New Exhibit! Top Secret: License to Spy pg. 8 Ignite a Passion for STEM at Spark! pg. 4
Christina Schreiber, Jeff Stanford Contributing Writers Sydney Baker, Nicholas Chapman, Alexander Davis, Esha Gill, Jill Goddard, Lisa Hardt, Christian Lebron, JoAnn Newman, Gina Owen, Chelsea Piner, Christina Schreiber, Dr. MJ Soileau, Jeff Stanford, Helen Tillem, Angella Van Gelder
Graphic Designer Mona De Torres, Kristie Hoover
Photographers Sydney Baker, Roberto Gonzalez On the Cover: Our
Image credit: NASA
NEW EXHIBIT CONSTRUCTION FUELS EXCITEMENT, CREATES IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
Since 2014, we have been actively fundraising through the Unlock Science Campaign and its impact can be seen throughout Orlando Science Center. It has fueled exciting improvements like KidsTown, The Hive: A Makerspace Presented by The Isaacs Family, the STEM Discovery Center Presented by AdventHealth for Children and most recently, Life Presented by Dr. Sarah Layton. . The world is changing rapidly, and Orlando Science Center needs to keep up with those changes to stay compelling for our community. Through the Unlock Science Campaign, more than $30 million has been raised for new experiences at Orlando Science Center with two more projects on the horizon.
In 2025, we will begin a complete reimagining of the Dr. Phillips CineDome, including a full dome 8K digital laser projection system, new screen, and seating. This $7 million project will be kicked off thanks to a transformational gift of $1 million from Dr. Phillips Charities. The all-new Dr. Phillips CineDome will debut in 2026, bringing planetarium shows back to Orlando Science Center as well as offering giant screen films, laser light shows, multimedia experiences and more.
These platforms are powerful tools for education that can captivate imaginations through dynamic visuals that illustrate complex scientific concepts. Following the CineDome project, we will break ground on an exciting expansion in 2027. Thanks to $13.9 million in funding from Orange County’s Tourist Development Tax, we will create 6,500 square feet of new exhibition and event space on the FINFROCK Terrace.
This new exhibit area will become a permanent space science exhibit hall dedicated to hands-on experiences promoting space exploration. These exhibits will be movable, enabling us to also use the space as a premier event rental venue for weddings, corporate functions and other celebrations. This flexibility will generate additional revenue to provide operational support for the organization. As visitor numbers grow, the demand for more exhibits and programming increases. Renovations such as these create exciting new experiences that help us inspire science learning for all.
Through Unlock Science, Orlando Science Center is investing to better serve our community. We are generating long-term benefits by improving learning outcomes through exciting exhibit renovations and revitalized program content. We are also expanding our reach to increase access. As the world becomes more technologically complex, expectations increase for more interactive and immersive experiences. The success of Unlock Science enables us to create new opportunities to stay engaging, relevant and form a much deeper connection with our community.
PRESIDENT/CEO
Using Science to Spot the Truth in a World of Misinformation
In an age of constant headlines and viral posts, misinformation is everywhere. To combat this, Orlando Science Center created the Mythbusting Misinformation initiative in 2022 as part of our Science Matters campaign. Mythbusting Misinformation is all about equipping the public with tools to navigate a sea of misinformation using the scientific method.
The Role of Science in a Changing World
Science is not about absolute truths. It evolves as new data comes to light, challenging previous understandings. The scientific method—observe, hypothesize, test, analyze, and conclude—is a powerful tool for evaluating the endless stream of information we encounter daily. Whether you’re questioning a shocking news story or a too-good-to-be-true social media claim, applying this process can guide you to the facts.
Take a dubious claim online, for example: “Drinking coffee cures all diseases!” Using the scientific method, you would first look to see who created this post and research the topic for other information. You would use trusted resources to either verify or identify incorrect information. This approach not only debunks myths but also sharpens your ability to think critically about everything you read or hear.
