HMNS News March/April 2017 by Houston Museum of Natural Science

news MARCH / APRIL 2017 VOLUME 22, NUMBER 2 w w w. h m n s . o r g

OPENS FOR MEMBERS ONLY MARCH 10

H M N S 2 n d S AT U R D AY • N E W M E M B E R S H I P B E N E F I T S w w w. h m n s . o r g / m e m b e r

2nd

2nd SATURDAY Open Early for Members Only March 11 and April 8, 8 a.m. - noon Exclusively for members—explore the permanent exhibition halls before the crowds and enjoy arts and crafts and more. 2nd Saturdays now feature family programming from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Museum’s permanent exhibit halls are always free for Members. Member discounts to special exhibitions also apply for 2nd Saturday.

NEW MEMBERSHIP LEVELS!

NEW! HMNS CATALYSTS FAMILY - Looking for the perfect date night away from the kids? Upgrade to HMNS Catalysts Family level to enjoy all the benefits of a Family Level Membership for two adults and four children, plus quarterly adults-only events with other young professionals. Two Memberships in one!

! ! N EW N EW

$45 Number of people

$65

$85

$100

$125

Unlimited free admission to permanent exhibit halls

$115

$150

$195

$275

$550

2 adults + 4 kids

2 adults + 4 kids + 1 adult or kid

Discount admission to all ticketed special exhibitions, Cockrell Butter�ly Center, Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, and Burke Baker Planetarium Reduced rates for lectures, classes, travel and special events Discount at the Museum Store

Subscription to MuseumNews magazine Invitations to Members-only events Members-only ticket line

Early and discounted registration for Xplorations Summer Camps for children and grandchildren Two FREE tickets for admission to special exhibitions

Invitation for two to one President’s Circle event per year

HMNS Catalysts Young Professionals

$150 *Discoverer benefits value $72. Benefactor benefits value $152

NEW! Family Plus includes member benefits for two adults and four children, PLUS one additional adult or child. Voyager level is now called Family Flex and allows membership benefits for ten people. If you are a Voyager member, you will automatically be upgraded from a Voyager to a Family Flex membership. Discoverer and Benefactor level memberships now allow member benefits for ten people.

MEMBER ONLY EVENTS

Make the most of your Museum membership and enjoy these exclusive Members-only opportunities!

MEMBERS FIRST Members see it first! Members get exclusive access to new exhibitions before they open to the public, and now all major films opening in the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre. Beat the crowds and enjoy Friday afternoon film viewings of new films at HMNS with Members First.

Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Members First Weekend: March 10, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; March 11 - 12 Exhibition info is on page 8.

Housed in the newly-constructed Artie and Dorothy McFerrin Gallery in the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals. (Exhibition info is on page 12.)

NEW! MEMBERS FIRST FILM Amazon Adventure 3D Members First Film Screenings: Friday, April 21 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre show times at 1, 2, 3, 4 p.m. (More info on this new film on page 18.)

H M N S M E M B E R O N LY E V E N T S

Faberge: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise Members First Weekend: April 7 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

w w w. h m n s . o r g / m e m b e r

MEMBERS NIGHT

George Observatory Friday, April 21, 7:30 - 10 p.m.

Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Friday, March 10, 6 - 10 p.m.

Enjoy an evening under the stars 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, as well as privatelyowned telescopes. Viewing is always weather dependent. Free for members with paid state park admission. (More info on the George Observatory on page 21.)

Gladiator combat has evolved into one of the defining symbols of ancient Roman culture. Featuring original artifacts from the Colosseum never before exhibited outside of Italy, this large international exhibit illustrates the compelling and fascinating world of the gladiators. Admission requires a $12 exhibition ticket purchase. Exhibition info is on page 8.

HMNS IN THIS ISSUE • G HM E N ES RCAALT IANLFYOS RT M S A• T M I OI XN E R S & E L I X I R S • W O R L D T R E K K E R S

GENERAL INFORMATION

In 2 2nd Saturday Membership Benefits

HMNS MEMBERSHIP

HMNS AT SUGAR LAND

3 Member Only Events

MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS www.hmns.org/member Student, Senior, Individual, Dual, Family, Family Plus, Family Flex, Discoverer, Benefactor, President’s Circle HMNS Catalysts Individual, Dual and Family

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

4 General Information 5 Vanishing Arts: Highlights from the Beasley-Hwang Collection 6 HMNS Catalysts Mixers & Elixirs 7 Special Event Snapshot HMNS Museum Store 8-9 Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum 10-11 Mummies of the World: The Exhibition 12-13 Fabergé: Royal Gifts 14 Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State 15 Wildlife Photographer of the Year 16-17 Burke Baker Planetarium 18-19 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre

2 4

20-21 HMNS at Sugar Land

w w w. h m n s . o r g / i n t e r a c t

22 George Observatory 23 Morian Hall of Paleontology 24 Adult Education 25 Cockrell Butterfly Center 26-27 For Teachers 28-29 Just For Kids 30-31 Events Calendar Sensory Friendly Day HMNS Afer Dark GET CONNECTED TO HMNS

WWW.HMNS.ORG Natural.Science

@hmns

naturalscience1

hmns

MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT (713) 639-4616, membership@hmns.org

HMNS MAIN CAMPUS 5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030 (713)639-4629 www.hmns.org Open daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. SPRING BREAK HOURS: March 11 - 19: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EASTER DAY WEEKEND HOURS: April 14 - 15: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 16: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. SPECIAL CLOSURE: Closed on Saturday, March 4 for Museum Gala DIRECT ENERGY FREE THURSDAYS Permanent Exhibit Halls and Planetarium FREE after 2 p.m. on Thursdays, after 3 p.m. on March 16. SPECIAL SERVICES Wheelchairs are provided at no cost and subject to availability. Visit www.hmns.org/accessibility for information for visitors with autism spectrum disorders. TTY (713)639-4687 PARKING GARAGE Members received discounted rate. $5 All Day for Members, $20 All Day for Non-Members

FIELD TRIPS For all HMNS locations. www.hmns.org/fieldtrips fieldtrips@hmns.org (713) 639-4659

SPECIAL EVENT RENTALS hmns

blog.hmns.org

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

Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: noon to 5 p.m. Monday - Wednesday: field trips only SPRING BREAK HOURS: March 11, 13-18: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 12, 19: noon to 5 p.m. SPECIAL EVENT RENTALS www.hmns.org/sugarlandrentals sugarlandprograms@hmns.org (281) 313-2277, ext. 101

GEORGE OBSERVATORY Located in Brazos Bend State Park 21901 FM 762 Needville, Texas 77461 (281) 242-3055 www.hmns.org/observatory State park entrance fee is $7, kids 12 and under are free. Entrance to park is not permitted after 9:30 p.m. Private groups can schedule scout troop experiences, Friday night star parties, Discovery Dome planetarium shows, tours, Expedition Center missions, astronomy classes and birthday parties. Current observatory weather conditions can be accessed at www.weatherbug. com, zip code 77461.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES www.hmns.org/birthdays birthdays@hmns.org (713) 639-4646

