HMNS News May/June 2017

news M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7 VOLUME 22, NUMBER 3 w w w. h m n s . o r g

OPENS FOR MEMBERS ONLY ON JUNE 2 IN THE WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE

EXHIBIT OPENS JUNE 19

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

2nd SATURDAY

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Open Early for Members at 8 a.m.

May 13, 8 a.m. - Tours of McGovern Hall of the Americas June 10, 8 a.m. - Tours of Morian Hall of Paleontology

2nd

Beat the crowds - 2nd Saturdays are for Members! Explore our permanent exhibition halls and get exclusive discounts to special exhibitions, enjoy arts and crafts and more.

Each 2nd Saturday features family programming from 9 a.m. to noon. Join your Museum family on 2nd Saturdays.

An exclusive benefit for members only! Permanent exhibit halls are always FREE for Members!

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!

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N EW N EW

$45 Number of people

1

$65

$85

1

2

$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

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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!

SENIOR SOCIAL FOR MEMBERS

NEW! MEMBERS FIRST FILM

Children's Craft Night for Members Friday, June 2, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 31, 9 a.m.

Penguins 3D Friday, June 2, Show times: 1, 2, 3, 4 p.m.

Travel the globe with World Trekkers!

The perfect family outing, these events highlight a diverse set of cultures from around the world through entertainment, face painting, balloon artists, arts and crafts and more. This June, we're heading off to Italy. No need to pack your bags—HMNS brings the world to you! Member tickets are $7.

Enjoy a light breakfast and an exclusive tour of the Hall of Ancient Egypt during this new special event series for senior Members only. Experience the Museum with friends, old and new, at HMNS! HMNS' Senior Social is a new quarterly event exclusively for HMNS' senior Members, ages 62 and up.

Tickets are $2.

Members get exclusive access to 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. (More info on this new film is on page 18.)

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

WORLD TREKKERS: ITALY

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MEMBERS NIGHT

MEMBERS NIGHT - HMNS AT SUGAR LAND

George Observatory Friday, June 9, 8 - 10 p.m.

Sweet – A Tasty Journey Friday, May 19, 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 about the George Observatory on page 24.)

Take a nostalgic look at the confections beloved by generations of Americans. The exhibition serves a healthy helping of brain food. Children’s crafts, refreshments and cash bar. Reserve early, call (713) 639-4629. Tickets are $3.

(More info about this special exhibition on page 20.)

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

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GENERAL INFORMATION

In 2 2nd Saturday Membership Benefits 3 Member Only Events 4 General Information 5 Mixer & Elixirs Take Two 6 HMNS Catalysts HMNS Museum Store 7 Special Event Snapshot 2017 Museum Gala 8 Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum 9 Mummies of the World: The Exhibition 10 Fabergé: Royal Gifts 11 Faces from the Southern Ocean 12 Vanishing Arts: Highlights from the Beasley-Hwang Collection 13 Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State 14 Wildlife Photographer of the Year 15 Cockrell Butterfly Center 16 Out of the Amazon: Life on the River Tourmaline Treasures 17 Cabinet of Curiosities Gems of the Sea: The Guido T. Poppe Collection 18-19 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre 20-21 HMNS at Sugar Land 22-23 Burke Baker Planetarium 24 George Observatory 25 For Teachers 26 Adult Education 27 Permanent Exhibit Halls 28-29 Just For Kids 30-31 Events Calendar HMNS Afer Dark GET CONNECTED TO HMNS

WWW.HMNS.ORG Natural.Science

@hmns

@hmns

naturalscience1

hmns

hmns

hmns

blog.hmns.org

HMNS MEMBERSHIP

HMNS AT SUGAR LAND

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

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.

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 EXTENDED SUMMER HOURS: May 27 - August 27: Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: noon to 5 p.m.

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND: May 27 - 29: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

SPECIAL EVENT RENTALS www.hmns.org/sugarlandrentals sugarlandprograms@hmns.org (281) 313-2277, ext. 101

EXTENDED SUMMER HOURS: June 3 - August 20: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

GEORGE OBSERVATORY

DIRECT ENERGY FREE THURSDAYS Permanent Exhibit Halls and Planetarium FREE after 2 p.m. on Thursdays and after 3 p.m., during holiday and summer hours

Located in Brazos Bend State Park 21901 FM 762 Needville, Texas 77461 (281) 242-3055 www.hmns.org/observatory

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

State park entrance fee is $7, kids 12 and under are free. Entrance to park is not permitted after 9:30 p.m.

PARKING GARAGE Members received discounted rate. $5 All Day for Members, $20 All Day for Non-Members

Private groups can schedule scout troop experiences, Friday night star parties, Discovery Dome planetarium shows, tours, Expedition Center missions, astronomy classes and birthday parties.

FIELD TRIPS

Current observatory weather conditions can be accessed at www.weatherbug. com, zip code 77461.

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

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

SPECIAL EVENT RENTALS

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

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

Mixers & Elixirs 2017 is launching in galactic fashion!

Why am I always attracted to the rebels?

“May the Fourth Be With You!” Thursday, May 4, 7 - 10 p.m.

H M N S M I X E R S & E L I X I R S • TA K E T W O

Grab your friends and head to the Museum to celebrate your inner rebel or join the dark side for our May-the-Fourth-Be-with-You par-tay.

Mix, mingle and make new friends while enjoying live music by the Space Rockers, cocktails and the city’s best food trucks.

Party or party not. There is no try. Costumes highly encouraged!