Spotting Reliable Sources
Learning how to evaluate sources is just as important as understanding the information itself. OSC encourages asking key questions:
• Who created this content? Trustworthy sources often have credentials or expertise in the field.
• What evidence supports their claim? Reliable articles provide data or references to reputable studies.
• Is there bias? Look for whether the source has a motive, like selling a product or promoting an agenda.
These skills are crucial for navigating online spaces where misinformation often disguises itself as credible news.
A Brighter Future for Science Literacy
We’re excited to share that we’ll be continuing and
expanding upon this critical work over the next 18 months thanks to a generous grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which will allow us to create new content both in the building and online.
The new funding will enhance existing exhibits and create digital resources to reach broader audiences. Interactive workshops, online content, and engaging activities will teach critical thinking skills to people of all ages. By fostering these skills, OSC aims to build a community better equipped to question and understand the world around them.
Empowering Critical Thinkers
The Orlando Science Center is not just a place to learn about dinosaurs and planets; it’s a hub for tackling some of today’s biggest challenges. By teaching people how to think like scientists, OSC empowers individuals to navigate a complex world with confidence and clarity.
Learn more about this exciting program by visiting OSC or exploring our growing online resources at Mythbusting Misinformation. The truth is out there—and with the right tools, you can find it.
IGNITE PASSION
G et ready to ignite your passion for science at the 2025 Spark STEM Fest! Presented by the UCF Office of Research, this event was created and coordinated by OSC to inspire all ages through interactive experiences with researchers, engineers and STEM professionals. Packed with immersive hands-on exhibits and high-energy live science shows, this event will spark wonder in everyone!
What’s New This Year?
Spark STEM Fest is a part of a celebration of technology and innovation that has been thriving for more than two decades. By fostering meaningful connections between the public and professionals, Spark helps build excitement for
future possibilities. The event showcases engaging displays from diverse organizations and individuals, highlighting career pathways in industry and academia, and reflecting the rich diversity of our community.
We have some extra-special guest presentations for our visitors this year! The UCF Office of Research has handpicked a variety of professors and scientists to help educate visitors of all ages. And this year, we’re particularly excited to have Team Witch Doctor of BattleBots fame join us for the weekend! Team Witch Doctor is a two-time world championship finalist in the combat robotics community. They specialize in promoting STEM to enable young builders outside of the BattleBox. Plus, we can’t forget daily shows by Jason Latimer, world champion magician, Curator of Impossible Science at the iconic Fleet Science Center, and co-host of the Science Channel series SciJinks.
Explore the future of space travel with our friends from NASA and the Florida Space Institute. If you have any burning questions about why we’re headed back to the moon, now is the time to ask them! Then head up to Our Planet, Our Solar System to explore the surface of the moon yourself with our brand-new Space Explorer technology. Space Explorer is a permanent exhibit created by Phenix Design Group who showcased their 3D mapping technology at Spark 2024. More interested in what’s happening here on our
planet? Spend some time with our friends from Minorities in Shark Sciences, SCUBAnauts International, or the UCF Marine Turtle Research Group and learn all about ocean conservation. Or take to the skies as you run your very own raptor trauma clinic with the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey! And of course, our all-new nature and conservation exhibit, Life, will be open to visitors of all ages. From invasive species and Florida locals to tropical birds and fish, the animals in our care - and their keepers - are ready to inspire the future biologists, zoologists, and aquarists of the world.
Spark STEM Fest is your chance to take a deep dive into the STEM topics that pique your curiosity, but we also hope you’ll discover a love of something new. Whether you’re interested in biology and chemistry, physics and engineering, gaming and technology, or some combination of each, you’re sure to find something that sparks your imagination. We hope to see you there!