Opens March 24 Free for Members

One example of the objects on display is a jaguar mask from Oaxaca, Mexico. Carved from a soft wood, and painted with very bright colors, it stands out because of a scene depicted on the top of the animal's head. It is a copy of a page from Pre-Columbian

codex, showing a group of warriors conquering a town (an event noted by the warriors' drawn weapons and the arrow piercing the hill). The three warriors approach the hill while rafting on water. One can see aquatic creatures, including a bird-fish, shells, and a crocodile just below these men. The imagery seen on the carving is a faithful rendering of what we can find in Codex Zouche-Nuttall, a document that belongs to the Mixtec culture. As such, this mask, probably carved no more than thirty years ago, bridges the

present with the Pre-Columbian past. It shows a great awareness of and pride in the carvers' past. Vanishing Arts: Highlights from the Beasley-Hwang Collection organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It will be on exhibition in Fondren Hall on the main floor March 24 - October 22, 2017. BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Tuesday, April 11, 6 p.m. Led by Dr. Dirk Van Tuerenhout HMNS Curator of Anthropology

www.hmns.org/vanishingarts

Over a period of several decades, two medical doctors studied Hepatitis B in Asia. This husband and wife team, Dr. Palmer Beasley and Dr. Lu Yu Hwang, took advantage of their travels abroad to collect artifacts wherever they went. Sadly, Dr. Beasley passed away in 2012, and the Museum received their collection shortly thereafter. The exhibition presents highlights from this collection, which includes objects from Taiwan, mainland China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Ethiopia, Mexico, the United States and Canada. Close to fifty objects are displayed, with photographs, and videos showcasing how they were made and used.

H M N S VA N I S H I N G A R T S : H I G H L I G H T S F R O M T H E B E A S L E Y- H W A N G C O L L E C T I O N

VANISHING ARTS:

Highlights from the Beasley-Hwang Collection

H M N S H M N S C ATA LY S T S • M I X E R S & E L I X I R S

HMNS would like to recognize the 2017 Catalysts Steering Committee:

www.hmns.org/catalysts

Looking to mix things up? Join HMNS' Young Professionals group, HMNS Catalysts, and cause a reaction!

HMNS Catalysts Young Professionals Thursday, April 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

HMNS Catalysts enjoy basic Museum member benefits, plus invitations to exclusive HMNS Catalysts social events, discounted tickets for a friend, and a free ticket to all HMNS Mixers & Elixirs. See page 2 for Catalysts membership options.

Enjoy complimentary drinks, light bites, crafts and more. Adults ages 21 and up. Free for Catalysts Members. Museum Members and HMNS Catalyst guests $15, General Public $25. Non-Catalyst tickets must be purchased at the Museum box office or (713)639-4629.

Allison Bland Brynn Bossart Autumn Breese Anna Caudle Ben Clemenceau Cary Corral Jessica L. Crutcher Anna Domning Christine Dubbert Emalie Vann Ghonima David Lach Sam Li Hunter Lockhart Tom Lockwood Dancy Lukeman Will McCallum Maggie McDaniel John McDougal Raj Natarajan Jacob Owolabi Christa Clarke Owolabi Sahil Patel Cassie Reid McGarvey Esther Rios Julia Russell Katy Sermas Patrick Sermas Charley Tauer Kelly Trier

St. Patrick’s Day Mixers and Elixirs Friday, March 17, 8 p.m. - midnight It’s your lucky day! Mixers and Elixirs is kicking off with our first ever St. Patrick’s Day Mixer. Follow the rainbow to HMNS and shamrock and roll at the smartest social scene in town. Doors open at 8 p.m. for the live band, dancing, cash bars and the city’s best food trucks. Mixers and Elixirs is for adults 21 and over. Tickets $25, HMNS members $15 and free for HMNS Catalysts. Visit www.hmns.org/mixers for more information and to purchase your tickets. Contact groupsales@hmns.org for group and corporate rates.

HMNS SPECIAL EVENT SNAPSHOT • HMNS MUSEUM STORE

SPECIAL EVENT SNAPSHOT HMNS can make your upcoming special event truly unforgettable. This evening Glassell Hall was transformed into an underwater lounge. www.rentthemuseum.com • specialevents@hmns.org • (713) 639-4749

HMNS MUSEUM STORE

museumstore.hmns.org

We're not saying logic isn't critical to science, but Albert Einstein's imagination led to great advances in theoretical physics and establishing quantum theory. Celebrate the birth of a genius on March 14 with our HMNS exclusive mug. March 14 is also celebrated internationally as Pi Day! (HMNS’ Pi Day Party in Sugar Land is listed on page 21.)

"Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere." — Albert Einstein (3.14.1879 - 4.18.1955)

H M N S G L A D I AT O R S : H E R O E S O F T H E C O L O S S E U M www.hmns.org/gladiators

Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Members First Weekend: March 10 - 12 Open to Public: March 13 Gladiators locked in mortal combat for the entertainment of the crowds in Romeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Colosseum. Today, gladiators are larger-than-life, immortalized by films. Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum takes us into the violent arena of the Colosseum and behind the scenes to the world of the gladiators. Learn how the lives of gladiators changed through time and how the search for gladiators expanded with the Roman Empire. The story is told through artifacts, scale models and multi-media. Gladiator combat has evolved into one of the defining symbols of ancient Roman culture. Featuring original artifacts from the Colosseum never before exhibited outside of Italy, this large international exhibit illustrates the compelling and fascinating world of the gladiators. This special exhibition explores the behind-the-scenes lives of the gladiators and the colossal stage upon which their fate was determined, the Colosseum. Theirs was a world of specialized training, discipline, regulation and peril, but also of hope of fame, redemption and even wealth and freedom. Original armor and related archaeological artifacts from the Colosseum and other Italian museums are included.

MEMBERS EVENT Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Friday, March 10, 6 - 10 p.m. Members only (More info on page 3.)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE www.hmns.org/lectures "Morituri te salutant. Life and Death in the Arena." Dirk Van Tuerenhout, Archaeologist Tuesday, March 28, 6:30 p.m.

“Secrets of the World’s First Gladiator Cemetery” David Jennings, Ph.D., Archaeologist Tuesday, April 4, 6:30 p.m. An accidental find in York reveals the world's best preserved Roman gladiatorial burial ground. Archaeologists unearthed a staggering 80 sets of

“Roman Legionnaires – The Soldiers of the Roman Empire” John Keahey, Historian Tuesday, May 23, 6:30 p.m. Historian John Keahey, while in character, will explain each item of armor, weaponry and equipment of the typical Roman legionary soldier from year 1 to 300 A.D. The Roman auxiliary soldier, who was recruited from non-Roman tribe and could earn Roman citizenship through his service, will also be examined. The discussion will include the living conditions and daily lives of these soldiers.

In the spirit of the Roman love of spectacle and cuisine, culinary historian Merrianne Timko and Chef Luis Rubio of La Griglia have collaborated on a menu capturing the flavors of ancient Rome and the provinces from which many gladiators hailed.

SHELL EDUCATOR PREVIEW Tuesday, March 28, 4 - 7 p.m. (more info on page 26)

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR www.hmns.org/bts Tuesday, April 11, 6 p.m.

CULTURAL FEAST www.hmns.org/feasts “Gladiator Banquet - Roman Spectacle and Cuisine” Hosted at La Griglia Wednesday, April 19, 7 p.m. On the evening before spectacles were staged at the Colosseum, gladiators attended lavish banquets hosted by aristocratic and wealthy citizens. Fine, prepared foods were served at these lavish affairs—a contrast to the gladiators’ primarily vegetarian diet.

