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Summer Hours: May 31 - August 21 Daily: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Permanent Exhibit Halls and the Planetarium FREE after 2 p.m. on Thursdays, and after 3 p.m. during holiday and summer hours. Check our website for film schedules and special closures.

ADVANCE PURCHASES

(713) 639-4629 Monday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Credit cards only. Handling fee for phone orders only. Online at www.hmns.org

MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS (713) 639-4616, TTY (713) 639-4687 e-mail: membership@hmns.org

GEORGE OBSERVATORY PARKING GARAGE

Member $5, nonmember $10, all others $20

FIELD TRIPS

www.hmns.org/fieldtrips e-mail: fieldtrips@hmns.org (713) 639-4659

SPECIAL SERVICES

Call (713) 639-4629. Wheelchairs provided at no cost, subject to availability.

MEMBER TICKETS

Membership level determines the number of discounted tickets you may purchase: Individual, Student & Senior, 1; Dual, 2; Family level & above, 2 adults & 4 children.

SPECIAL EVENTS RENTAL (713) 639-4749

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Museum Parties for Main Campus and Sugar Land (713) 639-4773; Challenger Birthday Mission at the George Observatory (281) 242-3055.

(281) 242-3055 www.hmns.org/observatory Located in Brazos Bend State Park.

Park entrance fee: $7 per person; free for ages 12 & under. S

SUGAR LAND (281) 313-2277 www.hmns.org/sugarland 13016 University Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77479

HOURS OF OPERATION

Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: noon to 5 p.m.

Memorial Day: May 30 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Summer Hours: May 28 - August 21 Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: noon - 5 p.m.

SPECIAL EVENTS RENTAL (281) 313-2277, x. 101

www.hmns.org/visit

(713) 639-4629 www.hmns.org 5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030

H M N S T H E N AT I O N A L PA R K S P H O T O G R A P H Y P R O J E C T • G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N

The National Parks Photography Project Celebrating the Centennial 1916 - 2016 June 17 - September 28, 2016

HMNS CABINET OF CURIOSITIES www.hmns.org/exhibits

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DISTINGUISHED LECTURE Museums exist to inspire people to wonder and to facilitate creative thought. Given our curious natures and our innate desire to collect, it is no wonder that the grand modern museum has its humble roots firmly planted in the privately-owned collections of extraordinary objects from the past.

These collections, called cabinets of curiosity, first became popular in the Renaissance and reached their pinnacle of popularity in the Victorian Era. These collections of extraordinary natural and manmade objects were displayed in cabinets with many compartments, each filled with “treasures” reflecting man’s desire to find his place within the larger context of nature and the divine.

In the fullness of time, and as the collections evolved and grew in importance, they were acquired by noblemen, gentlemen and royalty.

The collections were then integrated into larger collections, becoming so immense as to occupy entire rooms.

Many of these collections were eventually institutionalized and became the first public museums.

As an homage to its own history, the Houston Museum of Natural Science will present an interpretation of the cabinet of curiosity.

Visitors will have the unique opportunity to peruse various wonderful and peculiar objects up close and personal. This is an especially good opportunity to expose children to the history of museums and collections.

Any parent who has emptied their children’s pockets of rocks, sticks and feathers can attest to the natural penchant children have for collecting.

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity for discovery!

“They Had to Shoot the Bear: The Story of Charles Wilson Peale and America’s First Museum” Nicole Temple, HMNS Tuesday, June 14, 6:30 p.m.

This lecture includes a tour of the Museum’s fantastical Cabinet of Curiosities.

TAXIDERMY CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS Saturday, May 21 Small Birds: 9 a.m. - noon Rabbits: 2 - 5 p.m.

Tickets $265 per session, Members $235 per session.

Under the instruction of licensed taxidermist Mickey Alice Kwapis, you will transform a bird or rat into a beautiful taxidermy piece, as well as learning the fundamentals of ethical taxidermy. The class fees are inclusive of all supplies needed. Participants must be at least 15 years of age. Minors must be accompanied by a parent.

The lizard specimens in this exhibition were included in important scientific research and could not be unveiled until the paper was published. Dr. Juan Diego Daza of Sam Houston State University was the lead author on the study.

Now on display for the first time, these 99-million-year-old vertebrates help to fill in a detailed picture of an ancient forest teeming with life.

Skink-like lizards and geckos are featured in the collection. Scales and soft tissues are exquisitely preserved, including pigmentation on some areas.

One lizard specimen shows an odd

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middle-forked-tongue projection, unlike any previously described species. The geckos also show perfectly preserved toe pads adapted for climbing trees— just like geckos living today.

