HMNS September/October 2018

news SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 VOLUME 23, NUMBER 5 w w w. h m n s . o r g

THE INSECT PHOTOGRAPHY OF LEVON BISS

NOW ON EXHIBITION

MEMBER ONLY EVENTS

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

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

MEMBERS APPRECIATION NIGHT

Friday, September 14, 6 - 9 p.m.

T U O SOLD

Join us as we celebrate you, our Members! Enjoy HMNS’ unique collection with your family, and experience the Museum like never before with hands-on activities, crafts and more. Free for Members!

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2nd 2ND SATURDAYS

Open Early for Members Only at 8 a.m.

Saturday, September 8 – Tours of the Morian Hall of Paleontology Saturday, October 13 – Tours of the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals 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.

The Museum’s permanent exhibit halls are always FREE for Members!

Each 2nd Saturday now features family programming from 9 a.m. to noon.

HMNS’ SENIOR SOCIAL

Wednesday, October 24, 9 a.m. - noon Spend the morning socializing with other seniors at HMNS! HMNS’ Senior Social is a quarterly event exclusively for HMNS’ senior members, ages 62 and up. Enjoy a light breakfast and an exclusive tour of the Death by Natural Causes exhibition during this special event for seniors only. Come and experience the Museum with us!

See page 23 for 2nd Saturdays at HMNS at Sugar Land.

EXTRA KID'S PASS PERK! New benefit with 2nd Saturday Kid's Pass!

Show your Kid's Pass at the Museum gift shop during each Museum visit to receive a FREE prize! A new prize is featured each month. Don't have a Kid's Pass? Pick one up ONLY during 2nd Saturday!

WORLD TREKKERS: EGYPT

Friday, November 9, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Enjoy a children’s event featuring entertainment, face painting, a balloon artist, crafts, activities and more. Bring your family to HMNS and you can travel the globe with World Trekkers! The perfect family outing, these events highlight a diverse set of cultures from around the world through entertainment, arts and crafts and more. This November, we’re heading off to Egypt. But no need to pack your bags—HMNS brings the world to you with World Trekkers!

UPGRADE YOUR MEMBERSHIP! 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!

FAMILY PLUS includes member benefits for two adults and four children, PLUS one additional adult or child.

FAMILY FLEX, DISCOVERER and BENEFACTOR level memberships now allow member benefits for ten people.

H M N S M E M B E R S O N LY 3

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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 Member Only Events 3 Membership Benefits 4 General Information 5 Trains Over Texas Excellence in Science 6 Sprits & Skeletons Special Event Snapshot

8-9 The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes 10-11 Death by Natural Causes 12 Microsculpture 13 Morian Hall of Paleontology 14 Curator's Choice 15 Life in Stone: In Memory of Gerd Dreher 16-17 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre

20 George Observatory 21 Cockrell Butterfly Center

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HMNS AT SUGAR LAND

MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS www.hmns.org/member Student, Senior, Individual, Dual, Family, Family Plus, Family Flex, Discoverer, Benefactor, 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

7 Travel with HMNS HMNS After Dark

18-19 Burke Baker Planetarium 2 4

HMNS MEMBERSHIP

22-23 HMNS at Sugar Land 24-25 Just For Kids 26-27 For Teachers 28 Adult Education 29 HMNS Catalysts Take Two 30-31 Events Calendar Sensory Friendly Event

GET CONNECTED TO HMNS

WWW.HMNS.ORG Natural.Science

@hmns

@hmns

naturalscience1

hmns

hmns_museum

hmns

blog.hmns.org

HMNS MAIN CAMPUS 5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030 (713) 639-4629 Monday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Labor Day Weekend Hours: September 1 - 3: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Check our website for film schedules and special closures.

FREE THURSDAYS Permanent Exhibit Halls and the Planetarium are FREE after 2 p.m. on Thursdays.

ACCESSIBILITY Wheelchairs are provided at no cost and subject to availability.

Closed Captioning is available at box office for most giant screen films.

Visit www.hmns.org/accessibility for information for visitors with autism spectrum disorders or download HMNS Access app. TTY (713) 639-4687.

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 Labor Day Hours: September 3: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FBISD County Fair Day: September 28: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FBISD Fall Break: October 19: 9 a.m. 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.

FIELD TRIPS

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

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

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

SPECIAL EVENT RENTALS

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

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

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

PARKING GARAGE Members received discounted rate.

All Aboard! Create holiday memories by traveling across Texas with Trains Over Texas. The multiple train models crisscrossing the state will visit important and unique places in the state’s geology and physiography. This exhibit (the size of a tennis court) is the largest indoor “O” scale model railroad in Texas. Don’t miss the third installment of this holiday tradition!

Trains Over Texas III will be located on the main floor of the Museum and will be free for HMNS Members. Local support for this exhibition is provided by the Carruth Foundation and the John P. McGovern Foundation.

Reserve a Custom Boxcar for Your Family!

Be a part of Trains Over Texas with your own customized boxcar! You can see your personized car making tracks in the Museum through the holiday season at HMNS.

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Tuesday, November 6 This event is chaired by all-stars Andrew Bosarge, David Frankfort, Kevin Lilly, Randy Hale, Bill Montgomery, Reed Morian and Tom Roupe.

Individual tickets and tables available. For ticket and table information visit www.hmns. org/scienceluncheon or contact ebrents@hmns.org.

www.hmns.org/boxcars • www.hmns.org/scienceluncheon

HMNS boxcars make excellent mementos and gifts. To order, visit www.hmns.org/boxcars starting Monday, October 1.

Become an MVP and support education programs at the Houston Museum of Natural Science at the 2018 Excellence in Science Luncheon with keynote speaker Reid Ryan, President of the Houston Astros, on Tuesday, November 6 at River Oaks Country Club. Join us as we honor local students and teachers, and learn how the Astros won the World Series on a shoestring budget.

HMNS TRAINS OVER TEXAS • EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE LUNCHEON

Trains Over Texas III Arriving at the station Friday, November 9.

HMNS SPRITS & SKELETONS • SPECIAL EVENT SNAPSHOT

SPIRITS & SKELETONS Halloween Mixer Spirits and Skeletons Saturday, October 27, 8 p.m. - midnight Calling all ghosts and ghouls, monsters and mummies, witches and werewolves: Houston’s favorite Halloween party—the one and only Spirits & Skeletons—is back at HMNS! The entire Museum is open for you to shake your stuff with a stegosaurus and get spellbound by bewitching gems—all to live music, two DJs and fantastic food trucks parked right outside.

Whether you go with scary and spooky, or fab and kooky—dress up and party the night away at HMNS. We’ll put a spell on you!

Featuring live music by Supernova.

Spirits and Skeletons is for adults 21 and over. Tickets $50, Members $25. Purchase tickets at www.hmns.org/spirits.