Inspiring the Next Generation
Friday, February 14 will be reserved for special Spark STEM Fest Field Trip experiences for local school districts. Here,
students can interact with STEM professionals in Spark Labs and explore our dynamic exhibits. We offer space for groups and individuals that would like to teach or share their knowledge, passion, and expertise with K-12 students with an exhibit space in a classroom environment. While we will still be open to the general public on February 14, the best time for you to experience all that Spark STEM Fest has to offer will be between February 15 and 17.
SCIENCE NIGHT LIVE FEATURING SPARK STEM FEST
Looking for a more grown-up way to interact with exhibitors, community partners, or thought-provoking guest speakers? Join us for Science Night Live on Saturday, February 15 and experience the Science Center after hours – and without the kids! There’s no age-limit on curiosity, and whether you join us for a get-together of old friends or a fun date night out, Science Night Live is your chance to enjoy Spark STEM Fest with a casual, engaging atmosphere that is available for adults only. Get more details and tickets at osc.org/snl.
Jason Latimer: Making Science Magical
Jason Latimer is a world champion magician, Curator of Impossible Science at the iconic Fleet Science Center, and co-host of the Science Channel series SciJinks. Latimer unites magic and science to inspire curiosity and demonstrate how the right question changes everything.
From bending light to shaping water, his illusions are featured globally on Television Specials, Series, Live Shows, STEM labs, and science festivals. Latimer's work has sparked millions of minds to embrace their ability to wonder.
You have a very eclectic career. How did you get started? When I was about nine years old I saw a magic show and it blew my mind. I became instantly fascinated by the concept of the unknown. So I began reading as many magic books that I could get my hands on trying to understand "what is possible?" and as I grew up I found myself studying science books wondering that exact same question. So for me, being a curator of a science center or world champion of magic is pretty much the same... I get to have fun pursuing "what is ultimately possible?"
How does your background as a curator at a science museum influence your performances? "Magic" is everything we don’t understand. Regardless of how impossible the effect I do may look... I don’t have any superpowers, I’m just an individual who asked a lot of questions. It's really important for kids to realize they can do the seemingly impossible too, the secret is to be curious. When I perform my effects like shaping water or bending light, or even passing solid objects through other solid objects, if you
don’t understand how these are done… Well, then these are going to look like magic.
Also, as a curator of a science center, I do have a few more tools at my disposal to make for an awe inspiring STEAM experience. The exciting part is that each illusion of my show represents a different field of study, (i.e. Math, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Psychology, etc) and so with my show if you tell me your favorite illusion, I am happy to tell you the field of science you need to study to figure it out.
How do you leverage your skills as an artist, a magician and a science educator in your shows?
In the show of Impossible Science LIVE, I use my illusions to help illustrate how the right question changes everything. Being an artist has allowed me to offer a more inspiring and theatrical way to approach education.
What excites you the most about what you do?
I love inspiring wonder. I truly believe wonder changes the world. New cures, innovative technologies, revolutionary advancements, they all come from questions that have never been asked before.
What excites me the most about Impossible Science is the impact and long lasting reach it has been receiving in the education system. My live show is just one of the many ways my company blends science and magic to inspire wonder in education. The Impossible Science programs span 6 science centers across California, Oregon, and Arizona, 27 Impossible Science Summer Camps, 4 touring Impossible Science Festivals reaching rural communities, Lessons Plans and Digital Series with over 100+ million views across social media.
What gets the biggest reaction from audiences?
That’s the best part, audiences each have their favorite moments. Some kids will see the laser illusions and come out of the show wanting to be a Physicist, others will see the water shaping and want to study Chemistry… or engineering or mathematics, etc. I’d say across the board there is a big reaction for all the illusions.
When was the first time that science really inspired you?
Well it's hard to pinpoint the very first time, but one of the most meaningful moments is when I used science to build the one effect the magic community said could never be done. I set out to renovate the oldest trick in the book, "Follow the ball under a cup," but with clear glass cups. It turns out that effect is possible, and ended up being the routine I used to win the title Grand Prix World Champion of Magic. And yes... that effect will be in THIS show. Can’t wait for you to see it!