MEMBERS RECEIVE REDUCED ADMISSION!

www.hmns.org/gladiators

With roots going back to Ancient Greek history, the institution of Roman gladiators is one of the better known aspect of Ancient Roman society. HMNS curator of anthropology Dr. Dirk Van Turenhout will address their story, going beyond the gore and violence, and answer questions such as: What are the roots of gladiatorial combat? Who were these individuals? What was the function of gladiatorial games? What kinds of gladiators can we identify?

remains. Most were decapitated. Just a few years after the discovery, Dr. David Jennings, director of the York Archaeological Trust, will present exciting new DNA information about these combatants. A festive occasion will follow the lecture with Legio XIII, gladiator photo ops, and tasty Roman bites to sample. Co-sponsored by AIA, Houston Society.

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

Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum is organized by Contemporanea Projetti, srl and Expona in collaboration with the Colosseum, Rome. This exhibition is sponsored by HMW Entertainment. It will be on display at HMNS until September 4, 2017.

www.hmns.org/mummies 10

HMNS MUMMIES OF THE WORLD: THE EXHIBITION

Some specifically prepared to ensure preservation in the afterlife and others accidentally preserved by nature, Mummies of the World covers a wide array of human and animal remains. Among those preserved naturally is a so-called bog mummy of a woman. Found in Zweeloo, The Netherlands, this is one of the very few preserved human remains found in a bog environment. She lived in the 1st to 2nd century AD in the northern part of the country.

While a contemporary of the Roman Empire, she probably did not travel beyond her own community. Her lower arms and legs were shorter than normal; she was also quite hairy. Imagine this person walking around in her village around 150 AD. Mummies of the World: The Exhibition is on view on the main floor until May 29, 2017.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR www.hmns.org/bts Wednesday, May 10, 6 p.m.

HMNS MUMMIES OF THE WORLD: THE EXHIBITION

ON EXHIBITION THROUGH MAY 29

www.hmns.org/mummies

MEMBERS SAVE UP TO 60% ON TICKETS TO THIS SPECIAL EXHIBITION.

H M N S FA B E R G É : R O YA L G I F T S www.hmns.org/faberge

The New Artie and Dorothy McFerrin Gallery Opens in April with a Little Surprise The McFerrin Fabergé Collection will be presented in a new state-ofthe-art gallery in the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals. This new gallery is made possible by the generous underwriting of the Artie and Dorothy McFerrin Foundation. The first installation in the gallery is the new special exhibition Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise. Visitors will experience the design artistry and craftsmanship of the Fabergé workmasters in an intimate setting.

FABERGÉ:Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise

Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise Members First Weekend: April 7 - 9 Open to Public: April 10 Free for Members

Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise explores the international politics, diplomacy, economics and innovation in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Beginning with the magnificent crown jewels of Catherine the Great, the development of Peter Carl Fabergé’s techniques and inspiration are explored.

There are over 70 eggs in the McFerrin Collection including two other Imperial-sized eggs made for special clients: the Nobel Ice Egg (c. 1913) created for Emanuel Nobel (18591932), and the Kelch Rocaille Egg created for Barbara Petrovna Kelch and presented by her husband Alexander Ferdinandovich Kelch in 1902. Peter Carl Fabergé is known for equipping the Imperial Easter Eggs with a “surprise” inside for the recipient of the gift to find when he or she opens the egg. A surprise might be a realistic, jeweled figure, embellished picture frame with photo of a loved one, or perhaps the most cherished—a mechanical animal figurine.

Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It is the premiere exhibition for the Artie and Dorothy McFerrin Gallery in the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals. DISTINGUISHED LECTURE www.hmns.org/lectures “Fabergé Animals – Miniature Menagerie of Grandeur” Caroline de Guitaut, Royal Collection Trust Wednesday, April 5, 6:30 p.m.

www.hmns.org/faberge

One of the unique treasures displayed is a Fabergé piece inspired by a Scythian gold arm band dating to the 4th century BC. One of only four known today, Fabergé exhibited this piece at the 1882 Pan-Russian Exhibition in Moscow. In 1885 the House of Fabergé was named “Goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown.”

H M N S FA B E R G É : R O YA L G I F T S

Currently numbering over 600 pieces, the McFerrin Fabergé Collection is the largest private collection of Fabergé in the world—a treasure trove of objects reflecting the artistry of the Fabergé firm.

The highlight of Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise is the surprise for the Diamond Trellis Egg, an Easter gift from Tsar Alexander III to Tsarina Maria Feodorovna in 1892. This Imperial Easter Egg will be exhibited with its original surprise, a small jeweled mechanical elephant. The reunion of the two pieces is made possible by a loan from the British Royal Family’s art collection, the Royal Collection Trust. It is the first time the pieces have been seen together in over 80 years.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES www.hmns.org/bts Fabergé Artisan Demonstration and Tour of Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise Wednesday, May 10, 6 p.m. Faberge craftsmen innovated and perfected numerous gemstone-cutting and metalsmithing techniques. This evening several of these techniques— cabochon fashioning, stone faceting, stone carving, enameling, guilloche, chasing, repousse—will be demonstrated by artists of the Houston Museum of Natural Science Volunteer Guild known as the Rock Stars. In addition to artisan demonstrations, this evening includes a guided tour of the new exhibition Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise.

Photo Credit: Royal Collection Trust © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2015.

Also on display for the first time ever, the exhibition features the manuscript drafts of the surveys of the Texas-U.S. Joint Boundary Commission. Three different sheets, more than 14 feet wide, trace the Sabine River from its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico to Logan’s Ferry in the north, near present-day Logansport, Louisiana. A second set of maps follows the Boundary Commission survey in a straight line due north from west of Logan’s Ferry on the Sabine to the Red River. The boundaries established by these surveys were recognized when Texas entered the Union in 1845.

HMNS MAPPING TEXAS

FREE FOR MEMBERS

www.hmns.org/mappingtexas

Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State is a once-in-ageneration, collaborative exhibition covering nearly three hundred years of Texas mapping. The maps, dating from the sixteenth through the nineteenth centuries, document the birth of Texas, the evolution of the physical and political boundaries of the state and the rise of the Alamo and San Antonio Missions. More than forty rare maps will be displayed in this exhibition—many on public view for the first time.

For the first time ever, three of the most important maps from the “Father of Texas,” Stephen F. Austin, are brought together representing his contributions to the cartographic history of the state. Austin’s 1837 “Connected Map of Austin’s Colony, 1833–1837” is a prominent feature of Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State. This map depicts the original land grants issued within Austin’s Colony, which became the model for subsequent land ownership maps housed at the Texas General Land Office.

Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State is organized by the Texas General Land Office with special thanks to Frank and Carol Holcomb. Additional lenders to the exhibition are the Witte Museum in San Antonio and the Bryan Museum in Galveston. It will be on display at HMNS in the Hamill Gallery on the main floor through October 8, 2017. LECTURE AND TOUR www.hmns.org/lectures “Evening with the Collectors: Frank and Carol Holcomb, Mapping Texas” Thursday, March 30, 6:30 p.m. Frank and Carol Holcomb, of Houston, have been collecting maps since 1978. Their collection emphasizes color and rarity and consists of over 80 maps, dated between 1513 and 1904. These collected works cover the entire Western Hemisphere, with a primary focus on Texas and the United States. Nineteen maps from their world-class, private collection are on display at HMNS in this exhibition. These have been digitized by the General Land Office’s Save Texas History program to provide access to historians and the public. DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Soldiers of Early Texas“ John Keahey, Historian Tuesday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.