Mixers and Elixirs is for adults 21 and over. Tickets $25, HMNS Members $15 and free for HMNS Catalysts. Purchase advance tickets at www.hmns. org/mixers. Contact groupsales@hmns.org for group and corporate rates.

Band Line-Up for Upcoming Mixers & Elixirs Mango Punch Friday, June 23, 7 - 10 p.m.

Electric Circus Friday, July 21, 7 - 10 p.m.

Grupo KaChe Friday, August 11, 7 - 10 p.m.

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Gladiator (2000) R Friday, May 26, 7:15 p.m.

Come for the movie, stay for the facts.

Q&A with Curator of Anthropology following the film.

TOR A I D A GL JAWS NGS I R E F TH O D R LO

Jaws (1975) W Friday, June 16, 7:15 p.m.

Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (2001) E Friday, June 30, 7:15 p.m.

NEW! Take 2 Members Season Pass!

Buy 5 Take 2 films, get the 6th film free!

Offer valid with a current membership.

Mention code WGSTYEPMemberComp at the box office to redeem. All tickets must be purchased on a single transaction.

www.hmns.org/mixers

Our popular Friday night classic film program is back for its fifth year! Now with an extended schedule, May through November. Visit www.hmns.org/taketwo for complete schedule.

H M N S H M N S C ATA LY S T S • H M N S M U S E U M S T O R E

HMNS would like to recognize the 2017 Catalysts Steering Committee:

museumstore.hmns.org • www.hmns.org/catalysts

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

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.

HMNS MUSEUM STORE New minerals and fossils are now in store for you!

Yoga with the Dinosaurs Thursday, June 1, 6:30 p.m.

Join HMNS and Revolution Studio for our first-ever evening of Dino Yoga at HMNS—exclusively for Catalysts!

Perfect for avid yogis or beginners.

Come out, learn, and have fun. Tickets are $5. Due to extremely limited availability, reservations are required.

Call (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 Lindsay McClelland 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

HMNS can make your upcoming special event truly unforgettable.

This evening the Morian Hall of Paleontology was transformed into an chic dining spot. www.rentthemuseum.com • specialevents@hmns.org • (713) 639-4749

HMNS SPECIAL EVENT SNAPSHOT • 2017 HMNS GALA

SPECIAL EVENT SNAPSHOT

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rentthemuseum.com

2017 HMNS GALA HMNS thanks Gala co-chairs, Shawn Stephens and Jim Jordan, and Kelli and John Weinzierl, for a stellar evening.

Over 500 guests attended The Big Bang Ball at the Museum on March 4.

The Big Bang Ball raised over $800,000 for the Museum’s exhibitions, educational programs and operations.

Thank you to everyone for making Gala 2017 an astronomical success!

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

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Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum On exhibition through September 4

to organize (and fund) the games, instead it was the politicians who took over.

BREAD AND GAMES One does not have to be a historian to know that gladiatorial games were very popular in ancient Rome.

Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum retraces the roots of this institution.

We have evidence of actual games being organized as early as the midthird century B.C. They continue well into the Late Roman Empire. The roots of the earliest Roman gladiatorial combat may well reside with the Etruscans, a civilization that provided Rome with its kings.

Initially, gladiatorial games were considered an obligation on the part of the family of a famous, and presumably well off, individual. Their duty was to organize these games and pay for it themselves. It was not until the beginning of our era, when the Roman Republic was replaced by the Empire, that we observe a shift: families were no longer obliged

So it was with the Flavian dynasty, whose founder Vespasian ordered the construction of the Colosseum and whose second member, Emperor Titus, oversaw the opening of the famous structure. Emperor Titus ordered 100 days of celebrations, involving gladiatorial combat. Things had become very different indeed.

Don’t miss this special exhibition that explores the behind-the-scenes lives of the gladiators and the infamous spectacle of the Colosseum. On display for the first time in the US are original armor and related archaeological artifacts from the Colosseum and other Italian museums.

Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum is organized by Contemporanea Progetti, srl and Expona in collaboration with the Colosseum, Rome. This exhibition is sponsored

by HMW Entertainment. It will be on display in on the 3rd floor of the Dan L Duncan Family Wing through September 4, 2017. Members receive reduced admission!

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE www.hmns.org/lectures “Roman Legionnaires – The Soldiers of the Roman Empire” John Keahey, Historian Tuesday, May 23, 6:30 p.m.

Historian John Keahey, while in period dress, will explain each item of armor, weaponry and equipment of the typical Roman legionary soldier from 1 to 300 A.D. The case of a Roman auxiliary soldier, who was recruited from a nonRoman 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.

“Gladiator Graffiti and Roman Blood Sport: Findings from Excavations at Aphrodisias” Peter De Staebler, Ph.D., NYU Tuesday, June 20, 6:30 p.m.

For the past 14 years Dr. Peter De Staebler has conducted the NYU excavations at Aphrodisias, an ancient Greek city in Anatolia, Turkey near the Aegean coast. Unique to this area are hundreds of graffiti messages engraved into stone that reveal what life was like there 1,500 years ago.

Researchers have deciphered these messages to reveal many aspects of the city's life, including gladiator combat, chariot racing, religious fighting and sex. De Staebler will overview these findings in context of the spectator buildings the adoption of Roman blood sports in the Greek east of the Roman Empire.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Thursday, May 18, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, June 21, 6 p.m. www.hmns.org/bts

TAKE TWO Gladiator Friday, May 26, 7:15 p.m.

Details on page 5.

MEMBERS RECEIVE REDUCED ADMISSION!