Meet Jenny Kampmeier, NASA Engineer
In October, Orlando Science Center was happy to host the touring exhibition for the Europa Clipper Mission. During NASA’s visit, engineer Jenny Kampmeier gave a presentation on the importance of the mission and what they hoped to accomplish. We were happy to get to know Jenny, an Orlando native, and learn more about her path to NASA.
Were you interested in space exploration as a child?
Engineering at the University
where
also landed an internship at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in southern California. The rest is history: I came to JPL after graduation and started working on Europa Clipper soon after.
What subjects in school really prepared you for your career?
Yes and no! I remember a particularly captivating Eyewitness book about Space Exploration that I would read over and over, but I had a lot of varied interests as a child, everything from video games to Greek mythology, drawing and music to marine biology. It wasn’t until my mid-twenties that I started to become obsessed with space exploration, astronomy, and astrophysics.
What inspired you to take this path?
I have a bit of a non-traditional path to NASA — after high school in Orlando, I attended the University of Florida for Music Performance (though I did spend one semester as an undeclared engineering major before switching to music). After graduating with my bachelor’s degree, I moved to New York City and spent several years pursuing a career as a freelance musician and orchestra librarian. It was during this time that I started learning more about our universe as a hobby, watching NOVA documentaries on PBS about astronomy and reading books on string theory and space exploration. And then, I was serendipitously in Florida visiting family during the launch window for the final Space Shuttle mission, and so I went to Port Canaveral to watch the launch. Seeing the Shuttle blast off from the Earth (with real, actual people inside!) flipped a very big switch in my brain, and later that day I started researching how I could go back to school to pursue a career in space. To make a long story short, I went back to school for
Truly, everything I studied has given me the preparation I needed for my career at NASA. Math and physics provided a strong technical foundation, English and Literature taught me how to use words to communicate ideas, Music and Art helped me be creative and disciplined, and History taught me to learn lessons from those who came before me. Working on the biggest problems requires more than just technical skill, and a variety of coursework can help get you there.
What's the most exciting aspect of your job?
I love that I get to ask the big questions and get to work towards the answers every day. A question like “Are we alone in the universe?” is the kind of thing that drove us to want to explore Europa, and it is thrilling to be part of trying to answer that question.
Why is the Europa Clipper mission important?
Europa Clipper is exploring a moon of Jupiter called Europa, which has a global ocean of salty water underneath an icy crust. Scientists believe that Europa could have all the ingredients for life — water, chemistry, and energy — and that those ingredients have been “simmering away” since Europa’s formation about 4 billion years ago. This means that there is a place in our own solar system that could be habitable, and Europa Clipper is going to find out!
Aerospace
of Colorado Boulder,
I
Rappel Into the Secret World of Spies!
The name is Science Center...Orlando Science Center. We were sent here on a mission to share classified information about our upcoming traveling exhibit, Top Secret: License to Spy! Trade in your lab coats for some spy gear as we explore the science behind espionage. Crack the code. Uncover the truth. Solve the case. All without getting caught!
The Quantum Computer has gone missing, and we’re relying on you to solve the case, Secret Agent! Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to uncover clues using the scientific method and bring the culprit to justice... before it’s too late.
Here’s the mission: six people were last seen with the Quantum Computer. This computer holds the codes to some of the most top-secret experiments known to humankind. If they fall into the wrong hands, they could be used for evil, and we can’t let that happen. This is where you come in, Secret Agent.
You will find all the spy gear you’ll need at Q’s Workshop. Brush up on your espionage skills by getting hands-on with
updated technology, such as hidden cameras and radio bugs, to reveal unseen items and secret conversations. Use surveillance, monitoring, research, and interpretation procedures as you collect significant information to nail down a suspect.
Gather intelligence throughout the exhibit by breaking codes, uncovering clues, utilizing state-of-the-art spy equipment, and creating an incognito disguise. Unveil the science behind spy tactics and technology by using the scientific method to eliminate people of interest.