FREE FOR MEMBERS

This world-renowned exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, features 100 awe-inspiring images, from fascinating animal behavior to breathtaking wild landscapes.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2016 Competition is organized by the Natural History Museum and BBC Worldwide. It will be on view in Jones Gallery on the main floor through June 4, 2017.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the most prestigious photography event of its kind, providing a global platform that showcases the natural

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR

©Dhyey Shah (India) Golden Relic

©Ganesh H Shankar (India) Eviction Attempt

©Sandra Bartocha (Germany) Heart’s Delight

www.hmns.org/bts Wednesday, May 17, 6 p.m.

©Willem Kruger (South Africa) Termite Tossing

www.hmns.org/wpy

Now in its fifty-second year, Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the international leader in innovative visual representation of the natural world. This prestigious competition and resulting exhibition stimulates engagement with the diversity and beauty of the natural world and thrills audiences around the globe.

world’s most astonishing and challenging sights for over 50 years. Launched in 1965 and attracting 361 entries that year, today the competition receives over 42,000 entries from 96 countries highlighting its enduring appeal. This year’s 100 award-winning images will embark on an international tour that allows them to be seen by millions of people across six continents.

HMNS WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

FREE FOR MEMBERS

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

We Are Stars! Since opening in January, We Are Stars! became an instant hit. The zany characters and wacky animations of complex topics, like nuclear fusion, make the show enjoyable and educational for all ages. The humor ranges from subtle to slapstick, but the concepts are spot-on, providing a thoroughly understandable presentation of how the atoms in our bodies came to be.

www.hmns.org/planetarium

Starry Night Express 2017 Total Solar Eclipse Edition

through lunar mountain peaks seen in silhouette.

Starting in March, a new addition is coming to Starry Night Express. This show is narrated by a live planetarium operator who will include, in addition to the spring nighttime skies, a special daytime astronomical event—the Total Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017.

These tiny light sources are called Bailey’s Beads and they appear for only an instant at the beginning and again at the end of totality. By watching the whole sequence in detail, we see the distant mountain peaks and the red arching prominences left behind as the Sun’s bright photosphere disappears behind the Moon.

On this date, a solar eclipse will play across the United States. Many areas will see a partial event, but those lucky to be on the direct path will see a spectacular total solar eclipse when the Moon crosses directly in front of the Sun. Starry Night Express demonstrates how the Earth-Moon system works from three perspectives—from Earth, from the Moon, and from space. Perhaps the most dramatic moment when watching a solar eclipse is just before totality when sunlight shines

No one has seen an eclipse event from the Moon—until now, with the help of the Burke Baker Planetarium. The larger Earth sweeps in front of the Sun and covers it completely turning the lunar surface red. (Just as the Moon turns red in Earth’s sky at totality in a lunar eclipse.) From space, we see both the Moon moving in front of the Sun and the Moon’s shadow being cast on the Earth below.

Given its colorful 8K animations and joyful way of presenting complex content, this show works for preschoolers to college professors. We are Stars! is a show for all ages to enjoy and a great family experience for Spring Break.

ASTRONOMY LECTURE www.hmns.org/lectures

HMNS TRAVEL

“Mission: Mars - Steps toward the First Human Journey to the Red Planet” Pascal Lee, Ph.D. SETI, NASA, Mars Institute Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 p.m.

Total Solar Eclipse 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 21st century, as we achieve longer spaceflight missions, plan for deep space journeys, and work in extreme environments on Earth viewed as Mars “analogs.” Leading planetary scientist Dr. Pascal Lee will share the progress made around the world to achieve the first human voyage to Mars. In turn, he will examine the what, why, how, when, and who of the first human mission to Mars. Book signing of Mission: Mars, winner of the 2015 Prize for Excellence in children’s science, following lecture.

The first steps are already under way for the first human mission to Mars in

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

the best chance of having the clearest sky on the eclipse path for optimal eclipse viewing. This family-friendly trip—with private viewing area, private hotel with all meals included, and experienced astronomy team— can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages. Reserve today, space is limited. Itinerary and registration posted at www.hmns.org/travel.

www.hmns.org/planetarium

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

Visit www.hmns.org/giantscreen for showtim

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

In 2016 we celebrated a milestone at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The Wortham IMAX/Giant Screen Theatre has been educating and entertaining more than 15.5 million members, students, families and seniors for 27 years! Since we first brought the IMAX© technology to Houston in 1989 we have strived to upgrade your film experience including introducing the more immersive experience of 3D in 2007 and in 2012 we

brought you dynamic digital. Maybe you haven’t been in a while or would like to visit our giant screen theatre for the first time. Either way, we have the finest educational film experience to offer you. With the special geometry of our theater and the latest in film technology you will always feel as though you're immersed in the action. You're just not seeing the movie— you’re part of it.

AMAZON ADVENTURE 3D

MEMBERS FIRST: APRIL 21 OPENS TO PUBLIC: EARTH DAY, APRIL 22 Amazon Adventure tells the epic, true story of Henry Bates, the son of a sock maker, who risked his life in the perilous Amazon in the 1850’s and discovered the “beautiful proof” for the greatest explanation ever put forward for the development of life on Earth. As in any great detective story, audiences will experience the compelling clues Bates unearths in his major discovery of the phenomenon of mimicry, whereby certain animals adopt the look of others to help them deceive predators and gain an advantage to survive. Little known to the public, Bates made other crucial contributions to biology: identifying 8,000 species new to science. Adapting to the extremely challenging surroundings, Bates ventured further up the Amazon with his pet monkey and guitar, and formed close relationships with the native tribes, speaking 10 of their languages and adopting their hunting and living ways in his own battle to survive.

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

SCREEN THEATRE

mes and more information about each film.

DREAM BIG 3D NOW SHOWING

Dream Big is in partnership with the American Society of Civil Engineers, and is presented by Bechtel Corporation.

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

A film engineered to inspire—from the world’s tallest buildings to underwater robots and a solar car race across Australia, Dream Big celebrates the human ingenuity behind engineering marvels big and small, and shows how engineers push the limits of innovation in unexpected and amazing ways. Discover the inspiring stories of human grit and aspiration that reveal the compassion and creativity that drive engineers to create better lives for people and a more sustainable future for us all.

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

WILD AFRICA 3D EXTREME WEATHER 3D NOW SHOWING

Famed storm chaser and award-winning filmmaker Sean Casey takes you on a dramatic journey to places where few have gone before! Destinations include the edge of a 300-foot-tall calving glacier in Alaska, the front lines of massive wildfires in the Western United States, and directly in the path of deadly, yet mesmerizing, tornadoes in the plains.

NOW SHOWING

Come with us on a spectacular 3D ride across, over and through the magical realms of the most dramatic continent on Earth: Africa. Our guide though this enchanted kingdom is the sorcerer itself: water. Water crafts wild Africa, conjuring up life wherever it journeys. You’ll be plunged into fantastic places and meet amazing creatures. Discover the fascinating secrets of this enchanted kingdom. It’s an adventure where you will truly believe the real world is more extraordinary and awe-inspiring than any fiction.