Contact groupsales@hmns.org for group and corporate rates.

www.rentthemuseum.com • www.hmns.org/sprits

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SPECIAL EVENT SNAPSHOT Don’t forget to book your holiday party! www.rentthemuseum.com • specialevents@hmns.org • (713) 639-4749

T R AV E L W I T H H M N S

Members-Only Early-Bird Registration Photo by Tony Rath

Maya Paradise: Jungle Adventure + Island Paradise April 1-11, 2019 www.hmns.org/travel In the footsteps of the ancient Maya, we visit their magical temple complexes, explore their bountiful rainforests, and enter their ceremonial underground cave systems.

Travel Night Tuesday, September 18, 6 p.m.

This evening you will meet trip leaders are archaeologist Dirk Van Tuerenhout, Ph.D., HMNS curator who has participated in excavations in

Wednesday, September 19 Wednesday, December 26 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

HMNS After Dark is back! The entire Museum will stay open until 9 p.m. Take a stroll, catch a flick and enjoy a wonderful evening out at the Museum.

Enjoy HMNS in the glow of the moonlight!

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www.hmns.org/travel • www.hmns.org/afterdark

We will visit the majestic Tikal on a day trip to Guatemala. We depart the jungle for the private-island paradise of South Water Caye to experience the magnificent coral reefs.

The different types of geologic formations along the coastline of Belize each houses a unique ecosystem, with different varieties of corals, sponges, crustaceans, mollusks and fishes native to the Caribbean.

The vibrant marine life can be viewed by leisurely snorkeling. (No SCUBA diving on this trip.)

Space is very limited. Those registering by October 18 receive a $250 discount. Registration opens to the public on October 19. Visit www.hmns.org/travel for trip itinerary, registration information and contact info for questions.

H M N S T R AV E L W I T H H M N S • H M N S A F T E R D A R K

Belize, and marine geologist André Droxler, Ph.D., of Rice University's Department of Earth Science and Baker Institute who has spent his career studying coral reefs and global change.

www.hmns.org/sherlock H M N S T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L E X H I B I T I O N O F S H E R L O C K H O L M E S

SPECIAL MEMBER PRICING

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On exhibition through Sunday, September 30, 2018

DISTINGUISHED LECTURES

Step back in time and meet the world’s most famous detective! Learn how fiction became fact as Sherlock Holmes’ practices and techniques, created in the mind of doctor-turned-author Conan Doyle, changed the way police work was conducted. Many of these remain in practice today.

“Jack the Ripper: Patterns and Confusion” D. Kim Rossmo, Ph.D., Criminologist Tuesday, September 11, 6:30 p.m.

Explore a Victorian train station as you learn about the technology of the time, including what was known about botany, optics and ballistics. Step into Holmes’ library at No. 221B Baker Street to hone your powers of observation. Several items are hidden in the room— how many can you find?

Once you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how improbable, must be the truth.

The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes is on display on the first floor of the Museum through Sunday, September 30, 2018. Members receive reduced admission.

This exhibition was developed by Exhibits Development Group and Geoffrey M. Curley + Associates in collaboration with the Conan Doyle Estate Ltd., Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and the Museum of London. Local support provided by the John P. McGovern Foundation.

Pioneer of cutting-edge geographic profiling techniques, Dr. Kim Rossmo will use the case of the Whitechapel murders and Jack the Ripper in Victorian London to illustrate modern police investigative strategies including geography of crime theory, offender hunting behavior, crime site typology, and investigative strategies. Then Rossmo will deconstruct the processes used in the past which led to “wrongful convictions.” Dr. Kim Rossmo is the Chair in and the Director of the Center for Geospatial Intelligence and Investigation in the Department of Criminal Justice at Texas State University.

“Facing the Past – Cases in Forensic Sculpture” Amanda Danning, Forensic Sculptor Tuesday, September 25, 6:30 p.m.

Forensic sculptor Amanda Danning performs facial reconstructions on skulls whose true appearance is unknown. She has worked on the most exciting anthropology finds in North America as well as contemporary criminal cases. Danning's captivating presentation will combine history and technology, forensics and art—wrapped-up in brilliant visuals with powerful storytelling. Nationally recognized, her works have been featured in numerous books, articles and television programs. Over 100 of her sculptures are on display in the United States, including HMNS.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS www.hmns.org/bts Wednesday, September 12, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, September 26, 6 p.m.

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www.hmns.org/sherlock

Then work side-by-side with the legendary character himself and put your newfound knowledge and sharp eye for detail to the test as you follow the clues, analyze evidence, conduct experiments, record results, draw conclusions and solve the crime!

www.hmns.org/lectures

H M N S T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L E X H I B I T I O N O F S H E R L O C K H O L M E S

DON’T MISS THIS EXHIBITION BEFORE THE CASE IS CLOSED!

H M N S D E AT H B Y N AT U R A L C A U S E S www.hmns.org/DBNC

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By popular demand, Death by Natural Causes has been extended through January 6, 2019 In 1898, Marie Curie discovered a new element that emitted a type of energy not visible to the naked eye. She named the element radium and the invisible energy radioactivity. Initially, the public only understood that radioactive atoms had “extra” energy and consequently radioactive materials, like radium, were added to a diverse range of products including patent medicines, chocolates, cosmetics, condoms, shoe polish, dairy products and hair products.

That there was not a greater death toll from these products is explained partially by marketers wanting to capitalize on the shining appeal of radium, but not incur the added expense.

A particular product, marketed as Undark, became popular for clock and watch dials as it made them visible at night. Since the paint had to be applied to each numeral by hand, a booming industry developed, employing nearly exclusively women.

Managers and other workers in the plants where Undark was manufactured knew about potential health dangers of the radioactive paint, but the dial painters were told the paint was harmless.

Creating a fine point on the brush using the saliva in their mouths, the routine for the women was “lip, dip, paint.” Workers were paid about a penny and a half per dial and would complete hundreds of them during a shift. Consequently, 4,000 women,

who later became known as the Radium Girls, were poisoned. Radium poisoning is horrific. Our bodies easily incorporate radium into our bones because it is chemically similar to calcium. The presence of radium in the body results in tumors, anemia and the disintegration of the skeleton to such a degree that people are crushed under their own weight.

These women brought suit against the companies and overcame appalling efforts to prevent the litigation by industry and government officials. Their sacrifice created landmark rulings we take for granted today, such as the right to sue employers for unsafe working conditions. The case ultimately created OSHA, the government agency tasked with ensuring worker safety. The actual death toll for these women is unknown.

One of the most common sources of radiation exposure today is through smoking cigarettes. The FDA’s list of hazardous compounds in cigarette smoke include polonium-210, uranium-235 and uranium-238.

To view some radium-infused products and learn more about the dangers of radiation poisoning, visit Death by Natural Causes!

Death by Natural Causes is located on the third floor of the Dan L Duncan Wing. This exhibition was organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

Local support for the exhibition is provided by the Harriet and Truett Latimer Endowment Fund and the John P. McGovern Foundation. Members receive reduced admission. Due to the content of the exhibit, it is recommended for visitors aged ten and up. Audio guide is available on your smart phone.

H M N S D E AT H B Y N AT U R A L C A U S E S

SPECIAL MEMBER PRICING

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www.hmns.org/bts Wednesday, September 12, 6 p.m.