You will get the chance to learn about spy technology and how science is used to collect evidence in the real world from past missions. In this training, you will also obtain inside knowledge of the evolving ways spies can use code and ciphers to pass along information through various mediums. From tapping into phone lines and breaking into safes to laser listening and night vision cameras, get handson as you gather data in this mission.
Only when you successfully pass the Laser Maze will you be able to harness all the skills of a top-tier spy. After reviewing your evidence, we will meet in the Debriefing Room to go over the data you’ve collected. After interpreting all necessary information, we can make a reasonable conclusion based on the scientific method to catch our suspect, get the Quantum Computer back, and save the day!
The Science Center is counting on you, Secret Agent! Will you accept this mission?
Top Secret: License to Spy was created and designed by Scitech and produced by Imagine Exhibitions.
Film
Storytime Cinema Movi es That Inspire
Step into a world of adventure with Storytime Cinema, a new children’s film series produced by Global Peace 360° at the Orlando Science Center!
Every second Saturday at 10:15 a.m., families can enjoy classic films from Inside Out, Labyrinth, and C harlotte’s Web to Bambi, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, and The AbsentMinded Professor, each brought to life on the big screen.
These beloved stories, inspired by STEAM and award-winning
children’s books, teach valuable lessons in science, empathy, creativity, and friendship. With each film, young minds are inspired to explore, discover, and imagine.
Join us for a cinematic journey that sparks curiosity and celebrates the power of learning and storytelling! This program is made possible in part by Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Larimer & Co. Branding Studios in partnership with Orlando Science Center.
See what is now playing, check show times, watch trailers, and more at osc.org/theaters.
DR. PHILLIPS CINEDOME
JANUARY
Apollo 11: First Steps Edition
The Ultimate Wave Tahiti
The Living Sea
Forces of Nature
Mysterious of Unseen World
FEBRUARY
Wild Africa
Great Bear Rainforest
Everest
Robots
Journey to Space
MARCH
Into America's Wild Cuba
The Last Reef
Superpower Dogs
Tornado Alley
APRIL
Amazing Caves
Amazon Adventure
Air Racers
Great Barrier Reef
Galapagos
To the Arctic
DIGITAL ADVENTURE THEATER
Desert Elephants 3D
Meerkats 3D
STORYTIME CINEMA
Inside Out
Labyrinth
The Iron Giant
Bambi
JANUARY FEBRUARY
COMMU NITY CARE MONTH
Start the New Year with joy and good health! We’re collaborating with community partners to discover ways to enhance our well-being and make a positive impact on our environment. 1-31
SPARK MONTH
From explosive live shows and wild animal encounters, to ooey gooey science experiments, we're pulling out the most popular, fan-favorite programming, culminating in our BIGGEST event of the year - Spark STEM Fest!
Storytime Cinema Labyrinth (1986) 10:15 am - Created by Jim Henson
by Orlando Health
Day The Science of Guinness World Records Presented by Nemours Children’s Health
Storytime Cinema Inside Out (2015) 10:15 am - Based on the book “Adventures in Parenting” by various authors
11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Top Secret: License to Spy
Solar Saturday Observatory Open 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Kids Night at the Museum* Valentine's Day Themed (Ages 5 – 12) 6:00 – 10:00 pm
– MONDAY Spark STEM Fest Presented by UCF Office of Research
Night Live
Spark STEM Fest! (Ages 21+) 8:00 – 11:30 pm
APRIL MARCH
SUPERHERO MONTH
With great power comes great responsibility. Develop your superpowers with us as we uncover everyday heroes right here in our community and learn how YOU can make a difference.
NATURE MONTH
Take a walk on the wild side! Join us as we learn about the world around us through animal meet and greets and unbe-leaf-able hands- on activities. EVERY
(1942)
Intro to r ocket Sc I ence!