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

www.hmns.org/sugarland

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

HMNS AT S U

U GAR L AND BLOCK PARTY, TOO! EXTENDED THROUGH MAY 7 REDUCED ADMISSION FOR MEMBERS!

Even the largest buildings are made up of small pieces when it comes down to it. You may not think about it, but no matter how big or small the structure, the physics of force work the same way. Take a closer look at force and other principles of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) in Block Party, Too! With a separate play area for toddlers, everyone will find something to love in our open play and exploration space. Don’t miss out! Block Party, Too! is sponsored by Siemens Analytical Products & Solutions. It has been extended through May 7, 2017.

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

Our popular family-friendly hands-on special exhibition, Block Party, Too! is growing! Children of all ages have found something fun to build and learn with and we’ve had many, many return visitors. Most popular of all has been the large locking blocks, so we’re adding something even bigger. Come check out our “new addition”—a block-based play system that allows for even more active, flexible, creative and mobile play on a larger than life-sized scale!

Indulge your inner geek with fun activities on this special date—3.14— duringSpring Break! Don’t miss Don Cooper’s talk on the intriguing math behind the Saturn V and Apollo projects. We’ll even have pi (with an “e”!) from the Proud Pie Food Truck. It’s a genius idea! Tickets $3. Regular Museum admission ticket purchase required for nonmembers Special Spring Break Hours, March 11 - 19 Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: noon to 5 p.m.

www.hmns.org/sugarland

Pi Day 3.14 Tuesday, March 14, 10 a.m. - noon

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

GEORGEOBSERVATORY

www.hmns.org/observatory

The best views and brightest stars can been seen from the HMNS George Observatory in Brazos Bend State Park.

MEMBERS NIGHT

in the gift shop. Viewing begins at dusk. Members receive discounted Telescope and Discovery Dome tickets.

SPRING BREAK EVENINGS TO OBSERVE

SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE!

VISITOR INFO

Bring the family to a star-studded Spring Break escape. In addition to our normal Saturday night hours, we have added observation hours on Tuesday and Friday. Enjoy Brazos Bend State Park during the daytime, then after dark, turn your eyes to the skies.

Enjoy the stellar views through a variety of large research grade Observatory telescopes every Saturday evening until 10 p.m. The three domed scopes plus individual volunteer telescopes are available to show off the evening skies. Gift Shop, exhibits and Discovery Dome open at 3 p.m. Telescope tickets available

March 11, 14, 17, 18 5 - 11 p.m.

Friday, April 21, 7:30 - 10 p.m. More info on page 3.

The George Observatory is located in Brazos Bend State Park. Park entrance fee is $7, kids 12 and under free. Directions are posted at www. hmns.org/observatory. Observing is always weather permitting. Current observatory weather conditions can be accessed at www.weatherbug.com, zip code 77461.

MORIAN HALL OF PALEONTOLOGY NEW ADDITION TO MORIAN HALL OF PALEONTOLOGY

This beautiful specimen was found in Solnhofen Lithographic Limestone of Bavaria, Germany by HMNS member and volunteer Shirley Smalley while on the recent HMNS Travel Program to Germany and Switzerland.

Dinosaur Excavation: The Black Hills of Wyoming with Peter Larson August 14 - 19, 2017 August 22 - 27, 2017 www.hmns.org/travel Could the fruits of your labor be displayed at the Museum? Yes! join a professional excavation led by legendary paleontologist Peter Larson of the Black Hills Institute. We are hoping for another museum-quality discovery to add to the HMNS collection. Reserve today, space is limited. Itinerary and registration information posted at www.hmns.org/travel.

She is pictured here with Martin Röper of the Solnhofen Museum who is holding the specimen and Raimund Albersdöerfer on the day of the discovery in September 2015. Shirley’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren recently came to see the display of what they call “mama’s big bug.”

News of HMNS’ “Jurassic James” made national attention after a recent Houston Chronicle article was picked up by the AP and was featured in several other papers, including The Washington Times.

Don’t miss his upcoming programs offered through the Adult Education Department. “Sex in the Fossil Record” Tuesday, April 25, 6:30 p.m. www.hmns.org/lectures One of the driving forces of Darwinian evolution is reproduction in all its forms. In this presentation, paleontologist James Washington will focus on the myriad of methods used to continue species by passing on genetic material from one generation to the next. You will learn of various pressures of sexual selection among animal classes, including courting and mating. Many examples will come from the HMNS paleontology collection. ”Paleo-Ecology Field Trip Jesse Jones Park” Saturday, April 15, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.hmns.org/aedclasses This offsite field workshop uses Jesse H. Jones Park as a classroom for an in-depth study of paleoecology with James Washington, who has visited this site for scientific observation for a decade. Washington utilizes in situ rocks, fossils, soils and flora to teach the connections between sedimentary rocks and the environments that create them. Participants will meet at the park and must be capable of trekking unpaved terrain for 2 hours. Minimum age is 15.

Photo Credit: Ken Groue

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle

www.hmns.org/travel

JURASSIC JAMES WASHINGTON

James Washington is a Museum staff trainer and guide, who also teaches paleontology and geology workshops for kids and adults. His matter-of-fact sense of humor and encyclopedic knowledge of dinosaurs and rocks makes him a favorite person to encounter on a trip to the Museum.

H M N S M O R I A N H A L L O F PA L E O N T O L O G Y

Recently added to the fossil gallery in the Morian Hall of Paleontology is this wonderful late Jurassic water strider (Chresmoda obscura). With its elongated legs and body, even a novice biologist can see the similarities to modern water striders, a.k.a. water skippers, pond skaters or Jesus bugs.

Albersdöerfer, a world-leading fossil preparatory who discovered and prepped many of the fossils in the Morian Hall, prepared both sides of the specimen which Smalley donated to the Museum. If the limestone matrix is split in the perfect plane, the fossil will be preserved on both pieces—a negative impression and a positive relief.

ADULT EDUCATION

H M N S A D U LT E D U C AT I O N

To register, visit www.hmns.org/adults or call (713) 639-4629.

www.hmns.org/adults

HMNS TRAVEL

DISTINGUISHED LECTURES

www.hmns.org/travel

www.hmns.org/lectures

Travel Night Northern Lights & Vikings Voyage: Iceland and Norway Tuesday, March 7, 6:30 p.m.

“Nutrition and Wild Orangutans: Insights into Human Health” Erin Vogel, Ph.D., Rutgers University Wednesday, March 1, 6:30 p.m.

Those who are interested in this March 15 - 26, 2018 trip will enjoy a film of the stunning aurora borealis with Dr. Carolyn Sumners, HMNS VP of Astronomy and Dr. Dirk Van Tuerenhout, HMNS Curator of Anthropology.