CULTURAL FEAST www.hmss.org/feasts “Chemistry of the Cocktail3 – A Culinary Apothecary” Tuesday, October 23, 7 p.m.

Hosted at Brennan’s This third installment of HMNS Chemistry of the Cocktail features mixologist Richard Middleton and culinary historian Merrianne Timko will examine medicinal spirits and gastronomy. Our diners will also learn of historic antidotes and defensive dining through the centuries.

www.hmns.org/DBNC

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR

THE INSECT PHOTOGRAPHY OF LEVON BISS

NOW ON EXHIBITION

HMNS MICROSCULPTURE

Creepy. Crawly. Captivating.

Captivating? Yes, captivating!

www.hmns.org/microsculpture

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Marvel at the silhouette of the Branch-backed Treehopper. Its shape may provide camouflage, but the structures may be functional as well.

From the iridescent Tricolored Jewel Beetle to the otherworldly Amazonian Purple Warrior Scarab Beetle to the subtle shading of the Dead Leaf Grasshopper, the wonders of the insect world come alive in Microsculpture: The Insect Photography of Levon Biss. This unique exhibition showcases the variety and beauty of creatures many would prefer not to see. Photographed in minute detail and enlarged hundreds of times larger than life, these insects were selected from Oxford University Museum of Natural History’s extensive entomology collections both for their beauty and to show their adaptations to their environments.

Microsculpture: The Insect Photography of Levon Biss is free for members. It is on view on the third floor of the Dan L Duncan Wing until January 13. The exhibition was organized by Levon Biss with the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and The University of Oxford, Oxford, England. The Houston presentation is generously supported by the John P. McGovern Foundation.

Notice the scales of the Flying Saucer Trench Beetle, native to the Namib Desert; they enable the beetle to harvest water from fog, an important adaptation to a desert environment.

Characteristics and adaptations of these unique and misunderstood creatures will be explored by Erin Mills, Director of the Cockrell Butterfly Center. Living exotic beetles, giant

FREE FOR MEMBERS

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE www.hmns.org/lectures “Beauty and Morphology of Insects” Erin Mills, Director of Cockrell Butterfly Center Wednesday, October 3, 6:30 p.m.

katydids, walking sticks, hissing cockroaches, beautiful butterflies and other exciting arthropods will compliment this special presentation and tour of this special exhibition.

HANDS-ON ADULT CLASS www.hmns.org/aedclasses “Insect Mounting” Saturday, September 29, 9:30 a.m.

Insects are fascinating and beautiful creatures that dominate almost every habitat on Earth.

With their spectacular array of sizes, shapes and colors, they can make an interesting and unique memento that can last a lifetime.

In this class, Cockrell Butterfly Center director, entomologist Erin Mills, will walk you through basic techniques including collection, identification, relaxation, pinning and mounting.

Whether you’re interest in insects is scientific or artistic, you are sure to enjoy this class! Supplies and insects for pinning and mounting will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own as well.

MORIAN HALL OF PALEONTOLOGY New Fossil Preparation Lab Opens Labor Day Weekend

A great amount of patient and painstaking work is required to tease the fossil from the surrounding rock and prepare them for display. This process takes many hours that can add up to days, weeks, months or even years.

However, beginning Labor Day, a new Fossil Preparation Lab will open inside the Morian Hall of Paleontology for visitors to see paleontology in action.

Discover the types of tools and techniques used to prepare fossils that vary in complexity—from a carbide steel needle removing rock

FREE FOR MEMBERS

DISTINGUISHED LECTURES www.hmns.org/lectures “New Tech in Fossil Prep” David Temple, HMNS Paleontologist Tuesday, October 9, 6:30 p.m.

Recent advances in fossil preparation have led scientists to uncover incredible detail in fossils that until now where not thought possible.

HMNS paleontologist David Temple will review these new technologies and the amazing findings they have brought to science—including soft tissue, microscopic blood cells, fine feathers and more.

“The World within Permian Period Fossils: Histologic Studies” Steven J. Norris, Ph.D., Pathologist Wednesday, November 14, 6:30 p.m.

Excavations in Seymour, Texas, brought HMNS fossilized bones of

In this journey through a microscopic world, you will see how these ancient animals were different, yet remarkably similar, to us. Professor Steven J. Norris, Ph.D. is vice chair for research in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the McGovern Medical School at UT Health, Houston.

He has been part of the HMNS Paleontology team since 2014.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS www.hmns.org/bts “Fossil Prep Lab Tour and Class” David Temple, HMNS Paleontologist Wednesday, November 7, 6 p.m.

In a process broadly called “preparation,” fossils are carefully extracted from their encapsulating matrix. Depending on the type of fossil and the rock surrounding it, many different techniques are employed. In this hands-on tour of the new HMNS Fossil Prep Lab, you can try your hand at various techniques paleontologists use to take fossils from excavation to exhibition.

“Paleo Hall - The Reign of Mammals: Giants of the Pleistocene” James Washington Wednesday, September 5, 6 p.m.

“Paleo Hall - The Age of Man: Primates and Humans” James Washington Wednesday, September 26, 6 p.m.

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www.hmns.org/paleo

Typically Museum staff and volunteers work behind closed doors. Our staff and volunteers have amassed thousands of hours extracting fossils from their surrounding rock, particularly from our Permian site in Texas.

Come watch the paleontologists work in their new lab—they have a bone to pick with you! The Morian Hall of Paleontology and Fossil Prep Lab viewing is free for Members.

sail-backed reptiles, amphibians with boomerang-shaped heads, and many other beasts from over 280 million years ago. Dr. Steven Norris will take us inside these fossils. His powerful microscopes and chemicals have revealed blood vessels, layers of tissue building blocks, and caves where ancient cells lived.

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

HMNS is the proud home of the Morian Hall of Paleontology with a world-class collection of fossils, but the magnificent displays don't tell the whole story. Most spectacular fossils are not found as you see them on display in museums.

one grain at a time to air scribes that resemble jack hammers and sandblasters, only on a more miniature and delicate scale.

H M N S C U R AT O R ’ S C H O I C E

Curator’s Choice Spotlight: Bison Skull with Embedded Arrowhead

This Bison skull is rare evidence of the interaction between Plains Indians and Bison, with an arrowhead embedded in the skull. For millennia, there was a typical predator-prey mutualism where Plains Indians would kill off

Museum of Natural Science and admission is free for HMNS Members.

It is located in the Jones Gallery on the main floor. It is supported by the John P. McGovern Foundation.

During the 1800s, professional Bison hunters shot hundreds daily until their gun barrels were too hot to use. Most Bison were killed for their tongues and hides but their remains were left behind to rot on the prairie. Today, the global population of Bison is considered “near threatened” and is around half a million animals.

Curator’s Choice: Recent Acquisitions of the Houston Museum of Natural Science is organized by the Houston

www.hmns.org/curatorschoice

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In 1845, John Woodhouse Audubon— John James Audubon’s son—studied, then collected and painted a Red Wolf (Canis rufus) on Buffalo Bayou, near what is today downtown Houston.