Supplies
• Click here to download the rocket template and print.
• Straw
• Tape
• Scissors
Directions
• Optional: Customize your rocket! You can use stickers, markers, crayons, and more.
1. Download the template and then print it at home.
2. Decorate your rocket! Do this before cutting out the pieces!
3. Cut out a rectangle body from the template. Wrap the rectangle of paper around your straw and fasten it with tape. The paper should move up and down the straw, so don’t wrap it too tight!
4. Cut the fin pieces from the template and fasten them to the rocket with tape.
5. Fold along the dotted lines.
6. Push the rocket along the straw until the top is sticking off the straw by about a half inch. Pinch and twist this end into a tip and fasten with tape. Use tape to seal any gaps, and voilà! A handmade rocket!
Expand on this Activity
Think about the force that is causing the rocket to fly. Where does the force come from? How is that different than an actual rocket?
Orlando Science Center SCIENCE COMPETITIONS
Orlando Science Center is committed to supporting children and young adults in their scientific endeavors. To encourage students to foster their interest in STEM fields, we host science competitions for Grades K-12 each school year. As students grow older and gain experience, they can participate in increasingly challenging competitions with the potential to earn cash prizes and scholarships!
CURTIS RISING STARS CHALLENGE
The Curtis Rising Stars Science Challenge introduces young students to science competitions and helps them develop teamwork skills. The competition is open to students in equivalent Grades K-5 who register through their educational organization. Students are first prepared through pre-activities and prompts with their class at school. The experience culminates in the day-long competition at Orlando Science Center when students put their STEM skills into practice!
CURTIS KINETIC SCIENCE COMPETITION
Assemble a team of tinkerers and budding engineers to compete for cash prizes in the Curtis Kinetic Science Competition! The Curtis Kinetic Science Competition is open to students in equivalent middle school grades in teams of up to five. This competition challenges students to transform ordinary and found objects into a kinetic system inspired by Rube Goldberg’s famous machines.
LOCKHEED MARTIN SCIENCE CHALLENGE
The Lockheed Martin Science Challenge provides county science fair winners an opportunity to present their projects to a team of expert judges before advancing to the state science fair.
DR. NELSON YING SCIENCE COMPETITION
This competition proves that anyone can save the world! Local scientist, entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr. Nelson Ying has partnered with Orlando Science Center since 1999 to celebrate local students’ exemplary achievements. This competition is open to individual students in Grades 9–12. Projects can be classified into a wide range of STEM topics, but they always have one thing in common: the goal to help humanity through scientific research.
Homeschool Program for Grades K-8
Our monthly Homeschool Program exposes students to a variety of topics, offering them the opportunity to engage with their peers and encounter resources they may not have at home! For more details, including pricing and registration, visit osc.org/homeschool
EACH COURSE INCLUDES:
• Standards-based Discovery Lab
• Exhibit experiences led by an OSC Educator
• Giant-screen educational films
• Work samples for student’s homeschool portfolio
• Take-home extension lessons to further scientific exploration
UPCOMING THEMES:
February 3: Aerospace Engineering
March 3: Environmental Science
April 7: Renewable Energy
May 5: Chemistry
Drop your kids o for a guided evening of exhibits, STEM activities, Pizza Hut dinner, and more!
FEBRUARY 8
Explore science topics themed around Valentine's Day! Dissect a flower to learn all about the parts and functions of "love me, love me not" games.
APRIL 19
Give the planet a little love this Earth Day as we explore methods of cleaning up oil spills and learn the importance of keeping the ocean clean.
ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER STEM Camps!
SUMMER CAMPS
Keep learning all summer long at exciting STEM camps for Preschool through Grade 6 with topics like robotics, space, engineering, nature and many more. Plus, new this year, we're offering OSC offsite camps for Grades 3-5 in partnership with the 4Roots Farm Campus! Download the Summer Camps Guide at osc.org/summer-camps to get a sneak peek at our Camp themes that are so engaging, your camper won’t even realize they’re learning!