Among the most striking specimens is a tiny chameleon, the oldest ever discovered. Although the specimen does not show the opposable digits so well known in chameleons, a short and wide skull, large eyes and a short curved tail place it strongly in the chameleon family.

Additionally, the architecture of the mouth indicates that a signature characteristic of chameleons had already evolved at this early stage of development. This undeniable chameleon trait known as “ballistic feeding,” denotes how the tongue shoots out to capture insects. Together with the dozens of arthropods and feathers, the amber-preserved lizards illuminate a long-lost ecosystem that is really not so very different from today.

Amber Secrets: Feathers From the Age

www.hmns.org/exhibits

Fossils in amber feature some of the most exceptional preservation of ancient life. Small details often lost in the paleontological record are preserved with nearly life-like fidelity. Amber Secrets: Feathers From the Age of Dinosaurs features over 100 specimens of arthropods, feathers, and lizards encapsulated in Burmese amber— shown in public for the first time at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

CURRENTLY ON EXHIBITION

H M N S A M B E R S E C R E T S : F E AT H E R S F R O M T H E A G E O F D I N O S A U R S

© David Grimaldi, AMNH

of Dinosaurs will only be on view at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

ADULT CLASS & TOUR “Amber Workshop” Tuesday, June 28, 6 p.m.

Tickets $45, Members $35

Join paleontologist David Temple for an examination of these amazing natural time capsules. This amber workshop includes time in the Amber Secrets exhibition, the Morian Hall of Paleontology, and in the classroom where you will polish a piece of raw amber that will be yours to keep.

HMNS WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

EXHIBITION LAST DAY IS JUNE 5

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London

Wildlife Photographer of the Year showcases 100 award-wining photographs of the 2015 international contest, featuring awe-inspiring images from fascinating animal behaviour to breath-taking wild landscapes. On loan from the Natural History Museum in London, the Houston Museum of

Natural Science is proud to be selected as a host of the international tour that allows the exhibition to be seen by millions of people across six continents.

©Audun Rikardsen (Norway) Deep Sleeper

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Tuesday, May 17, 6 p.m.

www.hmns.org/exhibits

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©Klaus Tamm (Germany) Wings of Summer

©Petr Bambousek (Czech Republic) Reflection in Black

©David Doubilet (United States) Turtle Flight

Compounded with elements such as aluminum, iron, manganese, magnesium, sodium, lithium, titanium or potassium, a tourmaline is a

crystalline boron silicate mineral. These varying metallic elements create the exciting, vivid colors of tourmalines— the widest range of color of any gem.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is “Rose of Itatiaia” tourmaline from the Jonas Mine in Minas Gerais, Brazil.

This stunning work of nature is on loan from Qatar Museums, Doha, Qatar.

On display under one roof for a limited time, the collection includes

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Tuesday, May 31, 6 p.m.

www.hmns.org/exhibits

An intimate “jewel-box” exhibition of the world’s finest naturally crystallized tourmalines is on display for a short time in Houston. This exclusive special exhibition will only be on display at HMNS in the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals.

masterpiece specimens from the most famous mines in the world.

These include the international locations of Paprok Region of Afghanistan, Anjanabonoina region of Madagascar, Pedeneira Mine in Brazil, Malkhan Mine in Russia, and Alto Ligonha region of Mozambique.

American specimens hail from Maine’s Mount Mica and California’s Stewart and Tourmaline Queen Mine.

HMNS TOURMALINE TREASURES

TOURMALINE TREASURES NOW ON EXHIBITION

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CUR R ENTLY ON EX HIBITION HMNS OUT OF THE AMAZON: LIFE ON THE RIVER

THE ENAWENÊ NAWÊ While researching the Enawenê Nawê people in preparation of our Out of the Amazon exhibit, HMNS curator of anthropology Dr. Dirk Van Tuerenhout came across a website, run by UNESCO, that contained a video showing a ritual performed by the Enawenê Nawê people wearing a neck ornament like one in the Museum’s Amazonia collection.

Dr. Van Tuerenhout contacted UNESCO to request permission to use this video in the exhibition. Much to his delight, this was UNESCO’s reply: We are pleased to respond positively to your request to use the video of the element entitled ‘Yãkwa, the Enawenê Nawê people’s ritual for the maintenance of social and cosmic order,’ inscribed on the List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. We confirm that your request is in line with the priorities of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, particularly, in terms of raising awareness of the importance of intangible cultural heritage. It is therefore with pleasure that we grant you the right to use the video exclusively for the exhibition prepared by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

www.hmns.org/exhibits

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The installation of the video documentation of the yãkwa ceremonial ritual in Out of the Amazon: Life on the River is a remarkable way the Museum was able to present the objects on display in their proper context, and give credit to the real stars of the show—the Enawenê Nawê people.