Photo credit: Aurora Borealis at Skjervøy - Naturfoto Jan R. Olsen

Those who register March 7-13, 2017 have first priority for cabin selection and receive a 600 NOK on board credit that can be used at the bar or for optional excursions. With nine nights above the Arctic Circle to spot the magnificent auroras dancing in the night sky, this trip is timed to also have ample daylight to enjoy the stunning scenery and explore historical sites. TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE: ALL-AMERICAN TOTALITY Casper, Wyoming August 19 - 22, 2017 limited space remains DINOSAUR EXCAVATION The Black Hills of Wyoming with Peter Larson August 14 - 19, 2017 August 22 - 27, 2017 limited space remains

DAY EXCURSIONS

www.hmns.org/excursions Paleo-Ecology Field Trip Jesse Jones Park Saturday, April 15, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (page 23)

Primate dietary ecologist, Dr. Erin Vogel, will discuss how information from diet, behavior, and physiology can help us understand how orangutans can shed light on the current obesity epidemic in modern day humans. Cosponsored by The Leakey Foundation. “Secrets from a Watery Grave: USS Houston and HMAS Perth” Alexis Catsambis, Ph.D. Naval History and Heritage Command Thursday, March 2, 6:30 p.m. The Japanese Imperial navy sank the USS Houston and the HMAS Perth during the Battle of Sunda Strait 75 years ago on March 1. Maritime archaeologist Dr. Alexis Catsambis of Naval History and Heritage Command will recount the story of in the battle and the efforts to preserve the physical and human remains at this sacred spot. Cosponsored by AIA, Houston Society and HMNS with support from Schlumberger. “Mission: Mars - Steps toward the First Human Journey to the Red Planet” Pascal Lee, Ph.D., SETI, NASA Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 p.m. (page 16) “Morituri te salutant. Life and Death in the Arena” Dirk Van Tuerenhout, Ph.D. Archaeologist Tuesday, March 28, 6:30 p.m. (page 9) “Evening with the Collectors: Mapping Texas” Frank and Carol Holcomb Thursday, March 30, 6:30 p.m. (page 14)

“Secrets of the World’s First Gladiator Cemetery” David Jennings, Ph.D. Archaeologist Tuesday, April 4, 6:30 p.m. (page 9) “Fabergé Animals – Cherished Figurines” Caroline de Guitaut Royal Collection Trust Wednesday, April 5, 6:30 pm. (page 13) “Evolution’s Bite: Teeth, Diet and How a Changing World Made Us Human” Peter Ungar, Ph.D., Anthropologist Tuesday, April 18, 6:30 p.m. Paleoanthropologist Peter Ungar will present how teeth—their shape, chemistry, and wear—reveal how we came to be and what might or might not be the most natural diet for humans. Dr. Peter Ungar is director of the Environmental Dynamics Program at the University of Arkansas. “Eye of the Storm: Archeology in the Midst of War in Syria” Drs. Giorgio Buccellati, Marilyn Kelly-Buccellati, Charles Stewart Thursday, April 20, 6:30 p.m. A team of archaeologists and the local stakeholders have successfully defended the Mesopotamian site of Urkesh from ISIS. It is the only foreign expedition that has remained active in Syria throughout the entire time of the war, and still is today. This evening's lecture will be presented by three distinguished experts: Dr. Giorgio Buccellati of UCLA’s Mesopotamian Lab, Dr. Marilyn Kelly-Buccellati of the Mozan/Urkesh Archaeological Project in Syria, and Dr. Charles Stewart of the Univ. of St. Thomas. Co-sponsored by Crossroads Cultural Center. “Sex in the Fossil Record” James Washington HMNS Staff Trainer Tuesday, April 25, 6:30 p.m. (page 23)

Photo credit: Fireworks by Soni Holladay

Saturday, April 1, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday, April 2, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free admission, HMNS Grand Hall

Flutter Over to Browse the Breathtaking Orchids After Stocking Up at the Cockrell Butterfly Center Spring Plant Sale! April 1 will be a treat for plant lovers as our Spring Plant Sale will take place at the same time as the annual Houston Orchid Society Show and Sale. The Cockrell Butterfly Center Plant Sale is a butterfly enthusiast’s dream. Here you can find all of the prime host and nectar plants for the some of the most popular native butterflies. The plants we sell will not only lure in those beautiful butterflies, but they’ll provide an important nectar source for other crucial pollinators such as native bees. Many native bee populations are in trouble due to several factors including loss of habitat and pesticide use. Native bees are some of our most important pollinators, and are now being put on the endangered species list. You can help, with every pollinator-friendly, flowering plant you add to your garden! The plants we sell are grown 100% pesticide free and are ready to feed all of your favorite fluttering or buzzing insects.

SPRING PLANT SALE Saturday, April 1, 9 a.m. - noon 7th level of HMNS Parking Garage Members receive a 10% discount on their purchase, and shoppers who spend $30 or more receive free parking in the Museum garage. Everyone who attends will receive friendly advice and answers to your pollinator-gardening questions. Arrive early, as a line starts to form long before the opening of the plant sale! Open until noon or until we sell out. Our plants go fast!

Orchids and exhibits will be officially judged before the show opens, so you will be able to see what the experts are looking for in a prize-winning plant or display—this year’s theme is Orchids in Space. Bring your camera for some stunning photographs. If you'd like to grow these masterpieces of nature yourself, or want to add new varieties to your existing collection, a great selection will be available from vendors, both local and from as far away as California and Hawaii. Orchid pots, potting medium, fertilizers and other materials may also be purchased, with plenty of experts on hand to advise you on what you need. For more information about this event visit houstonorchidsociety.org/show.html.

www.hmns.org/butterflycenter

For the eighth year running, HMNS is hosting the Houston Orchid Society's fabulous annual show and sale. This two-day extravaganza of exotic blooms features a lavish smorgasbord of orchids, orchid arrangements, corsages, orchid collectables and educational information.

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

HOUSTON ORCHID SOCIETY'S ANNUAL SHOW AND SALE

FOR TEACHER

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

The Museum is well known for exciting hands-on summer camps, but many are unaware of the equally engaging experiences that are available all year. Topics are diverse and children learn by doing. In our Time Lab this January, children were busy discovering the amazing history that man shares with horses.

www.hmns.org/education

MARCH LAB TOPICS Time Lab, Grades 1-8 “Inventions of Imperial China” China's long history saw the emergence of many important inventions such as paper and movable type. Come delve into the many wonders of Imperial China! (March 31 in Sugar Land) Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 “Say what?” - Which creatures converse through subsonic booms? Can moths really “talk” to bats? Find out the answers to these questions and more as we explore how animals use and experience sound. (March 30 in Sugar Land)

Students spent time mixing pigments with fat to make paint similar to that used by Paleolithic artists. They then used this paint to create horses, similar to those found in the caves of Lascaux. Students also enjoyed learning about density in our ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab and dissecting starfish in our Dissection Lab. There are a multiple topics available each month and a variety of labs can be scheduled on demand. Visit www.hmns.org/educators for more information on booking an experience for your class or group.

WEEKDAY LABS Coming 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 and includes admission to the Museum’s permanent exhibit halls. Available at HMNS in Hermann Park all month and select dates at 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 2016-2017 school year.

Dissection Lab, Grades 5-10 “Waste Not, Want Not” - From filtration to waste removal, investigate the body fluid balancer, the kidney. Includes mammalian kidney dissection.

their fangs, transparent heads, built in lights and love of toxic chemicals, they sure are aliens! (May 25 in Sugar Land) Earth Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Total Eclipse of the Sun” - Explore what happens during an eclipse, and prepare for our next total solar eclipse! ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Shape Science II” - There’s so much exciting shape science it wouldn’t fit in one class! Come explore more puzzles, tessellations and symmetry. (May 26 in Sugar Land)

LABS ON DEMAND Need help with a TEKS objective? Want a lab experience for your field trip? Try our Labs On Demand! Each lab is tailored to your grade level needs. $200 per presentation (maximum 25 students), plus $75 travel fee for presentations at your school.