In 1994 workers opened a crypt in a church in Vรกc, Hungary. It dated back to the early 1800s and contained 265 mummified remains of men, women and children. Researchers discovered they had died of tuberculosis. Ever since the discovery, a doctor has been studying the bacteria found in one mummy in particular. The information gleaned from its DNA could provide information that will help fight tuberculosis.

Throughout the exhibit, visitors get to come face to face with mummified remains of humans and animals. In each section, there is an opportunity to learn more about research that was done on the remains.

Mummies of the World: The Exhibition is on view on the main floor until May 29, 2017. Members receive reduced admission to this special exhibition.

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

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

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www.hmns.org/mummies

While discovering well preserved, mummified remains of humans is a rare occurrence, they do provide us with unique opportunities to study the past. We know what they ate, what caused their death, and, in some cases, we have the opportunity to see how a deadly disease, such as tuberculosis, has evolved over the centuries. Tuberculosis was also found in the famous ice mummies of the Andes mountains in Peru. They too provide researchers a chance to unravel the genetic makeup of this disease and study its evolution.

HMNS MUMMIES OF THE WORLD: THE EXHIBITION

LAST DAY IS MAY 29

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

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Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise The New Dorothy and Artie McFerrin Gallery Opens in April with a Little Surprise Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise featuring the Artie and Dorothy McFerrin Fabergé Collection opened to Museum Members in a new home on April 7.

The new Dorothy and Artie McFerrin Gallery presents this extensive collection of important objects from the workshops of Peter Carl Fabergé.

This important collection was built over the past fifteen years. Special efforts were made to seek out and acquire those pieces which were part of the lives of the Russian Imperial Family. Many pieces shown in Fabergé: Royal Gifts were displayed in the private rooms occupied by the Romanov family. Many were gifts between family members and from members of the royal family to special friends, such as a pink triangular clock purchased by Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra Feodorovna.

The Diamond Trellis Egg was an Easter gift from Tsar Alexander III to Tsarina Maria Feodorovna in 1892. This Imperial Easter Egg is exhibited here for the first time since the 1920’s with its original “surprise,” a small jeweled mechanical elephant, on loan from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. This new exhibit includes state-ofthe-art custom casework featuring

LED lighting designed to capture the intense color of the enamels and reflect the polished surfaces of the diamonds. The HMNS team has introduced smart-label technology which allows visitors access to the in-depth stories accompanying the pieces on display. The HMNS Rock Stars are also part of our “Smart Team.” These volunteers are frequently in the gallery to answer visitor questions and demonstrate the fine art of lapidary work.

Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise is the inaugural installation of the Dorothy and Artie McFerrin Gallery in the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals on the 2nd floor. This new permanent gallery which opened in April is made possible by the generous underwriting of the Artie and Dorothy McFerrin Foundation. Admission is free for Members.

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

BEHIND-THE-SCENES www.hmns.org/bts Fabergé Artisan Demonstration and Tour Wednesday, May 10, 6 p.m.

Fabergé craftsmen innovated and perfected numerous gemstonecutting 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.

Faces from the Southern Ocean Opens Monday, June 19

Accompanying these photographs are a mounted Adelie penguin and Magellanic penguin from the Museum’s collections.

Through a selection of photography

by J.J. L’Heureux, Faces from the Southern Ocean embodies the spirit of the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, a realm dominated by sky and cold.

Reindeer, seals and penguins—who inhabit this icy region—along with breathtaking landscapes are captured in photographs from L’Heureux’s more than a dozen expeditions to this region.

Faces from the Southern Ocean is organized by Katharine T. Carter & Associates. It will be on view at HMNS June 19 - November 5, 2017 in Jones Gallery on the main floor. Admission is free for Members.

Included in the exhibition are photographs of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s campsite at Cape Royds from his 1907 Nimrod Expedition, the first of three expeditions to the Antarctic.

The site is now managed by the Antarctica Heritage Trust who

DAY EXCURSION Penguin Encounter Saturday, June 24, 2 p.m.

WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE Penguins 3D Opens June 3 (page 18)

Meet the various species of penguins at Moody Gardens in Galveston as you go behind-the-scenes with a

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EVENING FILM SCREENING & EXHIBITION TOUR Penguins 3D Tuesday, June 27, 6:30 p.m.

Join Dianna Olsen who cares for the penguins at Moody Gardens for a special evening viewing of Penguins 3D in the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre.

A tour of Faces from the Southern Ocean will follow the film. More information on the film is on page 18.

www.hmns.org/southernocean

Antarctica is completely surrounded by the Southern Ocean. There are no sounds except for reverberating wind and water punctuated by the cracking and booming of ice as it breaks off into the sea. It is a pristine place, overwhelming and awesome.

partnered with Google and the Polar Geospatial Center to capture images of Sheckleton’s hut and created a 360 degree tour of its interior as part of Google’s World Wonders Project.

HMNS FACES FROM THE SOUTHERN OCEAN

staff biologist to learn how they care for the penguins in their chilly indoor environment. You will learn about penguin biology, conservation, training and enrichment—plus meet them up close and personal.

Participants will meet in Galveston at Moody Gardens. Registration info at www.hmns.org/excursions.

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

© The Authority for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage (ARCCH), 2013, with the permission of UNESCO.

www.hmns.org/vanishingarts

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We live in a fast-changing world.

Things come and go in a blink of an eye. A new exhibit, Vanishing Arts: Highlights from the Beasley-Hwang Collection, elegantly illustrates this notion.

For about three decades, Drs. Beasley and Hwang researched hepatitis B in Asia, giving papers at conferences and

then took time to travel in the region.