Out of the Amazon: Life on the River features selected works from the Museum’s Amazonia collection, celebrated as one of the best and most extensive in the world. This exhibition was organized by Adam Mekler, curator of HMNS’ vast ethnographic Amazonia collection.

Neck ornament, worn by men during the yãkwa ritual.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Wednesday, June 1, 6 p.m.

NOW ON EXHIBITION THROUGH SEPTEMBER 5

They both hailed from a city in Flanders, Ghent, and both spoke Flemish. There are even indications that these two men were related.

Charles V ruled over a vast empire on which “the sun never set,” and Pedro de Gante paved the way for Christianity in the New World.

When in 1522 Pope Adrian VI issued a bill, urging people to “freely go to the Indies to introduce the Catholic faith to the indigenous people,” Pedro de Gante and two other humble Flemish missionaries heeded the call. They arrived in 1523, a year before the famous “Twelve Franciscan Apostles” from Spain.

Pedro de Gante dedicated the last 50 years of his life to his mission in

Translation services for La Virgen de Guadalupe: Empress of the Americas are generously supported by Trini and O. C. Mendenhall Foundation.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Historical View of Guadalupan Faith, Origin and Development” Ana Rita Valero de Garcia Lascurain, Ph.D. Tuesday, May 10, 6:30 p.m.

The apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe took place in the vicinity of the Sierra de Guadalupe during December 1531. Anthropologist Dr. Ana Rita Valero de Garcia Lascurain, director of the historical archives at the College of San Ignacio de

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Photo by Michele Whisenhunt

SPECIAL EVENT Virgen de Guadalupe Procession Sunday, May 8, 6:30 p.m.

The vibrant troupes of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston’s Our Lady of Guadalupe Association will perform a special Mother’s Day procession in honor of the Holy Mother with music, dancing, elaborate costumes and Aztec feather headdresses.

Live commentary will describe the symbolism unique to each troupe and traditions of Guadalupana processions.

Tickets $25, Members $15.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Tuesday, June 28, 6 p.m.

www.hmns.org/exhibits

Two figures stand out in the history of early 16th century Spain: Emperor Charles V and Pedro de Gante. These two individuals—one a worldly leader, the other a Franciscan—had many things in common: place of birth, language, family ties and involvement in the New World, specifically Mexico.

Pedro de Gante founded San Jose de los Naturales, the first European school in the Americas. He was the first to teach the indigenous peoples how to read and write, sing and play musical instruments. An engraving in Diego Valadés' Rhetorica Christiana shows a man pointing to a framed image, surrounded by standing and seated students. He is identified as “F[ray] Petrus de Ga[n]te,” teaching his students “everything” (discunt omnia).

Loyola Vizcaínas in Mexico City, will describe the political, economic and social environment before the Spanish conquest and the historical elements which incited the miracle of the 16th century. Valero will also trace the development and expansion of the Guadalupe fervor.

HMNS LA VIRGEN DE GUADALUPE: EMPRESS OF THE AMERICAS

Brother Pedro de Gante instructing Indians on the use of European tools, from Diego Valadés, ‘Rhetorica Christiana’

Mexico. His many accomplishments include the authorship of the Doctrina Christiana (on display in our exhibit), one of the first books printed in Mexico.

He also produced one of the first catechisms for use in the New World.

This work, known as the Catecismo de la doctrina cristiana con jeroglíficos, para la enseñanza de los indios de México, used images rather than words to convey aspects of the Gospel.

H M N S B U R K E B A K E R P L A N E TA R I U M www.hmns.org/planetarium

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Dark matter connecting to visible matter in Dark Universe.

The Burke Baker Planetarium’s new show Dark Universe celebrates discoveries about structure and history of the Universe and our place in it. It is a dark and mysterious show with dark referring to what we know must be there, but we cannot see—matter and energy that are not directly detectable by light of any wavelength.

Dark energy is an unknown form of energy that is everywhere and accelerates the expansion of the Universe. The term was invented to explain observations indicating that the universe is expanding at an accelerating rate. We gave it a name, but really do not know what it is.

Dark matter has also not been directly observed in any wavelength, but its

The expanding Universe from Dark Universe.

existence and properties are inferred from gravitational effects on the motions of visible matter.

Astronomers think that the total massenergy of the Universe contains 4.9% ordinary matter, 26.8% dark matter and 68.3% dark energy. Thus, what we see and understand about our universe is less than 5% of what is actually there.