The wolf was sniffing a Bison horn, as Bison were present in the region at that time. Unfortunately, Bison were extinct statewide prior to 1880, but populations were reintroduced from elsewhere in North America onto private ranches and reserves.

weak and sick Bison to keep the populations strong and healthy, and in return the Indians obtained a valued source of protein and hides for warmth and shelter. This symbiotic relationship took place for many years until Anglos began over-hunting Bison, leading to their local extinction in many regions.

FREE FOR MEMBERS

Photos by Ken Groue

HMNS LIFE IN STONE: IN MEMORY OF GERD DREHER

FREE FOR MEMBERS

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From a pouncing cat to a regal silverback gorilla to a playful bear to a resplendent peacock, the animal carvings showcased in Life in Stone, In Memory of Gerd Dreher seem poised to come to life. Carved by master craftsman Gerd Dreher, these incredibly lifelike sculptures are some of the most sought-after in the lapidary world.

To ensure his creations were as lifelike as possible, Dreher compiled an image library of thousands of photographs and videos of animals.

He also paid particular attention

to the eyes to make certain they reflected the character of the rest of the carving. Dreher’s understanding of the full range of motion that plants and animals possess and his devotion to natural realism sets his carvings apart from others.

The Dreher family has been engraving and carving gemstones for more than one hundred years.

Gerd Dreher’s great-grandfather Karl founded the tradition, which has been handed down from father to son over generations. Gerd’s son Patrick represents the fifth generation and continues the legacy to this day.

Life in Stone, In Memory of Gerd Dreher was organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It is on display in the Hamill Gallery on the main floor. Admission is free for Museum members. Local support provided by The John P. McGovern Foundation.

LECTURE & TOUR www.hmns.org/lectures “Gem Carvings of Gerd Dreher” Tuesday, November 27, 6:30 p.m.

www.hmns.org/exhibits

NOW ON EXHIBITION

SPECIAL MEMBER PRICING

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

Our six-story tall giant screen surrounds you with the most stunning scenery on the planet. We will take you soaring through space, and put you face to face with Earth’s most fascinating animals.

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

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Your patronage supports science education!

Your theatre ticket purchase helps fund the Museum’s exhibit and education programs. The films we show support our mission to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone. Thank you for supporting the HMNS Wortham Giant Screen Theatre!

FILM FESTIVAL

“It’s a Wild, Wild World” September 1 - 30 30 FUN DAYS. 10 GREAT FILMS. 1 BIG SCREEN. September brings the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre’s Film Festival—our magnificent celebration of what giant screen movies do best. Taking place between Saturday, September 1 and Sunday, September 30, it showcases the best of the biggest films featuring Earth’s wildlife. From critters that live beneath the sea to giant predators that roam on land, this festival celebrates all living creatures in a big way.

Whether you like your wildlife cute and cuddly (penguins, pandas, chipmunks), graceful and poetic (dolphins, butterflies) or intense and roaring (sharks, lions), there is a film for you in Houston’s most immersive, inspiring environment imaginable. In a world where our phones reduce entertainment to the size of our palms, that is the wonder of our giant screen: it makes your world giant again.

Visit www.hmns.org/giantscreen for films, show times and closed captioning availability.

COME FOR THE MOVIE, STAY FOR THE FACTS

Avatar 3D (2009) E with Erin Mills, HMNS Director Cockrell Butterfly Center Wednesday, September 19, 7 p.m.

Avatar still ranks as the #1 highest grossing film of all time. If you somehow never saw it or you want to see it for the 10th time, please take this rare opportunity to see it in a setting meant for 3D and on a screen that is 60 feet high by 80 feet wide. Box office sales aside, it is an important educational

experience that everyone will enjoy again. Special pricing applies. Visit www.hmns.org/avatar for tickets.

In addition to discussing the film, Erin Mills, Director of the Cockrell Butterfly Center, will enchant or possibly even scare you with her touch cart selection of rainforest bugs.

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

SCREEN THEATRE

mes and more information about each film.

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 17

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

NEW!

Volcanos: The Fires of Creation Opens Tuesday, October 15 Volcanoes is a tale of science, culture, and thrilling adventure.

Audiences will be on the edge of their seats as scientists and explorers discover molten worlds and erupting craters in this adrenaline-filled immersive experience.

With over 500 active volcanoes, our Earth is bursting at the seams with the forces of mass construction. The story of volcanoes is the story of Earth’s creation, and the story of us.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE

“Volcanoes, Life and Energy” Cin-Ty Lee, Ph.D., Geologist/Petrologist/Geochemist Tuesday, October 2, 6:30 p.m.

Professor Lee is chair of the Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences at Rice University.

Visit www.hmns.org/lectures for more details.

EVENING FILM SCREENING Volcanos: The Fires of Creation with Cin-Ty Lee, Ph.D. Tuesday, October 30, 6:30 p.m.

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

SPECIAL MEMBER PRICING

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

ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 4TH GRADER? As the school year begins, let’s take a look at what 4th graders know when they visit the Burke Baker Planetarium and how much more they learn during the program.

4. It is warmer in the summer because the Sun is:

See how well you can answer these questions about astronomy concepts before you read the answers below.

Also guess which questions were hardest for 4th graders and what misconceptions they had.

C. higher in the sky

We collected the data using clickers that students wear on lanyards around their necks. This program, complete with clickers, is available for schools to schedule at any show time on weekdays during the school year.

Sharpen your pencils. Here we go!

www.hmns.org/planetarium

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1. The Sun appears to move across the sky each day because the:

A. closer to the Earth B. farther away from Earth D. lower in the sky 5. Does the moon have gravity?

A. No B. Yes C. Sometimes D. Only at full moon 6. How does the Sun seem to move across the sky?

A. from East to West B. from West to East C. from North to South D. from South to North

A. Sun circles the Earth B. Earth spins on its axis C. Moon spins on its axis D. Earth circles the Sun 2. On a sunny day, a sundial’s shadow: A. does not move B. points south C. is longest at noon D. moves from one side to the other 3. Which moon phase would appear next after full moon?

A. new moon B. third quarter C. waning gibbous D. waning crescent

Unlike question #4, this question is much harder to teach. After the planetarium program, 47% of the students knew that the Earth’s rotation causes the Sun’s apparent daily motion, but over 50% still did not know the correct answer.

Just over 40% of 4th graders answered questions #3, #5, and #6 correctly.

The Sun seems to move from east to west across the sky (A). The Moon does have gravity (B). And the moon phase that follows the full moon is the waning gibbous (C).

Drumroll please… The hardest question is #4! Over 69% of 4th graders think that it is hotter in summer because we are closer to the Sun. Only 7% (less than the random sampling) chose the correct answer (C): the Sun is higher in the sky in summer.

Over 80% of fourth graders answered questions #5 and #6 correctly after the 30-minute planetarium program. Only 65% knew which moon phase follows the full moon after seeing the pattern reproduced 4 different ways during the planetarium show.