They also collected. A selection of what they brought back to Houston is currently on display. These artifacts are often art forms. They are vanishing in front of our eyes, as communities – the people who make these objects – come and go.

Vanishing Arts: Highlights from the

Beasley-Hwang Collection is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. The collection was recently donated by Dr. LuYu Hwang and her late husband Dr. Palmer Beasley.

The exhibition will be on display in Fondren Hall on the main floor through October 22, 2017. Admission is free for Members.

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.

Admission is free for Members.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE Soldiers of Early Texas John Keahey, Historian Tuesday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.

Historian John Keahey, while in full dress, will explain each item of clothing and equipment of a Texian volunteer and Texian settler who

1848), which confirmed Texas as part of the United States in the quest for manifest destiny.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Wednesday, June 21, 6 p.m. www.hmns.org/bts

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www.hmns.org/mappingtexas

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.

participated in the epic War for Texas Independence (1835-1836).

The Texian will then be contrasted with the elaborate European-style uniform of a Mexican foot soldier.

Following is a regular soldier in the US Army of the Mexican War (1845-

HMNS MAPPING TEXAS

More than forty rare maps are on display together for the first time in Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State —many on public view for the first time ever.

HMNS WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR www.hmns.org/wpy

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©Sam Hobson (United Kingdom) Nosy Neighbour

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the most prestigious photography event of its kind, providing a global platform that showcases the natural world’s most astonishing and challenging sights for over 50 years.

This prestigious competition and resulting exhibition stimulates engagement with the diversity and beauty of the natural world and thrills audiences around the globe.

This world-renowned exhibition, features 100 awe-inspiring images, from fascinating animal behavior to breathtaking wild landscapes.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year 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. This exhibition is free for Members.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Wednesday, May 17, 6 p.m. www.hmns.org/bts

©Dhyey Shah (India) Golden Relic

©Sandra Bartocha (Germany) Heart’s Delight

©Ganesh H Shankar (India) Eviction Attempt

©Willem Kruger (South Africa) Termite Tossing

COCKRELL BUTTERFLY CENTER IS BLOOMING WITH SUMMER FUN! These events are included with admission to the Cockrell Butterfly Center—reduced for Members!

June 19 - 25

WING IT! Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.

FRIDAY FEEDING FRENZY

POLLINATION CELEBRATION Sunday, June 25, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

This family festival caps off the week with a celebration of pollinators! Enjoy meeting the pollinators of the Cockrell Butterfly Center, crafts, activities, tastings and more for the whole family to enjoy.

Fridays, 9:30, 10 & 10:30 a.m.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE

You are cordially invited to attend…

Friday Feeding Frenzy! Watch our most captivating carnivores—such as snakes, tarantulas and mantises—dine on their catch of the week. Every Friday during the summer, be sure to catch Friday Feeding Frenzy at 9:30, 10:00, and 10:30 a.m. Free for members.

“Monarchs and Milkweed: Their Remarkable Story of Coevolution” Anurag Agrawal, Ph.D., Cornell University Tuesday, May 9, 6:30 p.m.

One of Nature's most important and sophisticated evolutionary

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www.hmns.org/butterflycenter

Meet the Museum’s butterfly experts at the butterfly hatcheries for Wing It! every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. this summer starting May 30. You will experience a day in the life of a newly emerged butterfly and learn about a butterfly’s journey from its tropical home to here at HMNS. Then witness a live butterfly release as the fluttering youngsters are introduced into their new home, the beautiful three-story terrarium of the Cockrell Butterfly Center.

We will be paying tribute to some of Nature’s most important helpers at the Cockrell Butterfly Center during National Pollinator Week. Look for us on Facebook each day that week as we post live videos about pollinators and what simple things you can do to help them out. Join the fun at facebook. com/natural.science to watch these Facebook Lives and get your daily dose of science and fun!

relationships is that of the monarch butterfly and milkweed plant—one a symbol of life and renewal, the other a toxic plant. Dr. Anurag Agrawal of Cornell will describe this inextricable and intimate relationship, which has been like an arms race over the millennia, a battle of exploitation and defense between two fascinating species. Book signing and milkweed sale following lecture.

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

NATIONAL POLLINATOR WEEK ON FACEBOOK LIVE

HMNS OUT OF THE AMAZON: LIFE ON THE RIVER • TOURMALINE TREASURES www.hmns.org/tourmaline • www.hmns.org/amazon

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2017.

Admission is free for Members.

The Shuar: More than Headhunters Tucked away in the Amazon, the Shuar are primarily known for head-hunting and the manufacture of shrunken heads.

More than just warriors, the Shuar are also strategists and craftspeople.

Homes are built on the tops of hills to allow for easier spotting of surprise attacks. In fishing, poison is discharged upstream, then the paralyzed fish float downstream to be easily gathered.

Using blowguns, hunters target birds with colorful plumage to create intricate ceremonial headdresses made of toucan pelts and body ornaments made of beetle wing casings, seeds and vines. Though the Shuar have a bloody reputation, they are more than just headhunters.

Out of the Amazon: Life on the River is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science and located on the 3rd floor of the Dan L Duncan Family Wing.

The last day on view is September 4,

TOURMALINE TREASURES On display in one place for a limited time are masterpiece tourmalines from the most famous mines in the world.

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

This stunning work of Nature is on loan from the Qatar Museums in Doha.

This 35 x 12cm crystal was found hanging upside-down, suspended from the ceiling in the second pocket of the legendary Jonas mine, which produced five of the largest and finest gem rubellite crystals ever found.

To this day, no other rubellite of comparable size and quality has been found.