As a matter of fact, the great majority of ordinary matter in the universe is also unseen, since visible stars and gas inside galaxies and clusters account for less than 10% of the ordinary matter than we know exists.

To say astronomers are in the dark would be a huge understatement. Come “see” Dark Universe in the new Burke Baker Planetarium to be immersed in the mysteries of the cosmos.

MAKE SPACE FOR THE FUTURE: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Thank you to the generous donations that made it possible to build the best planetarium in the Universe at HMNS. The Friedkin Group Houston Endowment The Radoff Family The Brown Foundation, Inc. The Burke Baker, Jr. Family Kathrine G. McGovern/McGovern Foundation Hamill Foundation Dr. Dale and Eleanor Brown Dr. Stephen D. Brown Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation Go-Dome Patricia Reiff/E-Planetarium

DISTINGUISHED LECTURES Presented Dr. David Kring, Ph.D. Sponsored by The Lunar Planetary Institute “Lunar Exploration, A Captivating Science” Tuesday, May 24, 6:30 p.m.

ALSO SHOWING IN TRUE8K™

H M N S B U R K E B A K E R P L A N E TA R I U M

“Asteroid Day 2016 Threat of Impact Update” Thursday, June 30, 6:30 p.m.

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www.hmns.org/planetarium

Films and showtimes may change. Please visit www.hmns.org

WORTHAM GIANT S H M N S W O R T H A M G I A N T S C R E E N T H E AT R E

Sponsored by The H

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

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NATIONAL PARKS ADVENTURE 3D A 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

NOW SHOWING

The U.S. National Park Service turns 100 years old in 2016. National Parks Adventure celebrates this significant milestone by taking audiences on the ultimate off-trail adventure into America’s awe-inspiring great outdoors. This awe-inspiring visual and musical journey that reminds us of America’s great natural heritage is narrated by Academy Award®-winner Robert Redford and captured in full glory with IMAX 3DS cameras. National Parks Adventure is a MacGillivray Freeman film presented by Expedia, Inc. in association with Brand USA and Subaru.

DINOSAURS ALIVE 3D

NOW SHOWING Audiences will journey with some of the world’s preeminent paleontologists as they uncover evidence that the descendants of dinosaurs still walk—or fly—among us. Through the magic of scientifically accurate, computer-generated animation, these newly discovered creatures—along with some familiar favorites—will come alive… in a big way! Major funding for Dinosaurs Alive is provided by the National Science Foundation.

PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF ALL WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN FILM TICKETS HELP FURTHER TH

g for current schedule and more information about each film.

SCREEN THEATRE

Hamill Foundation.

LAST DAY IS JUNE 5 Narrated by renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean 3D brings to the stunning giant 3D screen a breakthrough look at a secret world within the ocean. This little-known world is perhaps the biggest story of all—that the smallest life in the sea is the mightiest force on which we all depend.

This film is supported by the Hamill Foundation.

OPENING JULY 1

H M N S W O R T H A M G I A N T S C R E E N T H E AT R E

SECRET OCEAN 3D

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May 27 - Labyrinth (1986) June 10 - Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) June 24 - Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)

Since September 1989, more than 14 million students, families, seniors and Museum members have enjoyed the Wortham IMAX®/Giant Screen Theatre. Thank you for your continued support! Our six-story giant screenis the first and largest in Houston. By purchasing tickets to HMNS’ Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, you not only enjoy an immersive and ultimate theater going experience; you also support our mission to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone.

HE HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE’S NONPROFIT MISSION. YOUR SUPPORT COUNTS!

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

Our annual summer Hollywood blockbuster series kicks off Memorial Day weekend. See our website for the complete summer lineup.

H M N S H M N S AT S U G A R L A N D

HMNS AT S U

www.hmns.org/sugarland

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SPECIAL EXHIBITION THROUGH MAY 15 You’re a caterpillar. Go earn your wings!

Shrink down into the undergrowth to become one of the most extraordinary creatures on Earth. You’ll enter the interactive, life-size maze through the huge monarch caterpillar tunnel, then become a caterpillar and find your way through a secret, wild world as grass and leaves tower above your head. But beware and choose your path wisely!

Adventure through the leaves, learn how to move like a caterpillar, discover an ant that reaps the reward of an unusual friendship, then transform into a butterfly and take flight on the minizip line! Together, families will explore this interactive experience and learn the surprising challenges butterflies face every day.

U GAR L AND

Examine how force affects structures, but with a twist—colored plastic bricks, plus magnetic, wood and plastic building tools. Construct a tower as tall as you can make it, balance a crane with long, long arms, build a bridge to span a great distance, or reinforce a

pyramid to give it enough strength to withstand time. Similar to Block Party at our Hermann Park location, but with our own Sugar Land twist!