APRIL LAB TOPICS Earth Science, Grades 1-8 “Livable Earth” - Discover the characteristics that make the Earth an ideal place for us to live! Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 “Pollution/Conservation” - Small changes in an environment can have a big impact on wildlife. Discover the impact humans have had, both good and bad, as you explore the effects of pollutants. (April 27 in Sugar Land) ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Crash Course” - Investigate the physics of collisions and safety technology. (April 28 in Sugar Land) MAY LAB TOPICS Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 “Deep Sea Divers” - We know more about the surface of the moon than we do the ocean floor. These deep sea creatures are not from space, but with

Topics Available: Chemistry, Force and Motion, Electricity, Light and Optics, Magnets, Storm Science, Ancient Egypt, Cells, Earth Science, and Dissection. For more information on booking a Lab on Demand for your group please email educationquestions@hmns.org.

SHELL EDUCATORS’ PREVIEW Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Tuesday, March 28, 4 - 7 p.m. Free for Educators RSVP starting February 28 to educatorpreview@hmns.org or (713) 634-4659. Exhibition info on page 8.

EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE OR MATHEMATICS AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS Through the generosity of the Cockrell Foundation, HMNS awards the Evelyn

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FOR ALL EDUCATORS PROGRAMS, VISIT WWW.HMNS.ORG/EDUCATORS OR CONTACT EDUCATIONQUESTIONS@HMNS.ORG

Frensley Scholarship of $2,000 to two high school juniors in the Houston area and the Wilhelmina C. Robertson Teaching Award of $2,000 is awarded to one K-5th grade science or math teacher, and one 6th-12th grade teacher.

OUTREACH PROGRAMS Bring the Museum to Your Classroom! 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.

“Differentiating with the Museum – Icon” Register by May 1 for Early Registration Discount Enhance your classroom strategy with ready-to-implement STEM activities and techniques influenced by our exhibit halls and the film Dream Big 3D. With dynamic presenters, engaging sessions, and the world of HMNS to explore, this is a workshop like no other. Receive six hours of Gifted and Talented credit or a 6-hour update credit. To register, email giftedandtalented@ hmns.org or call (713) 639-4659. Early registration $50, price increases May 2 to $60. Available dates: June: 6, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 20, 21, 23, 26, 28, 30; August: 3, 4

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOPS www.hmns.org/workshops

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

Discover a new world of science as you go behind the scenes with HMNS curators and staff in these exciting interactive workshops. These programs are for adults only. Participants receive 3 hours of CPE credit. Dinner is provided. Adults only. Tickets $30, Members $25.

EDUCATOR’S GUIDE IS YOUR TICKET TO WIN!

“Machines in Motion” Tuesday, March 28, 5 p.m.

It’s a curious year, Houston! Each month during the 2016-2017 school year, the education e-blast will feature a clue to solve using the Educator’s Guide. A mystery prize will be awarded to one unknown educator who has submitted the correct answer

Designing and building are essential to engineering. Learn to use openended hands-on challenges to teach the engineering design process in your classroom while covering important STEM concepts. (Grades K-8)

Explore the periodic table and discover new ways to make it an exciting hands-on learning experience instead of just a "plain ol’ chart." Participate in hands-on activities that help students to understand important chemistry concepts. Includes a tour of the Welch Hall of Chemistry. (Grades 3-8) “The Plague!” Tuesday, April 25, 5 p.m. From Yellow Fever to the Black Death, come explore the history and science of plague by participating in simulations, hands-on activities, and experiments. Then, bring the plague back to your classroom to excite students about science and history! (Grades 4-12) “Gladiator School” Tuesday, May 2, 5 p.m.

27 19

Welcome to the arena! Here, where every hit could be fatal and every fight your last, you must have concentration and be fearless of death. Come experience Roman gladiators and how to incorporate them in to your classroom. Includes tour of the special exhibit, Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum. (General)

EDUCATOR LATE NIGHT “Teaching Science through Literature” Friday, March 31, 5 - 11 p.m. Cross-curricular is best! Explore how the Museum uses books to enhance learning in the sciences. Participate in hands-on activities, listen to great stories, and explore the Museum. Participants receive dinner and 6 hours of CPE credit. Registration for the Educator Late Nights is restricted to educators only. Members $60, Tickets $70.

www.hmns.org/education

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

GIFTED AND TALENTED SUMMER WORKSHOP

“It’s Elemental” Tuesday, April 4, 5 p.m.

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

The application deadline for the 2017 Excellence in Science or Mathematics Teaching Awards and Student Scholarships is April 21, 2017. You can nominate a student or teacher at www.hmns.org/excellenceinscience. Contact (713) 639-4651 or sstevenson@ hmns.org with questions.

to educatorevent@hmns.org. From puzzles to riddles, we’ll keep peaking your curiosity over and over again!

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS www.hmns.org/kids

A summer of education and adventure awaits your child at HMNS. Xplorations Summer Science Adventures are week-long, hands-on science summer camps featuring science activities for children ages 6 - 12. Camps are held Monday - Friday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. For an additional weekly fee, care is available before camp begins (8 - 10 a.m.) and after camp ends (3 - 5:30 p.m.). Register early to secure your camp spots! With more sensational science than ever before, a summer of adventure awaits you at HMNS. New topics for 2017: Riveting Robots!, Super Human Science School for X-ceptional Children, Nature Unleashed: Journey to the Center of the Earth, and Advanced Crime Scene Investigators. Also new for 2017, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve upgraded to the newest form of LEGO Mindstorms EV3 in Lego Robotics and Advanced Lego Robotics. Returning this summer are favorites including Junior Paleontologist, Dino Claws and Shark Jaws, Paleontology 101, Amazing Animals, Master Spy Camp, Test for the Best, Puzzler, Wizard Science Academy, Star Warriors Academy, Extreme Machines, Movie Monster Making, and Freeze Frame.

Visit www.hmns.org/xplorations for complete camp information. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t received your Xplorations catalog by mail, please email xplorations@hmns.org or call (713) 639-4625. CLASS SCHEDULE: HMNS, Hermann Park: June 5 - 9, June 12 - 16, June 26 - 30 July 5 - 7 (3 day week), July 17 - 21, July 24 - 28 August 7 - 11, August 14 - 18. HMNS at, Sugar Land: June 5 - 9, June 19 - 23, June 26 - 30 July 10 - 14, July 17 - 21, July 31 - August 4 August 7 - 11.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN

www.hmns.org/scouts SPRING BREAK SCOUTS

SATURDAY CLASSES www.hmns.org/scoutclasses Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Webelos and Girl Scouts can earn badges! Each class covers requirements for one badge.

(Some badges may require work to be completed outside of class.) HMNS, Hermann Park: March 25, April 8, April 22, May 13, May 20. HMNS at Sugar Land: April 29.