Tourmaline Treasures is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. This special display in the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals on the 2nd floor has been extended through September 30, 2017.

Admission is free for Members.

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

HMNS CABINET OF CURIOSITIES • GEMS OF THE SEA

PLEASE TOUCH! Staying true to the original cabinets of curiosity—first appearing in the Renaissance and reaching their pinnacle of popularity in the Victorian Era—this exhibition contains thousands of extraordinary natural and manmade objects nestled in countless nooks and crannies, just waiting to be discovered. In addition to the countless natural history specimens posted on every square foot of the room—from the 9-foot man-eating crocodile to fanciful sea creatures—endless numbers of drawers and cabinets are waiting to be explored.

Cabinet of Curiosities is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Located on the 2nd floor, this exhibition is free for Members.

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The Guido T. Poppe Collection

While sea shells may seem an unusual attraction for the Lester and Sue Smith Gem Vault, Gems of the Sea: The Guido T. Poppe Collection certainly fits the setting, considering the quality and rarity of these specimens.

Gems of the Sea features a selection of nearly 130 exquisite shells which represents 60 species from the prestigious Poppe Collection, which was recently acquired by HMNS. Gems of the Sea: The Guido T. Poppe Collection was organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

With the support of the Lillie and Roy Cullen Endowment and the Fox and Monica Benton Foundation, this exhibition is in honor of Ann Brinkerhoff. It is on display in Smith

Gem Vault within the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals on the second floor. Admission is free for Members.

DAY EXCURSION “Gulf Coast Shelling” Tina Petway, HMNS malacologist Saturday, May 6, 7 a.m. www.hmns.org/excursions

www.hmns.org/curiosities • www.hmns.org/gemsofthesea

GEMS OF THE SEA:

WORTHAM GIANT S

Visit www.hmns.org/giantscreen for showtim

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

Experience all of our film adventures with Giant Screen digital technology. The crystal-clear images coupled with our customized theatre geometry and powerful digital audio create a unique environment that will make you feel as if you are in the movie.

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

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PENGUINS 3D

MEMBERS FIRST: JUNE 2, OPENS TO PUBLIC: JUNE 3 Penguins 3D is an unforgettable tale of one king penguin’s journey through his species’ central rite of passage. Narrated by naturalist David Attenborough, Penguins 3D celebrates the destiny of a very special king penguin who returns to his birthplace in the sub-Antarctic. Known as Penguin City, the island is home to hundreds of albatrosses, fur seals, and brawling elephant seals—as well as six million penguins!

Our hero must earn his place among the island inhabitants and fulfill his destiny by finding a mate and raising a family.

What follows is the story of the most challenging time in a king penguin’s life, when he is driven to nurture and defend his offspring against harsh weather and fierce predators.

This cosmic drama plays out in one of Earth’s last great wildernesses, amid steep mountain ranges, and windblown plains half buried beneath snow and ice.

MEMBERS FIRST Penguins 3D Friday, June 2; Show times: 1, 2, 3, 4 p.m.

Details on page 3.

EVENING FILM SCREENING & EXHIBITION TOUR Penguins 3D and Faces from the Southern Ocean Featuring opening remarks by Dianna Olsen Moody Gardens Penguin Keeper Tuesday, June 27, 6:30 p.m. Details on page 11.

DAY EXCURSION Penguin Encounter Saturday, June 24, 2 p.m. Details on page 11.

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

SCREEN THEATRE

mes and more information about each film.

AMAZON ADVENTURE 3D NOW SHOWING

Audiences will be wowed by the mind-boggling examples of camouflage and mimicry and inspired by Bates’ endless curiosity and determination to explore the wilds of nature from the time he was a young boy.

EVENING FILM SCREENING Featuring opening remarks

by Erin Mills, Director of Cockrell Butterfly Center Wednesday, June 14 6:30 p.m.

NOW SHOWING

A film engineered to inspire, Dream Big is a breathtaking documentary about engineering that celebrates those who build, design, invent and construct—these are the pioneers who harness the power of imagination in order to enhance our human experience. The giant screen film offers gorgeous panoramas of natural and man-made marvels as well as intimate snapshots of men and women using their human ingenuity to achieve amazing feats.

Dream Big illustrates how engineering isn’t just about math and science; it’s also about compassion. It is an educational film that every adult will want their child to see.

A MacGillivray Freeman Film in partnership with the American Society of Civil Engineers. Presented by Bechtel Corporation. Local support provided by Phillips 66.

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

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www.hmns.org/giantscreen

DREAM BIG 3D

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

As a young man, Henry Bates risked his life for science in the 1850s. Amazon Adventure 3D tells the epic, true story of the explorer’s fascinating 11-year journey through the visually stunning and biodiverse Amazon rainforest. Bates made crucial contributions to biology: identifying 8,000 species new to science.

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

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U GAR L AND SWEET – A TASTY JOURNEY PREMIERES FRIDAY, MAY 12

Unwrap a world of flavorful fun in an interactive and magical setting! Explore the world of all that’s sweet, as you learn about candy ingredients from a 'farm to fork' perspective.

From artistic graphics, to the Rock Candy Mountain, to video and audio displays, this exhibit holds the perfect blend of education techniques… plus all out fun!

SWEET EVENTS Visit www.hmns.org/sweet for listing of Sweet summer fun events!

MEMBERS’ NIGHT Friday, May 19, 6 - 10 p.m. (page 3)

PALEO UNDER THE MICROSCOPE

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

Get the stories behind the label, go on an educational journey into the nuts and bolts of the candy and chocolatemaking process, and read the fascinating stories of famous candy makers and chocolatiers. You’ll think about candy in a new way, as you learn the role it plays in celebrations and special occasions around the world.