Block Party, Too will feature a GameZone, where kids (and adults!) can let their imaginations run wild with games, both classic and new. With a separate play area for toddlers, kids of every age will find something to love in our new space for open play and exploration. You’ll want to return again and again. Don’t miss out on this cool, indoor summer fun!

HANDS-ON SCIENCE DISCOVERY Microscope Lab Earth Science Hall Bring your own “discovery” from home for examination in our upgraded microscope bar! Visit www.hmns.org/ sugarland for details about summer Life under the Microscope events.

You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for things both large and small!

FAMILY EVENT End of School Celebration and Carnival!

Thursday, June 2, noon - 3 p.m.

Kick off summer break with your friends at our exclusive special event featuring activities, crafts, pizza, yummy goodies to munch on, and the premiere of Block Party, Too—you can be the first to experience this summer “blockbuster” exhibition! Tickets are $5 plus admission. Regular museum entry ticket purchase required for non-members.

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www.hmns.org/sugarland

No matter how big or small the structure, the physics of force work the same way. Take a closer look at principles of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) in Block Party, Too, a family-friendly hands-on exhibit at HMNS at Sugar Land.

H M N S H M N S AT S U G A R L A N D

Special Exhibition opening June 2

TOO!

H M N S C O C K R E L L B U T T E R F LY C E N T E R • M U S E U M S T O R E www.hmns.org/butterflycenter

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a sunbath, which usually turns into a photo session with patrons.

Do you love nature, especially plants and insects—and maybe iguanas? Would you like to work outdoors during the summer, but find it too hot?

Ecoteens apply in the fall to work the following summer. Many of them return over and over again, and even come back as paid assistants for Museum summer camps. Some have become full-time professional staff after graduation.

If pay is not important, there are several paths to working here in our tropical paradise!

The Garden Club of Houston has underwritten a summer internship in horticulture for college students at the Cockrell Butterfly Center for over 15 years. And this year, a second internship with an entomological focus has been added. By caring for plants, raising butterflies, maintaining the insect zoo, helping with outreach programs, and more, the interns experience a broad hands-on introduction to what we do at the Butterfly Center, and have a lot of fun.

like to think that their Butterfly Center experience helped get them there.

Texas A&M, Sam Houston State, Stephen F. Austin, Rice and HCC are among the alma maters of our intern alumni. Many return to help out during the holidays or for the plant sales, and several of whom have gone on to great jobs in the field after they graduate—we

The Museum’s Moran Ecoteen program allows high school students interested in insects the opportunity to show and tell insects to patrons in and around the Butterfly Center. Some of the Ecoteens are keen in “iguana wrangling”—taking our resident iguana Charro out for

Finally, adults with a flexible schedule can volunteer in the Cockrell Butterfly Center, either behind the scenes helping staff with various duties, or as a docent.

Docent is not a familiar word to many people. From the Latin “docere,” it means to lead or to teach.

Docents in the Butterfly Center enhance the visitors’ experience by sharing their love and knowledge of various aspects of our exhibit, usually helped by some hands-on items such as large insects, dead butterflies, hostplants to lure in egg-laying butterflies, etc. Many of the Butterfly Center docents have been enriching our visitors’ experience in the rainforest for many years. For more information on volunteer opportunities, contact volunteering@hmns.org.

HMNS MUSEUM STORE Leave the labels to the mall.

Whether you want to show your geek pride or get Dad the coolest t-shirt, check out the best in fashion you won’t find en masse at museumstore.hmns.org.

WIESS ENERGY HALL ONLINE TRAINING: ENERGY 101

A: Take advantage of Wiess Energy Hall Online!

WIESS ENERGY HALL 3.0 Better. Stronger. Faster!

Electrifying changes are happening to the Wiess Energy Hall! A $40 million renovation is underway to relocate the exhibition to the fourth level of the Dan L Duncan Family Wing, upgrade its content and incorporate completely new components! The hi-tech, 30,000 square-foot Wiess Energy Hall 3.0 is slated to open late 2017.

The current Wiess Energy Hall’s last day for visitors is May 31, 2016.

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A discount to attend “An Overview of the Energy Industry” at HMNS is included with the purchase of the online course. Available at www.energy101training.com.