After the 30-minute Planetarium program, over 80% of students knew that the changing height of the sun causes the seasons and that the tilt of the Earth’s axis causes the Sun’s height in the sky to change.

These 4th graders were from a good sampling of schools representing a cross section of all 4th graders in Houston. How about one last bonus question as we approach the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11?

Almost as hard is question #1. The Sun appears to move across the sky each day because the Earth spins on its axis (B). Only 35% of 4th graders gave the correct answer. Over 48% thought that the Sun moves across the sky because the Earth circles the Sun.

On Earth we see the Moon rising the east and setting in the west and it goes through phases every month.

How does the Earth move each day in the sky of the moon? For the answer, wait for the November-December HMNS News when we begin our Apollo celebration.

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 19

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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Early fall brings excellent views of Saturn and Mars as well as the Summer Milky Way and its beautiful celestial objects. The great square of Pegasus and the Andromeda galaxy are favorites in addition to Cygnus the Swan and Queen Cassiopeia. Cooler evening temperatures and earlier sunset times make it a fun time to come enjoy stargazing at the George Observatory.

ASTRONOMY DAY 2018

Saturday, September 15, 3 - 10 p.m.

Fun-filled stellar festivities begin in the afternoon and become even livelier after dark when the stars begin to shine. Take a simulated space mission in the Expedition Center, view sunspots in the daytime through filtered telescopes, explore the numerous indoor displays, meet

local astronomy clubs, learn how to purchase and use telescopes, hear astronomy presentations, participate in children’s crafts, receive a guided tour of the constellations from the Observatory deck, and peer through dozens of telescopes—even our large professional research telescopes.

This family event is sponsored by local astronomy clubs, NASA organizations and the HMNS George Observatory. This event is free with Brazos Bend State Park entrance fee. For more information, visit www.astronomyday.net.

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.

Saturday, October 6, 9 a.m. - noon

to try. Monitoring routes can be in cities, in nature areas or parks, or even in local gardens and neighborhoods.

The Texas Butterfly Monitoring Network is a Citizen Science Project started this year in cooperation with the greater North American Butterfly Monitoring Network. Participants walk the same route at least nine times over the course of the year and record every butterfly seen, giving us a comprehensive picture of which butterflies are occurring where throughout the Lone Star State.

The collected data will help advise butterfly conservation plans and will provide scientists with muchneeded long-term data, but the activity is also fun and enriching for participants. Interested parties should email Kathryn Hokamp, the Cockrell Butterfly Center Lepidopterist, at khokamp@hmns.org or should call (713) 639-4750.

Texas has more butterflies than any other state in the United States, so long-term monitoring is crucial to understanding butterfly moment and assessing the health of butterfly habitats.

The Texas Butterfly Monitoring Network is designed for both seasoned observers of butterflies and newly interested people just starting butterfly observations! There are resources provided for new members to learn about their butterfly, and butterfly watchers of any level are encouraged

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Tuesday, September 18, 6 p.m.

HMNS entomologists and horticulturists will take you behind the scenes of the containment room and rooftop greenhouses—areas not open to the public—where staff care for the Museum's butterflies, caterpillars, other arthropods and several different plant species. In addition to the behind-the-scenes zones, you will also tour the Cockrell Butterfly Center rainforest and Brown Hall of Entomology.

OKTOBERPEST Saturday, October 20, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Free for Members It’s your chance to get some bug love! We’ve planned an entire day of activities where you and your family can celebrate the fascinating world of bugs. It’s free with your ticket to the Cockrell Butterfly Center.

Members receive free admission and can pick up their complimentary tickets at the box office.

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www.hmns.org/butterflycenter

TEXAS BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION NETWORK

Interested in Butterfly Gardening? The perfect opportunity to get started awaits you twice each year, at the Cockrell Butterfly Center’s semi-annual plant sales! Once in spring and once in fall, we offer a wide variety of nectar plants for butterflies and host plants for their caterpillars. Plenty of experts are on hand to answer your butterfly gardening questions and help you to create the perfect butterfly habitat— right in your own backyard.

Don’t miss the chance to embrace this wonderful hobby, or to add new varieties to an established garden.

Come early for the best selection; plants go quickly. This year the sale is outside of the main Museum entrance on the lawn area.

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

FALL PLANT SALE

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

HMNS AT S U

www.hmns.org/sugarland

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Visitors of all ages will delight in discovering mysterious items from around the globe, in Collection of History, Mystery and Wonder.

The special exhibit hall has been transformed into six chambers, each featuring a different theme, with touchable items on the shelves and 90 drawers to be opened and explored.

SPECIAL MEMBER PRICING

Try to choose your favorite room or drawer or touch the paw of a lion‌ there’s something new and different around each corner!

U GAR L AND FOSSIL WASH DAY

Saturday, September 15, 9 a.m. - noon Free for Members

And what about costumes? Be sure to get creative and wear your best costume for the Grand Costume Contest, with prizes to be won! It’s a spooky Saturday you won’t forget!

JINGLE TREE 2018

2ND SATURDAYS AT SUGAR LAND

Saturday, September 8, 10 - 11 a.m.

Saturday, October 13, 10 - 11 a.m.

TRICKS, TREATS & T-REX! “Magical Maze Festival” Saturday, October 27, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Join us for Tricks, Treats & T-Rex at the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land. Every young pirate and princess will enjoy the festival fun, including carnival games,

Earth’s destiny changed forever in 2018 when the first alien ship landed.

Decades later, after the first interstellar journeys launched humanity into a new age of exploration, new settlements were established across the galaxy.

In 2117, all contact is lost with the outer colonies and search parties are sent out. Fear trickles down your spine as you go off-planet to an abandoned outpost and hunt through the space station for answers. Glancing around nervously, you explore silent, empty corridors—is that someone following you? You see nothing but the feeling remains…

Our family-friendly haunted house is back to usher in the horrors of an outof-this-world Halloween with all-new chills! Explore every creepy corner— you have the Museum to yourself… or do you? Recommended for ages 7+.

Friday, November 9 VIP Tree Lighting Join us for the first reveal of our beautifully decorated trees and holiday décor, now open for bidding!

Tuesday, November 13 Bring the Bling A morning event featuring holiday decorating demonstrations—learn how to make the season magical for the ones you care about most.

Thursday, November 15 Happiest Happy Hour A relaxed cocktail party—join us to enjoy drinks and lite bites, watch the bidding close on trees and holiday décor, and celebrate the season with museum supporters.

Saturday, December 8 Cookies with Santa A family-oriented event, featuring a photo stop with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, a cookies and milk break, and fun with crafts and activities in Santa Land.

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www.hmns.org/sugarland

Members enjoy a special activity during each 2nd Saturday at HMNS at Sugar Land. Don’t forget your Kid’s Pass to get a special prize! 2nd Saturday at Sugar Land features family programming from 10 - 11 a.m.

“T3 HAUNTED HOUSE” Friday, October 26, 7 - 10 p.m.

Saturday, October 27, 7 - 10 p.m.