Sweet – A Tasty Journey is organized by Stage Nine Exhibitions, LLC and is locally sponsored by City of Sugar Land and visitsugarlandtx.com. This special exhibition is open May 12, 2017 through August 6, 2017. Members receive discounted admission!

THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 10:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.

Join us to learn the ins and outs of how microscopes operate—you’ll gain a whole new perspective for things both large and small! Free for Members!

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www.hmns.org/sugarland

Explore the world of paleo on a MICRO scale. You’ll view fossils of all kinds under our research-grade microscopes.

Our Paleo Prep Lab will get kids hands-on and close-up with the tiniest of bone bits and tooth fragments in the Dimetrodon work station.

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

Collisions that propetted meteorites toward Earth

Rosetta visiting Comet

www.hmns.org/planetarium

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Journey to the Edge of Darkness Opens Memorial Day Weekend Edge of Darkness features amazing views of places never before seen, gathered by a fleet of spacecraft explorers: Rosetta, Dawn, and New Horizons. We fly though the great cliffs on Comet 67P, take a close look at the fascinating bright “lights” on the asteroid Ceres, and then marvel at the first ever close ups of dwarf binary planet Pluto/Charon. Hayley Atwell, agent Carter of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, narrates the film.

Mysterious objects lie at the edge of our ability to image the dark reaches of our celestial neighborhood. Comets, with surfaces as dark as coal, show

the scars of their creation and hold clues to the early makeup of the solar system. Asteroids older than the solar system hide secrets waiting to be revealed. Pluto and its retinue of moons hint at the myriad of unique Kuiper Belt objects lying at the edge of the Sun’s gravity pull.

For much of history these celestial bodies have been mere pixels in a camera’s field of view. Now, thanks to a new generation of robotic explorers, we are visiting these denizens of the dark and discovering their stories.

Edge of Darkness expands your vision and awareness of our awesome and sometimes very threatening cosmic neighborhood.

Pluto with its companion Charon

DISTINGUISHED LECTURES “Edge of Darkness – New Discoveries from Far Reaches of our Solar System” Carolyn Sumners, Ed.D., HMNS Tuesday, June 13, 6:30 p.m.

Includes screening of Edge of Darkness.

“Asteroid Day 2017 – Impacting Asteroids in Texas” David Kring, Ph.D., Lunar and Planetary Institute Thursday, June 29, 6:30 p.m.

ALSO SHOWING IN TRUE8Kâ„¢

H M N S B U R K E B A K E R P L A N E TA R I U M 23

www.hmns.org/planetarium

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

GEORGEOBSERVATORY

www.hmns.org/observatory

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The planet Jupiter is a highlight of the summer sky. The Milky Way and all its wonders are spectacular to see this season outside the city at the George Observatory.

SUMMER EVENTS Information and tickets available at www.hmns.org/observatory.

Member’s Night Friday, June 9, 8 - 10 p.m.

More info on page 3.

Starry Night: A VIP Experience Friday, June 23, 8 p.m. - midnight Tracy Knauss, the Observatory's Director of Astronomy, is hosting a special summer stargazing session using the Observatory’s researchgrade telescopes. This exclusive VIP experience is the best opportunity for a guided tour of our galaxy in an intimate setting. All participants receive Astro Swag Bags.

Rocket Day for Kids Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. - noon Construct and launch water rockets then go on an expedition to the Moon in the newly redesigned Expedition Center. Fuel your imagination in this interactive simulation! Fun for kids and adults. (Ages 7 and up) Baby Boomers Saturday, June 24, 11 a.m. - noon A special tikes edition of Rocket Day is ready for launch! 3 – 2 – 1 – lift off!

Through fun activities, children will learn about rockets while they build a water rocket, and then launch it.

(Ages 3-7, accompanied by an adult)

SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE! 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 in the gift shop.

Viewing begins at dusk. Members receive discounted Telescope and Discovery Dome tickets.

VISITOR INFO 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.

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

FOR 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.

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 their fangs, transparent heads, built in lights and love of toxic chemicals, they sure are aliens! (May 25 in Sugar Land)

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.

Topics Available: Chemistry, Force and Motion, Electricity, Light and Optics, Magnets, Storm Science, Ancient Egypt, Cells, Earth Science,

Choose from these HMNS Outreach Programs:

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOPS

Chevron Earth Science 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.

Discovery Dome

“Gladiator School” Tuesday, May 2, 5 p.m.

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) “Discovering Density” Tuesday, May 23, 5 p.m.

Will it float? Build a boat, make a density column, and explore sinking, floating, and buoyancy through hands-on activities for your students.

(Grades K-2)

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.

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

Bugs on Wheels ConocoPhillips Science on Stage Docents to Go Wildlife on Wheels

EDUCATOR’S GUIDE IS YOUR TICKET TO WIN! 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 to educatorevent@ hmns.org. From puzzles to riddles, we’ll pique your curiosity over and over again!

GIFTED AND TALENTED SUMMER WORKSHOP “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. HMNS is TAGT verified.

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

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www.hmns.org/education

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!

and Dissection. For more information on booking your group, please email educationquestions@hmns.org.

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

May Lab Topics

TEACHERS

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

HMNS TRAVEL

WORLD OCEANS DAY

What’s on your bucket list?

HMNS offers amazing once-in-alifetime journeys!