2016 H M NS GA LA 2016 HMNS GALA Olé! A Night in Old Mexico HMNS thanks Gala Chairs Joella and Steve Mach and Honorary Chairmen Randa and Charlie Williams for their hard work on the 2016 Museum Gala on March 5. This year’s event, Olé! A Night in Old Mexico, raised more than $800,000 to provide essential financial support for the Museum’s exhibitions, educational programs and operations.

www.hmns.org/wiess

Help us surge forward with this remarkable, energizing transformation by making a gift today. For naming opportunities or to donate call Cindy Geiser at (713) 639-4778 or visit www.hmns.org/give.

This online course offers an extended look into the world of oil and gas, including hydrocarbon formation, geology, drilling, refining, products, transportation, distribution and energy alternatives. The program is ideal for people new to the industry and those seeking a comprehensive overview about how the industry works.

HMNS WIESS ENERGY HALL • 2016 HMNS GALA

Q: What to do to fuel your energy knowledge while Wiess Energy Hall 3.0 is in the works?

MORE INFO FOR ALL WORKSHOPS AND OVERNIGHTS AT 713-639-4629 OR WWW.HMNS.ORG.

FOR

TEACHERS WEEKDAY

LABS

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

Coming to HMNS for a field trip? Try one of our Weekday Science Labs.

These self-contained investigations feature Museum specimens, artifacts and laboratory equipment. Each lab is one hour long and includes admission to the Museum’s permanent exhibit halls.

www.hmns.org/education

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EDUCATOR GUIDE IS YOUR TICKET TO WIN! Each month during the 2015-2016 school year, we will give away two tickets to our permanent exhibit halls in a random drawing to a teacher who has submitted a picture of the calendar open to the current month.

Pictures of your #educatorguide may be submitted by tagging @HMNS on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, or by emailing educatorevent@hmns.org.

Winners of each monthly drawing will be announced in the educator e-newsletter.

LABS ON DEMAND Need help with a TEKS objective?

Want a lab experience for your field trip? Each lab is tailored to your grade level.

Topics Available: Chemistry, Force and Motion, Electricity, Light and Optics, Magnets, Storm Science, Ancient Egypt, Cells, Earth Science, and Dissection. $200 per presentation (maximum 25 students), plus $75 travel fee for onsite presentations.

GT WORKSHOP “Differentiating with the Museum” June: 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 21, 22, 28, 30 August: 1, 2, 4 $60 per educator

Available at HMNS in Hermann Park and HMNS at Sugar Land. Capacity is 25 students per lab. Cost per lab is $165 - $200. Visit www.hmns.org/ weekdaylabs for the Weekday Lab schedule for the 2015-2016 school year.

Enhance your classroom strategy with tons of ready-to-implement activities and techniques. With dynamic presenters, engaging sessions, and the whole world of HMNS to explore, this is a workshop like no other.

Receive six hours of TAGT-approved credit or a 6-hour update credit. Call (713) 639-4659 to register.

MAY LAB TOPICS

OUTREACH PROGRAMS

Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 “Beetlemania” - Adults know there are only 4 Beatles (6 if you count Pete Best and Stuart Sutcliffe), but did you know there are almost 400,000 described beetle species? Come Together to study A Day in the Life of the most popular insect Across The Universe.

Bring the Museum to Your Classroom!

Earth Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Landforms: Part 2” - In the second series of our Landforms lab, we’re examining waterways. Follow our water from spring to shore!

ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Pressure” - Lift, crush and hover with the amazing power of air pressure.

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOPS “Forensics in the Classroom” Tuesday, May 3, 5 p.m. $30 per educator Popular culture meets natural science with high student interest. Come learn about how you can incorporate simple forensics into your classroom to engage students in science. Participants receive 3 hours of CPE credit. Dinner is provided. Adults only.

Aligned to grade-level TEKS objectives, pricing ranges from $100 $625. Presentations last 30 - 45 minutes, and multiple presentations may be scheduled in a day.

Extended day, weekend and evening scheduling is also available. Special Science Night activity station packages are also available.

For more information and scheduling: www.hmns.org/outreach, outreach@hmns.org, (713) 639-4758.

Choose from these HMNS Outreach Programs: Bugs On Wheels Chevron Earth Science On Wheels ConocoPhillips Science On Stage Discovery Dome Docents To Go Science Start TOTAL Wildlife On Wheels

GEORGEOBSERVATORY

This May and June we will be able to enjoy Mars, Saturn and Jupiter in the evening sky. Come observe these magnificent other worlds.

Enjoy the observatory every Saturday evening until 11 p.m. Gift Shop, exhibits and Discovery Dome open at 3 p.m. Telescope tickets go on sale at 5 p.m. Viewing begins at dusk. Telescope Tickets: $7, Members $4; Discovery Dome Tickets $3, Members $2.50.