SUMMER SCOUT ACADEMY 2017

registration information posted online at www.hmns.org/summerscouts. HMNS, Hermann Park: June 19-23, July 10-14, July 31-August 4. HMNS at Sugar Land: June 12-16, July 5-7 (3 day week), July 24-28, August 14-18.

www.hmns.org/summerscouts

BADGES ON DEMAND

Our weeklong classes help scouts to earn multiple badges in one week of fun at the Museum. Sessions are designed specifically for Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts (Webelos, Bear and Wolf ranks) and Girl Scouts (Brownie, Junior, Cadette and Senior ranks). Registration is now open.Schedule and

Schedule a private class of 10+! Classes are available for Tiger Cubs, Wolf Cubs, Bear Cubs, Webelos, Boy Scouts, Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes and Girl Scouts to complete a badge as a group—including badges exclusively offered by HMNS.

www.hmns.org/badgesondemand

www.hmns.org/kids

TEEN TECH 2017 www.hmns.org/teentech Session 1: July 10 - 13 Session 2: July 31 - August 3 From exploring the ocean floor in a submersible to flying through the universe to Mars and through the International Space Station, Teen Tech 2017 is an exceptional week of handson design, construction, programming and creating for teens focusing on testing new software. Only HMNS can offer this unique opportunity to program a 3D game, design toys for astronauts, produce professional photography, and make chemistry magic to share with friends. Teen Tech is taught in the Expedition Center Mission Control where each student has his/her own computer and room to experiment. Each class day is 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

HMNS AT SUGAR LAND March 15 - 17, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Senior Girl Scouts – The Sow What? Journey to complete your Take Action project. Boy Scouts – Choice of: All About Cars, Citizenship in the Community, Emergency Preparedness and Fire Safety, and Soil and Water Conservation.

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

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR www.hmns.org/calendar

Sensory Friendly event DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Nutrition and Wild Orangutans: Insights into Human Health” Wednesday, March 1, 6:30 p.m. (page 24) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Secrets from a Watery Grave: USS Houston and HMAS Perth” Thursday, March 2, 6:30 p.m. (page 24)

EXHIBITION OPENS Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Members First Weekend: March 10 - 12 (page 8)

2ND SATURDAY Saturday, March 11, 8 a.m. - noon (page 2) SPRING BREAK George Observatory Spring Break Evenings to Observe March 11, 14, 17, 18 (page 22)

To create a comfortable environment for those with sensory sensitivities, HMNS will open an hour early at 8 a.m. with modified lighting and sounds until 10 a.m. Visit www.hmns.org/accessibility for Planetarium and Giant Screen Theatre schedule and more helpful information.

MARCH

TRAVEL NIGHT Norwegian Voyage Tuesday, March 7, 6:30 p.m. (page 24)

MEMBERS EVENT Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Friday, March 10, 6 - 10 p.m. (page 3)

Sensory Friendly Event Saturday, April 29, 8 - 10 a.m

FAMILY EVENT HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Pi Day 3.14 Tuesday, March 14, 10 a.m. - noon (page 21)

SPRING BREAK SCOUTS HMNS at Sugar Land March 15 - 17, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (page 29) MIXERS AND ELIXIRS St. Patrick’s Day Friday, March 17, 8 p.m. - midnight (page 6) XPLORATIONS SUMMER CAMP General Public Registration Begins Monday, March 20 (page 28) ASTRONOMY LECTURE “Mission: Mars – Steps toward the First Human Journey to the Red Planet” Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 p.m. (page 16) EXHIBITION OPENS Vanishing Arts Friday, March 24 (page 5)

AIA FAMILY EVENT “On The Trail” March 25 - 26, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

SHELL EDUCATORS’ PREVIEW Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Tuesday, March 28, 4 - 7 p.m. (page 26) EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOP “Machines in Motion” Tuesday, March 28, 5 p.m. (page 27) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE "Morituri te salutant. Life and Death in the Arena." Tuesday, March 28, 6:30 p.m. (page 9) HMNS AFTER DARK Wednesday, March 29, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (page 31) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE AND EXHIBIT TOUR “Evening with the Collectors: Mapping Texas” Thursday, March 23, 6:30 p.m. (page 14) EDUCATOR LATE NIGHT ”Teaching Science through Literature” Friday, March 31, 5 - 11 p.m. (page 27)

Explore three cultures whose animal-herding and traveling habits influenced the development of the rodeo we know today. Free for Members. Presented by AIA, Houston Society.

For tickets to all events, visit www

HMNS After Dark Wednesday, March 29, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. For everyone who has wished for access to HMNS in the evenings after work, here’s your chance! Special exhibitions, permanent halls, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Wortham Giant Screen Theatre and Burke Baker Planetarium will all stay open until 9 p.m. Take a stroll, catch a flick and enjoy a wonderful evening out at HMNS After Dark. Grab a drink or a bite at McDonald’s and enjoy the Museum in glow of the moonlight!

SPRING PLANT SALE Saturday, April 1, 9 a.m. - noon (page 25) HOUSTON ORCHID SOCIETY’S ANNUAL SHOW AND SALE Saturday, April 1, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday, April 2, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (page 25)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Secrets of the World’s First Gladiator Cemetery” Tuesday, April 4, 6:30 p.m. (page 9) FABERGÉ LECTURE “Fabergé Animals – Miniature Menagerie of Grandeur” Wednesday, April 5, 6:30 p.m. (page 13) EXHIBITION OPENS Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise Members First Weekend: April 7 - 9 (page 13) 2ND SATURDAY Saturday, April 8, 8 a.m. - noon (page 3)

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

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Tuesday, April 11, 6 p.m. (page 9) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Vanishing Arts Tuesday, April 11, 6 p.m. (page 5) ADULT FIELD WORKSHOP “Paleo-Ecology Field Trip, Jesse Jones Park” Saturday, April 15, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (page 23)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Evolution’s Bite: Teeth, Diet and How a Changing World Made Us Human” Tuesday, April 18, 6:30 p.m. (page 24) CULTURAL FEAST “Gladiator Banquet Roman Spectacle and Cuisine” Wednesday, April 19, 7 p.m. (page 9) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Eye of the Storm: Archeology in the Midst of War in Syria” Thursday, April 20, 6:30 p.m. (page 24)

GST FILM OPENS Amazon Adventure 3D Members First Film Screenings: Friday, April 21, 1, 2, 3, 4 p.m. (page 18) MEMBERS NIGHT George Observatory Friday, April 21, 7:30 - 10 p.m. (page 3) EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOP “The Plague!” Tuesday, April 25, 5 p.m. (page 27) PALEO LECTURE “Sex in the Fossil Record” Tuesday, April 25, 6:30 p.m. (page 23) HMNS AFTER DARK Wednesday, April 26, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (page 31) HMNS CATALYSTS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Thursday, April 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (page 6) SENSORY FRIENDLY EVENT Saturday, April 29, 8 - 10 a.m. (page 30)

www.hmns.org/calendar

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOP “It’s Elemental” Tuesday, April 4, 5 p.m. (page 27)

APRIL

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR

Save the date! Remaining After Darks in 2017 are April 26, May 31, June 28, July 26, August 23, September 27, October 24, November 22, December 27.

POSTMASTER: Dated material enclosed. Please deliver IMMEDIATELY!

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Houston, Texas Permit No. 6371

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

HMNS NEWS • MARCH / APRIL 2017 • VOLUME 22, NUMBER 2

5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030

LAST DAY MAY 29 PAGE 10

OPENS FOR MEMBERS ONLY APRIL 7 PAGE 12

OPENS ON THE GIANT SCREEN, ON EARTH DAY, APRIL 22 MEMBERS ONLY, APRIL 21 PAGE 18

ONLY AT HMNS AT SUGAR LAND! EXTENDED THROUGH MAY 7