Celebrate at HMNS with a “dive” on life-size 2D coral reefs of the Gulf of Mexico with Dr. Adrienne Correa of Rice plus presentations by Rice University’s Department of Earth Science. At various hands-on stations, researchers from several organizations will share their appreciation for the oceans and marine life and ways we can help in their conservation.

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

www.hmns.org/travel

This event is co-sponsored by Rice University’s BioSciences Department, NOAA Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, Marine Mammal Stranding Network, Moody Gardens and HMNS.

Northern Lights & Vikings: Iceland and Norway March 15 - 26, 2018

With a goal of promoting Ocean conservation and bring awareness to the dangers of plastic pollution, “Our Oceans, Our Future” is the theme for UN-designated World Oceans Day.

FILM SCREENING

Sonic Seas Thursday, June 8, 6:30 p.m.

www.hmns.org/adults

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Each experience is designed with our expert curators so you can get the most out of your vacation. Space is limited for all expeditions, so register today! Visit www.hmns.org/travel for trip itineraries and registration information. Register soon, spots are filling quickly!

Thursday, June 8, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Total Solar Eclipse: All-American Totality Casper, Wyoming August 19 - 22, 2017

Photo courtesy of Austin Madison

Dinosaur Excavation: The Black Hills of Wyoming with Peter Larson August 14 - 19, 2017 SOLD OUT! August 22 - 27, 2017

Whales, dolphins, porpoises and other marine mammals depend on sound to communicate, hunt food, navigate, breed and detect predators. Sonic Seas investigates how man-made industrial noise from shipping, seismic exploration and naval sonar impairs their survival and prosperity.

The human cast of Sonic Seas is made up of 18 research scientists, naval officers, industrial leaders and environmental advocates including Dr. Sylvia Earle, Jean-Michel Cousteau and Sting, who also produced the soundtrack.

Join marine biologist Heidi Whitehead of the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network for the premiere of Sonic Seas in Houston.

This is a one-night-only screening.

ROCKIN’ IT WITH JURASSIC JAMES

Get ready to rock out with geologist and paleontologist James Washington, HMNS staff trainer.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE

“Rocks and Minerals of the Ancient World” James Washington, HMNS Tuesday, May 16, 6:30 p.m.

Emphasizing the ancient Egyptians, Maya, Aztec, tribes of the Amazon, as well as the American Plains, Southwest, and Northeast—James Washington will explain the specific geologic conditions that gave humanity the building materials to create the mega structures, mythologies and wealth of the ancient world using pieces from the Museum’s exhibition halls as examples. Following the presentation, the audience will be invited to see a few select exhibits.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES SERIES Hall of Paleontology

Because the Morian Hall of Paleontology is too large to tour in one evening, we are bringing back this popular series that covers the hall section by section with James Washington—now expanded to 6 sessions. All sessions are Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m.

Earliest Life on Earth – July 5 Terrestrial Life Debuts – July 19 Dinosaurs of the Jurassic – August 2 Dinosaurs of the Cretaceous – August 16 The Reign of Mammals: Giants of the Pleistocene – August 30 The Age of Man: Primates and Humans – September 13 Tickets $25, Members $15 per session.

Early Bird Special: Purchase entire 6-session package by July 5 to receive discount pricing: Nonmembers $130, Members $70.

PERMANENT EXHIBIT HALLS WHAT IS THE COOLEST PLACE TO HANG OUT IN THE SUMMER? (Pun intended!)

The Houston Museum of Natural Science of course. You can keep your kiddos busy for days exploring the wonders of the natural world, and beat the Houston heat all at the same time.

Photo Credit: Ken Groue

HAMMAN HALL OF TEXAS COASTAL ECOLOGY 2nd floor

MORIAN HALL OF PALEONTOLOGY 1st floor, Dan L Duncan Family Wing

COMING SOON! WIESS ENERGY HALL 4th floor, Dan L Duncan Family Wing

HMNS PERMANENT EXHIBIT HALLS

Members receive free admission to all permanent exhibition halls and deeply discounted tickets to the Cockrell Butterfly Center.

Photo Credit: Ken Groue

BROWN HALL OF ENTOMOLOGY 2nd floor, Cockrell Butterfly Center

STRAKE HALL OF MALACOLOGY 2nd floor

COCKRELL BUTTERFLY CENTER 1st floor

CULLEN HALL OF GEMS AND MINERALS 2nd floor

WELCH HALL OF CHEMISTRY Lower Level

HALL OF ANCIENT EGYPT 3rd floor, Dan L Duncan Family Wing

Photo Credit: Ken Groue

JOHN P. MCGOVERN HALL OF THE AMERICAS 3rd floor

Photo Credit: Ken Groue

FARISH HALL OF TEXAS WILDLIFE 2nd floor

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www.hmns.org/permanent

FRENSLEY-GRAHAM HALL OF AFRICAN WILDLIFE 2nd floor

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS www.hmns.org/kids

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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.

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

Visit www.hmns.org/xplorations for complete camp information. To receive a printed Xplorations catalog by mail, please contact xplorations@hmns.org or (713) 639-4625.

Also new for 2017, we’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.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN

www.hmns.org/scouts SUMMER SCOUT ACADEMY 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.

SATURDAY SCOUT 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: May 13, May 20.

HMNS at Sugar Land: April 29.

BADGES ON DEMAND www.hmns.org/badgesondemand 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.

TEEN TECH 2017

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.

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.

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.

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www.hmns.org/kids

www.hmns.org/teentech Session 1: July 10 - 13 Session 2: July 31 - August 3

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

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. Complete schedule and registration information posted online at www.hmns.org/ summerscouts. E-mail scouts@hmns.org for more information.