MEMBERS NIGHT

Friday, June 10, 8 - 10 p.m.

Free with paid park admission.

Enjoy an evening under the stars and planets at the George Observatory inside Brazos Bend State Park.

Expert astronomers are available to let Members look at a variety of celestial objects through the Observatory telescopes. Viewing is always weather dependent.

DIRECTIONS & ADMISSION Located in Brazos Bend State Park (park entrance fee: $7, kids 12 and under free). Directions are posted at www.hmns.org/observatory. Current observatory weather conditions can be accessed at www.weatherbug.com, zip code 77461. Entrance to park is not permitted after 9:30 p.m.

T R AV E L W I T H H M N S Total Solar Eclipse All-American Totality Casper, Wyoming August 19 - 22, 2017 On August 21, 2017, a solar eclipse comes to the US and HMNS is going to be in Casper, Wyoming! Casper gives the best chance of having the clearest sky on the eclipse path for optimal eclipse viewing. Our package—with private viewing area, private hotel with all meals included, and experienced astronomy team—guarantees that your

eclipse experience will be both exciting and hassle-free.

Members-Only Registration through May 31, 2016 If space is still available, nonmembers may register starting June 1, 2016.

Currently at 75% capacity, the limited space is limited and filling quickly.

Make your reservation deposit today to secure your spot.Complete trip itinerary and registration information is posted at www.hmns.org/travel.

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www.hmns.org/observatory

Mars and Saturn will be near opposition, meaning they will be close to Earth and we can see their iconic features with the telescopes. Jupiter will be getting lower in the western sky and will continue to give us beautiful views. In addition to the planets, the summer Milky Way will be starting to be visible along with all the beautiful objects within it. This time of year, stargazing is at its best.

SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE

H M N S G E O R G E O B S E R VAT O R Y

IT’S PLANET SEASON!

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

6 1 0 2 R E M M U S

www.hmns.org/kids

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A summer of education and adventure awaits your child at HMNS. Our week-long, hands-on science camps are designed for children ages 6-12 and are held Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

For an additional weekly fee, care is available before camp begins each day 8-10 a.m., and after camp ends 3-5:30 p.m.

If you haven’t received your Xplorations catalog, please email Xplorations@ hmns.org or call the Education Department at (713) 639-4625.

Visit www.hmns.org/summercamp for complete camp info.

NEW TOPICS FOR 2016: Movie Monster Making Freeze Frame Nature’s Fury Star Warriors Academy II RETURNING FAVORITES: Junior Paleontologist Dino Claws and Shark Jaws Paleontology 101 Lego Robotics Advanced Lego Robotics Amazing Animals Master Spy Camp

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

Test for the Best Puzzler Wizard Science Academy Star Warriors Academy Extreme Machines

Early registration for Museum Members is now open. Registration for general public opens March 21. Register early to secure your camp spots!

HMNS, HERMANN PARK May 31-June 3 (4-day) June 6-10 June 20-24 June 27-July 1 July 11-15 July 18-22 August 1-5 August 8-12 HMNS, SUGAR LAND: June 6-10 June 13-17 June 27-July 1 July 5-8 (4 day) July 18-22 July 25-29 August 8-12

Let HMNS handle all of the birthday party planning for you—the decorations, entertainment, craft project, party favors, and party coordinator. Party packages begin at $350.

Themes: Dinosaur, Ancient Egypt, Butterfly/Bugs, Astronomy, Wildlife and Expedition, Block Party.

Deluxe packages also available: Partysaurus, Winged Wonderland, Galactic Gathering, Deluxe Wildlife, Deluxe Egypt. From decorations, entertainment, crafts, party favors and more—let us plan your party for you!

Go to www.hmns.org/scouts for the complete schedule and registration. For questions, contact scouts@hmns.org.

SUMMER SCOUT ACADEMY

HMNS, Hermann Park:

Attention Brownies, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Webelos, Bear Cubs and Wolf Cubs! Earn multiple badges in weeklong fun at HMNS. The wide variety of topics ensures there is something that interests your scout. Register now to reserve your spot! Visit www.hmns.org/ summerscouts or e-mail scouts@hmns. org for more information.

June 6-10, June 13-17 July 5-8 (4 day week), July 25-29 HMNS, Sugar Land: June 20-24 July 11-15 August 1-5

TEEN TECH

July 5 - 8 & July 25 - 28 A summer crash course for teens who want to know how to make things work!

Professional photography, programming 3D games, flying the new Planetarium, creative chemistry, digging up fossils, talking live to a ship at sea, even making toys for astronauts—all in four days.

Taught by curators and astronomy department programmers and designers.