Save the date for this year's Jingle Tree events at The Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land!

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

Wash, rinse, repeat! Play a hands-on role in the scientific process, searching for bone fragments and objects of interest in dirt excavated from the HMNS dig site near Seymour, Texas.

Join us for a morning of fun as we get messy, washing and sorting approximately 1,000 pounds of red Permian dirt, included with regular admission. Wear clothes you won’t mind getting dirty as you learn about paleontology from specially trained docents.

trick or treating, a pumpkin patch, face painting, and more. You can even walk through the haunted house, if you dare!

www.hmns.org/scouts

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

Generously supported by Occidental Petroleum

www.hmns.org/kids

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A wide array of badges and classes for all ages of Boy and Girl Scouts are offered at HMNS on Saturdays through the school year. In addition, there are great Scout events for you to attend with your troop.

STEM/Nova Day Cubs, Webelos and Boy Scouts Saturday, September 22 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

STEM Professional Booths will also be available to offer Scouts interaction with professionals in various STEM careers as well additional activities and demonstrations. Scouts can sign up for optional STEM adventure classes in the afternoon. For more information on the STEM/Nova Day, including participating as a STEM professional, please email scouts@hmns.org.

NEW! STEM Professional Booths

Scouts and their families can enjoy this open-house style event while Cubs, Webelos and Boy Scouts work toward requirements for STEM/Nova Awards using Museum exhibits, shows and activities. STEM/Nova Scouts receive discounted Museum admission.

DINO DISCOVERY DAY Saturday, November 3, 9 - 11:30 a.m.

Treat your aspiring Paleontologist to breakfast, a lecture and Paleo activities with the Museum’s very own Associate Curator of Paleontology, David Temple.

Talk with scouts and their families about science, technology, engineering and math by hosting a STEM Professional Booth! At each booth, organizations will have a STEM activity or demonstration to share

After enjoying a full breakfast on the Morian Overlook with a stunning view of the dinosaurs below, Dave will give an entertaining and educational talk as well as host several Paleo activities in the Moran Lecture Hall.

with STEM/Nova participants as well as the general public visiting HMNS on STEM/Nova Day. Register for a booth

by September 7.

For more information on hosting a STEM Professional Booth and to download an application, please visit www.hmns.org/stemnova-day.

Reserve your spot now! For tickets, please call (713) 639-4629. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Children under 1 admitted free.

Tickets $45, Members $35.

BIRTHDAYS WITH A LITTLE BRAIN POWER! www.hmns.org/birthdays

We have themes for all ages and interests: Dinosaur, Ancient Egypt, Butterfly/Bugs, Astronomy, Wildlife and Expedition. Be sure to check out

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

For Sugar Land parties, visit www. hmns.org/sugarlandbirthdays for more information!

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

Let HMNS handle all of your birthday party planning—the decorations, entertainment, craft project, party coordinator and more!

our NEW Energy theme highlighting our state-of-the-art Wiess Energy Hall. Deluxe packages also available: Partysaurus, Winged Wonderland, Galactic Gathering, Deluxe Wildlife, Deluxe Egypt.

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www.hmns.org/kids

BACK TO SCHOOL SCIENCE KITS From basic magnets to advanced chemistry—HMNS has science kits, experiments and workbooks for every age and every level. All available in the Museum Store. museumstore.hmns.org

FOR TEACHER Department at (713) 639-4651 or e-mail sstevenson@hmns.org with any questions.

EDUCATOR LATE NIGHT

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

“Forensics across the Curriculum” Friday, October 5, 5 - 11 p.m.

www.hmns.org/education

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2018-2019 EDUCATOR’S GUIDE The Educator’s Guide is hot off the press! Add HMNS’ three locations to your blueprint for success by viewing the Educator’s Guide online at www.hmns.org/educatorguide or emailing educationquestions@hmns. org to receive your own copy!

EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE OR MATHEMATICS AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS Deadline extended until September 14, 2018 Through the generosity of the Cockrell Foundation, HMNS annually awards the Evelyn Frensley Scholarship for Outstanding Achievement in Science or Mathematics to two high school juniors in the Houston area, and the Wilhelmina C. Robertson Excellence in Science or Mathematics Teaching Award to one K - 5th grade science or math teacher and one 6th - 12th grade science or math teacher.

The deadline to nominate a student or a teacher is September 14, 2018.

Nomination forms are posted at www.hmns.org/awards-scholarships.

Please contact the HMNS Education

From the history of forensic science and the physics of blood spatter to the finer points of art fraud and writing clear scene descriptions, forensic science is the perfect platform for creating an engaging cross-curricular experience for your students. During this after-hours experience, educators will work on hands-on activities to use in your classroom, enjoy a catered dinner, and tour exhibitions.

Participants receive dinner and 6 hours of CPE credit.

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.

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

LABS ON DEMAND Need help with a TEKS objective? Want a lab experience for your field trip?

Each lab is tailored to your grade level. $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, and Dissection.

For more information on booking a Lab on Demand for your group please email educationquestions@hmns.org.

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

These self-contained investigations feature Museum specimens, artifacts and laboratory equipment. Students examine ancient objects, investigate technology, meet live animals and conduct scientific experiments in five different, themed labs.

Each lab is one hour long and includes admission to the Museum’s permanent exhibit halls. Available at HMNS in Hermann Park all month and the select listed dates at HMNS at Sugar Land.

Capacity is 25 students per lab. Cost per lab is $200 - $250. Visit www.hmns. org/weekdaylabs for the Weekday Lab schedule for the 2018-2019 school year.

SEPTEMBER LAB TOPICS Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 South American Adventure Rainforests! Grasslands! Deserts!

Savannahs! South America has it all! Take your imagination on a trek through some of the most famous habitats in the world as we study South American wildlife. (September 27 in Sugar Land)

RS

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

Dissection Lab, Grades 5-10 Colossal Calamari - What animal uses jet propulsion and has its own ink supply? Discover this and more as you delve deep into this intriguing cephalopod, the squid. Includes squid dissection. (September 28 in Sugar Land)

number of new skills and then use those skills in a group setting to solve challenges related to TEKS-based objectives.

At the end of each workshop, participants will receive 4 hours of CPE credit, a kit of materials to take back to the classroom to use in their own Maker Lab, curriculum and a coupon for discounted parking. To ensure credit, participants should arrive by 8 a.m.

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 Optical Illusions - Investigate ambiguous pictures, impossible shapes, strobe effects and other amazing illusions.

OCTOBER LAB TOPICS Time Lab, Grades 1-8 Garbology - Archaeologists love garbage! Come discover the story that can be told by studying the trash that ancient people left behind. (October 25 in Sugar Land)

Southwestern Energy Earth Science Lab, Grades 1-8 Bright Side of the Moon - Explore the phases of the moon and find out what causes it to wax and wane over the course of a month.

Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 Great Barrier Reef - This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses beneficial corals, migratory vertebrates, nefarious sponges and more. Dive into the intricate relationships between these species in this lab. (November 15 in Sugar Land)

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ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 Balancing Act - From levers and mobiles to leaning towers, explore the center of mass, and find out why it matters. (November 16 in Sugar Land)

“Educator Maker Lab Beyond Basic Butterflies” Saturday, September 29, 8 a.m. - noon

Time Lab, Grades 1-8 Ancient Greece by the Numbers Meet the revolutionary mathematical thinkers from ancient Greece from Hypatia to Pythagoras and beyond.

Acquire new skills and take your butterfly lessons beyond adaptations by learning how to pin a butterfly, create class specimens and start a small space butterfly garden.

EXXONMOBIL EDUCATOR MAKER LABS

“Educator Maker Lab DIY Classroom Tech” Saturday, November 10, 8 a.m. - noon

ExxonMobil Educator Maker Labs are intended to engage learners in problem based, open-ended activities that naturally encourage high-level learning, cooperation and problemsolving. Participants will learn a

Technology doesn't have to be expensive! In this workshop you will make your own smartphone microscope, create a working lamp and more!

www.hmns.org/education

Dissection Lab, Grades 5-10 Raining Ranids - A classic example of vertebrate anatomy, the frog still has a few surprises in store. Find out what’s weird about these lean bug-eating machines. Includes frog dissection.

(October 26 in Sugar Land)

NOVEMBER LAB TOPICS

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

DISTINGUISHED LECTURES www.hmns.org/lectures

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

New Lecture Pricing!

We are raising AND lowering ticket prices! Tickets purchased a week prior to the lecture will receive early-bird discount price of $10 for Members, $16 nonmembers. Regular price is $14 members, $20 nonmembers.

www.hmns.org/adults

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More lectures listings: Sherlock Holmes on page 9 Entomology page 12 Volcanos on page 17 “DNA and Our Ancestors: The Story of Us” Michael Hammer, University of Arizona Genetics Core Thursday, September 20, 6:30 p.m.

DNA has changed how we view the world, but there is so much more to learn. What does DNA have to say about our Neandertal or Denisovan origins, or about our ethnic heritage?

What will the technology allow us to learn in the future? Biotechnology research scientist Michael Hammer will discuss DNA, our ancestors and us.

This lecture is co-sponsored by AIA, Houston Society with support from Family Tree DNA. “How to Walk on Water and Climb up Walls - Animal Movement and the Robots of the Future” David L. Hu, Ph.D., Georgia Institute of Technology Tuesday, October 16, 6:30 p.m.

Animals have adapted and evolved to traverse their environments, taking advantage of physical laws with results that are startling and ingenious. Mechanical engineer and biologist David L. Hu will demystify the remarkable mechanics behind animal locomotion and show how new discoveries in animal mechanics are inspiring scientists to invent robots and devices that move with similar

elegance and efficiency. Special robotics demonstration by Spectrum #3847 before the lecture. Book signing following lecture.

FAMILY TALK

SKIN SCIENCE

Anthropologist and biologist Dr. Nina Jablonski will explain why humans have different skins, and how people's thinking about skin color has changed throughout history. Book signing of her new children’s book Skin We are In will follow the presentation. This lecture is co-sponsored by The Leakey Foundation. Recommended for ages 13 and up. FREE with Museum admission.

“Through the Looking Glass: Pigment, Patterns and Healthcare” Sharad Paul, M.D., Auckland University of Technology Thursday, September 13, 6:30 p.m.

"Why is skin a looking glass? Because one cannot have bad health and good skin." Drawing on his widelyacclaimed book, The Genetics of Health, Professor Sharad Paul, M.D. will share his uniquely creative scientific approach that uses nature as an inspiration to understand many aspects related to skin such as pigment, patterns and healthcare implications. Unexpected findings about skin science will be revealed.

“The Evolution and Meanings of Human Skin Color” Nina G. Jablonski, Pennsylvania State University Thursday, September 27, 6:30 p.m.

Variation in human skin color has fascinated and perplexed people for centuries. Biological anthropologist Nina G. Jablonski will explain how scientists now know that skin pigmentation has been a highly changeable trait in the 200,000-year history of modern humans—a trait used to define human races.

Jablonski will delve into the science of skin color—both biologically and socially. She will explain how the evolution of human skin color is one of the best examples of natural selection acting on the human body, and is a good example of an evolutionary compromise. Nina G. Jablonski is a leader in the worldwide fight against racism. Book signing following lecture.

This lecture is co-sponsored by The Leakey Foundation.

“Skin We are In” Saturday, September 29, 9 a.m.

URBAN HARVEST GARDENING CLASSES www.hmns.org/aedclasses Led by Angela Chandler

“Basic Organic Vegetable Gardening” Saturday, September 8, 9:30 a.m.

“Basic Fruit Tree Care” Saturday, October 6, 9:30 a.m.

PETROLEUM INDUSTRY OVERVIEW CLASS Need a jump-start or refresh of the energy industry? Classroom training is complimented by the state-of-theart exhibits in the Museum’s Wiess Energy Hall. This class is recommended for non-technical professionals who need familiarization with lingo and processes. Each session is $45 Members, $55 nonmembers. Receive a 25% discount if purchasing both sessions by October 2.

“Petroleum Exploration and Production” Tuesday, October 2, 3 - 5:30 p.m.

Led by Don Clutterbuck, petroleum geologist “Petroleum Refining & Marketing” Wednesday, October 3, 3 - 5:30 p.m.

Led by Nadeem Salameh, petroleum engineer

Looking to mix things up? Join the Museum’s Young Professionals group, HMNS Catalysts, and cause a reaction!

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS EVENT HMNS Catalysts: Burke Baker Planetarium Thursday, November 8, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Enjoy a night of stargazing in the recently upgraded Burke Baker Planetarium! HMNS Catalysts and their guests will fly through the Universe and experience the vastness of space.

2018 Steering Committee Tim Allen • Brynn Bossart • Autumn Breese • Celeste Byrom • Anna Caudle • Ben Clemenceau • Cary Corral • Anna Domning • Christine Dubbert • Allison Flick • Sam Li • Hunter Lockhart • Brooke McCallum • Will McCallum • Maggie McDaniel • Cassie Reid McGarvey • Vanessa Neutzler • Christa Clarke Owolabi • Jacob Owolabi • Sahil Patel • Julia Russell • Katherine Sermas • Patrick Sermas • Chase E. Simpson • Kate McLarney Speck • Charley Tauer • Eugene Terry • Kelley Trier • Emalie Vann Ghonima

H M N S H M N S C ATA LY S T S • TA K E T W O

Committed to the idea that science is an action that causes a reaction, HMNS Catalysts are Museum members in their 20s and 30s and enjoy basic Museum member benefits, plus invitations to HMNS Catalysts social events. Visit www.hmns. org/catalysts for more information.

Complimentary drinks, light bites, crafts and more.

Strictly for adults ages 21 and up. FREE for HMNS Catalysts Members. General public $25. Discounted tickets for HMNS members and Catalysts’ guests are available are available (713) 639-4629.

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Star Trek (2009) E Friday, October 12, 7:15 p.m.