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR www.hmns.org/calendar

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HMNS After Dark 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Wednesday, May 31 Wednesday, June 28

marine biology tour in the Strake Hall of Malacology, a.k.a. sea shells, will be featured on May 31, and Out of the Amazon on June 28.

For everyone who has wished for access to the Museum in the evenings after work, here’s your chance…

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 the glow of the moonlight!

Not just the permanent halls—the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Burke Baker Planetarium and all of our special exhibitions will be open! Plus, a special

M AY

Members receive free admission to the permanent exhibit halls.

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOP “Gladiator School” Tuesday, May 2, 5 p.m. (page 25)

EXHIBITION OPENS HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Sweet – A Tasty Journey Friday, May 12 (page 20)

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOP “Discovering Density” Tuesday, May 23, 5 p.m. (page 25)

MIXERS & ELIXIRS “May the Fourth Be With You!” Thursday, May 4, 7 - 10 p.m. (page 5)

2ND SATURDAY FOR MEMBERS Saturday, May 13, 8 a.m. (page 3)

DAY EXCURSION “Gulf Coast Shelling” Saturday, May 6, 7 a.m. (page 17)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Rocks and Minerals of the Ancient World” Tuesday, May 16, 6:30 p.m. (page 26)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Roman Legionnaires – The Soldiers of the Roman Empire” Tuesday, May 23, 6:30 p.m. (page 8)

EXHIBITION CLOSES HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Block Party Too! Last Day is May 7 DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Monarchs and Milkweed: Their Remarkable Story of Coevolution” Tuesday, May 9, 6:30 p.m. (page 15) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Fabergé: Royal Gifts featuring the Trellis Egg Surprise Mummies of the World: The Exhibition Wednesday, May 10, 6 p.m. (page 10, 9)

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Tourmaline Treasures Wildlife Photography of the Year Wednesday, May 17, 6 p.m. (page 16, 14) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Gladiators Thursday, May 18, 6 p.m. (page 8) MEMBERS NIGHT HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Sweet – A Tasty Journey Friday, May 19, 6 - 10 p.m. (page 23)

TAKE TWO Gladiator Friday, May 26, 7:15 p.m. (page 5) SENIOR SOCIAL FOR MEMBERS Wednesday, May 31, 9 a.m. (page 3) HMNS AFTER DARK Wednesday, May 31, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (page 30)

For tickets to all events, visit www

CATALYSTS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Yoga with the Dinosaurs Thursday, June 1, 6:30 p.m. (page 6)

JUNE EVENING FILM SCREENING Amazon Adventure Wednesday, June 14, 6:30 p.m. (page 19)

MEMBERS FIRST SCREENING Penguins 3D Friday, June 2; 1, 2, 3, 4 p.m. (page 3)

FAMILY EVENT GEORGE OBSERVATORY Baby Boomers for Kids Saturday, June 24, 11 a.m. - noon (page 24)

TAKE TWO Jaws Friday, June 16, 7:15 p.m. (page 5) EXHIBITION OPENS Faces from the Southern Ocean Opens Monday, June 19 (page 11)

FAMILY EVENT World Ocean’s Day Thursday, June 8, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (page 26) EVENING FILM SCREENING Sonic Seas Thursday, June 8, 6:30 p.m. (page 26) MEMBERS NIGHT GEORGE OBSERVATORY Friday, June 9, 8 - 10 p.m. (page 3) 2ND SATURDAY FOR MEMBERS Saturday, June 10, 8 a.m. (page 2) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Edge of Darkness” Tuesday, June 13, 6:30 p.m. (page 22)

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

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Gladiator Graffiti and Roman Blood Sport - Excavations at Aphrodisias” Tuesday, June 20, 6:30 p.m. (page 8) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Gladiators: Heroes of the Colosseum Mapping Texas: From Frontier to the Lone Star State Wednesday, June 21, 6 p.m. (page 8, 13)

FAMILY EVENT Pollination Celebration Sunday, June 25, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (page 15) EVENING FILM SCREENING & TOUR Penguins 3D and Faces from the Southern Ocean Tuesday, June 27, 6:30 p.m. (page 11) HMNS AFTER DARK Wednesday, June 28, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (page 30)

FAMILY EVENT HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Paleo Under the Microscope Thursday, June 22, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (page 21) MIXERS & ELIXIRS Mango Punch Friday, June 23, 7 - 10 p.m. (page 5) VIP EVENT GEORGE OBSERVATORY Starry Night: A VIP Experience Friday, June 23, 8 p.m. - midnight (page 24)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Asteroid Day 2017 – Impacting Asteroids in Texas” Thursday, June 29, 6:30 p.m. (page 22) TAKE TWO Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring Friday, June 30, 7:15 p.m. (page 5)

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DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Soldiers of Early Texas” Tuesday, June 6, 6:30 p.m. (page 13)

DAY EXCURSION Penguin Encounter Saturday, June 24, 2 p.m. (page 10)

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR

CHILDREN'S CRAFT NIGHT World Trekkers: Italy Friday, June 2, 6:30 p.m. (page 3)

FAMILY EVENT GEORGE OBSERVATORY Rocket Day for Kids Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. - noon (page 24)

POSTMASTER: Dated material enclosed.

Please deliver IMMEDIATELY!

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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.

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LAST DAY MAY 29 PAGE 10

NOW ON EXHIBITION PAGE 12

NOW SHOWING ON THE GIANT SCREEN PAGE 19

ONLY AT HMNS AT SUGAR LAND! PREMIERES FRIDAY, MAY 12

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