Visit the www.hmns.org/teens for details.

LAST DAY IS AUGUST 7 Enter the Block Party construction zone! Draw upon the knowledge of architects and engineers, and then take what you learn and apply it to your own creation! Block Party, Too opens at HMNS at Sugar Land on June 2.

(More info on page 15.)

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www.hmns.org/kids

The Scout Program at HMNS continues to grow with the addition of classes for boys and girls. Scouts@HMNS offers a wide array of badges and classes for all ages of Boy and Girls Scouts on Saturdays throughout the school year.

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

Visit www.hmns.org/birthdays for complete party planning info, including optional add-ons.

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR • HMNS AFTER DARK

HMNS After Dark Wednesday, May 25 Museum open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Featuring all the permanent venues, special exhibitions, tours and even cash bars—take a stroll and enjoy a wonderful evening out at HMNS After Dark.

www.hmns.org/museumcalendar

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M AY EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOPS “Forensics in the Classroom” Tuesday, May 3, 5 p.m. (page 18)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Historical View of Guadalupan Faith, Origin and Development” Tuesday, May 10, 6:30 p.m. (page 9)

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS EVENT Cinco De Mayo and La Virgen de Guadalupe Thursday, May 5, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (page 2)

URBAN HARVEST GARDENING WORKSHOP “Constructing the Home Vegetable Garden” Wednesday, May 11, 10 a.m.

Saturday May 14, 9:30 a.m.

SPECIAL EVENT Virgen de Guadalupe Procession Sunday, May 8, 6:30 p.m. (page 9)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Tutankhamun: the Life, Death and Strange Afterlife of an Egyptian King” Wednesday, May 11, 6:30 p.m.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Wildlife Photographer of the Year Tuesday, May 17, 6 p.m. (page 6)

TAXIDERMY CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS Saturday, May 21 Small Birds: 9 a.m. - noon Rabbits: 2 - 5 p.m. (page 4) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Captivating Science of Lunar Exploration” Tuesday, May 24, 6:30 p.m. (page 11) HMNS AFTER DARK Wednesday, May 25 (page 22) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Tourmaline Treasures Tuesday, May 31, 6 p.m. (page 7)

For tickets to all events, visit www

www.rentthemuseum.com specialevents@hmns.org (713) 639-4749

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FAMILY EVENT HMNS at Sugar Land End of School Celebration and Carnival!

Thursday, June 2, noon - 3 p.m. (page 15) WORLD TREKKERS: AUSTRALIA Friday, June 3, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (page 2) URBAN HARVEST GARDENING WORKSHOP “Water!”

Saturday, June 4, 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday, June 8, 10 a.m.

FAMILY EVENT World Oceans Day Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

w.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Global Coral Bleaching Event: Causes, Consequences and What You Can Do" Adrienne Simoes Correa, Ph.D. Tuesday, June 7, 6:30 p.m.

MEMBERS NIGHT George Observaory Friday, June 10, 8 - 10 p.m. (page 19) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “They Had to Shoot the Bear: The Story of Charles Wilson Peale and America’s First Museum” Tuesday, June 14, 6:30 p.m. (page 4) EXHIBITION OPENS The National Parks Photography Project Friday, June 17 (page 3)

MIXERS & ELIXIRS On the Dancefloor Friday, June 17, 7 - 10 p.m. (page 2) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The National Parks - America's Cathedrals of Nature” Tuesday, June 21, 6:30 p.m. (page 3) ADULT CLASS & TOUR “Amber Workshop” Tuesday, June 28, 6 p.m. (page 5) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Asteroid Day 2016 – Threat of Impact Update” Thursday, June 30, 6:30 p.m. (page 11)

www.hmns.org/museumcalendar

JUNE BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Out of the Amazon: Life on the River Wednesday, June 1, 6 p.m. (page 8)

SPECIAL EVENT SNAPSHOT

HMNS can help make your upcoming special event truly unforgettable.

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR •

SPECIAL EV ENT SNAPSHOT

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Please deliver IMMEDIATELY!

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HMNS NEWS IS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.HMNS.ORG/MAGAZINE HMNS activities are supported in part by funds provided by the City of Houston.

HMNS News (ISSN 1556-7478) is published bimonthly by the Houston Museum of Natural Science, 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030. Issues are sent every other month as a benefit to all Museum members. HMNS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to preserve and advance the general knowledge of natural science, to enhance in individuals the knowledge of and delight in natural science and related subjects, and to maintain and promote a museum of the first class.

www.hmns.org/magazine

H M N S N E W S • M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 6 • V O L U M E 2 1 , N U M B E R 3

5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030

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