See these classics in the best theatre for the best price in town. Visit www.hmns.org/taketwo for the complete 2018 Take Two lineup.

Moana (2017) W Friday, September 14, 7:15 p.m.

The Princess Bride (1987) W Friday, September 28, 7:15 p.m.

Ghostbusters (1984) W Friday, October 26, 7:15 p.m.

Come for the Movie, Stay for the Facts Avatar 3D E Wednesday, September 19, 6:15 p.m.

This 3D screening of Avatar will include a presentation

by Director of the Cockrell Butterfly Center, Erin Mills.

www.hmns.org/catalysts • www.hmns.org/taketwo

SPECIAL MEMBER PRICING

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER

www.hmns.org/calendar

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GIANT FILM FESTIVAL “It’s a Wild, Wild World” September 1 - 30 (page 16)

TAKE TWO Moana Friday, September 14, 7:15 p.m. (page 29)

STEM/NOVA DAY Cubs, Webelos and Boy Scouts Saturday, September 22, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (page 24)

PALEO HALL TOUR “The Reign of Mammals” Wednesday, September 5, 6 p.m. (page 13)

SENSORY FRIENDLY EVENT HMNS Hermann Park Saturday, September 15, 8 - 10 a.m. (page 31)

MEMBERS ONLY EVENT 2nd Saturday Saturday, September 8, 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. (page 2)

HMNS AT SUGAR LAND EVENT Fossil Wash Day Saturday, September 15, 9 a.m. - noon (page 23)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Facing the Past – Cases in Forensic Sculpture” Tuesday, September 25, 6:30 p.m. (page 9)

URBAN HARVEST GARDENING CLASS “Basic Organic Vegetable Gardening” Saturday, September 8, 9:30 a.m. (page 28) MEMBERS ONLY EVENT, SUGAR LAND 2nd Saturdays at Sugar Land Saturday, September 8, 10 - 11 a.m. (page 23) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Jack the Ripper: Patterns and Confusion” Tuesday, September 11, 6:30 p.m. (page 9) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes (page 9) Death by Natural Causes (page 11) Wednesday, September 12, 6 p.m.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Patterns, Pigment and Prejudice” Thursday, September 13, 6:30 p.m. (page 28) MEMBERS ONLY EVENT Members Appreciation Night Friday, September 14, 6 - 9 p.m. (page 2)

GEORGE OBSERVATORY EVENT Astronomy Day 2018 Saturday, September 15, 3 - 10 p.m. (page 20) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Cockrell Butterfly Center Tuesday, September 18, 6 p.m. (page 21) TRAVEL NIGHT “Maya Paradise – Belize, April 2019” Tuesday, September 18, 6 p.m. (page 7) HMNS AFTER DARK Wednesday, September 19, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. (page 30) TAKE TWO Avatar 3D Wednesday, September 19, 7 p.m. (page 16) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “DNA and Our Ancestors: The Story of Us” Thursday, September 20, 6:30 p.m. (page 28)

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Paleo Hall: “The Age of Man” (page 13) The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes (page 9) Wednesday, September 26, 6 p.m.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Evolution and Meanings of Human Skin Color” Thursday, September 27, 6:30 p.m. (page 28) TAKE TWO The Princess Bride Friday, September 28, 7:15 p.m. (page 29) EXXONMOBIL EDUCATOR MAKER LAB “Educator Maker Lab Beyond Basic Butterflies” Saturday, September 29, 8 a.m. (page 27) FAMILY TALK “The Skin We are In” Saturday, September 29, 9 a.m. (page 28) HANDS-ON ADULT CLASS “Insect Mounting” Saturday, September 29, 9:30 a.m. (page 12) EXHIBITION LAST DAY The International Exhibition of Sherlock Holmes Sunday, September 30 (page 8)

For tickets to all events, visit www

OCTOBER MEMBERS ONLY EVENT 2nd Saturday Saturday, October 13, 8 a.m. - noon (page 2)

MEMBERS ONLY EVENT HMNS’ Senior Social Wednesday, October 24, 9 a.m. - noon (page 2)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Beauty and Morphology of Insects” Wednesday, October 3, 6:30 p.m. (page 12)

MEMBERS ONLY EVENT, SUGAR LAND 2nd Saturday at Sugar Land Saturday, October 13, 10 - 11 a.m. (page 23)

HMNS AT SUGAR LAND EVENT T3 Haunted House Friday, October 26 & Saturday, October 27, 7 - 10 p.m. (page 23)

EDUCATOR LATE NIGHT “Forensics across the Curriculum” Friday, October 5, 5 p.m. (page 26) FALL PLANT SALE Saturday, October 6, 9 a.m. - noon (page 21) URBAN HARVEST GARDENING CLASS “Basic Fruit Tree Care” Saturday, October 6, 9:30 a.m. (page 28)

TAKE TWO Star Trek Friday, October 12, 7:15 p.m. (page 29)

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

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Animal Movement and the Robots of the Future” Tuesday, October 16, 6:30 p.m. (page 28) FAMILY FESTIVAL International Archaeology Day Saturday, October 20, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

OKTOBERPEST Saturday, October 20, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (page 21) CULTURAL FEAST “Chemistry of the Cocktail 3 A Culinary Apothecary” Tuesday, October 23, 7 p.m. (page 11)

Sensory Friendly event Saturday, September 15 8 - 10 a.m.

Join us for our Sensory Friendly Event on special Saturday mornings.

Enjoy modified lighting and sounds

TAKE TWO Ghostbusters Friday, October 26, 7:15 p.m. (page 29) HMNS AT SUGAR LAND EVENT Tricks, Treats & T-Rex! Magical Maze Festival Saturday, October 27, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. (page 23) SPIRITS AND SKELETONS Saturday, October 27, 8 p.m. – midnight (page 6) FILM SCREENING Volcanos: The Fires of Creation Tuesday, October 30, 6:30 p.m. (page 17)

exhibitions, Wortham Giant Screen Theatre and Burke Baker Planetarium!

Coming soon to HMNS at Sugar Land Access HMNS App Download our accessibility app Access HMNS to prepare for your visit and use it while you’re at HMNS to create a personalized Museum experience for you and your family.

Access HMNS is available for both Apple and Android devices.

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www.hmns.org/calendar

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “New Technology in Fossil Prep” Tuesday, October 9, 6:30 p.m. (page 13)

FAMILY FESTIVAL Earth Science Day Saturday, October 13, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Volcanoes, Life and Energy” Tuesday, October 2, 6:30 p.m. (page 17)

POSTMASTER: Dated material enclosed.

Please deliver IMMEDIATELY!

www.hmns.org/magazine

H M N S N E W S • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 • VOLUME 23, NUMBER 5

5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030

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.

THROUGH JANUARY 6, 2019 PAGE 10

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30 PAGE 8

PLEASE TOUCH THE EXHIBITS!

PREMIERES OCTOBER GIANT SCREEN THEATRE IN 15, THEWORTHAM HMNS STORE PAGE 17 PAGE 26