*Preschool is a DCF licensed center C09OR0729.
BREAK CAMPS
From fairytales to spy missions, Orlando Science Center’s School Break Camps offer campers hands-on experiences that bring stories to life and reveal the wonders of STEM Camps are offered for Preschool through Grade 5. Member pricing, as well as single and multi-day options, are available so you can save on science! Learn about upcoming themes and register at osc.org/break-camps.
Member Pre-Sale
January 1-31
Get your best discount on Camps all year and sign up before they go on sale to the general public!
*Membership must be active and valid from the date of purchase through the final date of the selected camp sections
Upcoming Dates
Spring Break Camps
March 17-21
Updates on the James Webb Space Telescope
A Guest Feature from Dr. M.J. Soileau, Scientist in Residence
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) became fully functional and available in January of 2022. Many spectacular photos were published in print, TV, and streaming media, creating great excitement. Then, the hard work started. Scientists had already competed for time using the Webb based on a rigorous review of the proposed scientific use of this wonderful tool. Let’s look at three examples of findings using the unique capabilities of this special instrument.
The Webb mirror diameter is about five times that of the Hubble Space Telescope, allowing a 25-times larger collection area. The larger mirror gives the Webb finer resolution and the ability to see much fainter objects. The Hubble looks at the sky in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum (0.38 to 0.780-micron wavelengths),
whereas the Webb detectors are designed to “see” in the infrared (IR) (0.6-to 28.5-microns.) The IR capability of the Webb allows scientists to image inside dust and gas clouds, analyze constituents of exoplanets' atmospheres, and see the earliest, most distant galaxies in our universe.
The spectrum of visible light reveals the quantum signature of electronic transitions of individual atoms, whereas the IR spectrum reveals the quantum signature of the vibration and rotation of molecules. The spectrum is the detailed distribution of colors or wavelengths of light (more generally electromagnetic radiation, or EM radiation). Spectroscopy, the analysis of the color distribution of light reflected or absorbed by matter, is one of the most important tools in modern science
A key area of exploration of the Webb is the birth of stars within our galaxy. Longer wavelengths of EM radiation are scattered much less than shorter wavelengths, allowing the Webb to “see” inside star nurseries in galactic clouds of dust and gasses. The telescope has imaged a protostar, L1527, 460 light years from Earth. You can see images of L1527 (Figure 1) and learn more about planet formation here
The second photo (Figure 2) shows the IR spectra of exoplanet WASP-96, a gas giant exoplanet that orbits a sunlike star 1,150 light years from Earth. The atmospheric composition is a strong clue as to whether an exoplanet has the possibility of life as we know it. An exoplanet’s spectra shows that the atmosphere of this far-away planet contains water. You can learn more about WASP-96 here
Figure 1. Protostar L1527, only about 100,000 years old and still embedded in the mocular cloud in which it was formed.
Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI; Processing: Joseph DePasquale (STScI), Alyssa Pagan (STScI), Anton M. Koekemoer (STScI)
Perhaps the most profound feature of the Webb is that its IR sensors allow one to study the formation of galaxies at the earliest moments of our expanding universe. In 1929, astronomer Erwin Hubble reported that the color of light from distant galaxies shifted toward the red and that the amount of the red shift is proportional to the distance of the galaxies from the Earth, which is known as Hubble’s Law. This is a magnification of the Doppler Shift wherein frequencies of waves shift to the red for receding objects and toward the blue for approaching objects.
Hubble’s Law led directly to the modern science theory of the expanding universe. The more redshifted the light the more distant the galaxies and the farther back in time we are looking. The most distant galaxies are red-shifted to wavelengths beyond the visible spectrum. Webb IR
sensors can image galaxies nearer to the beginning of our universe.
The most distant galaxy imaged by Webb is as it was about 300 million years after the Big Bang! It is brighter and bigger than previously thought
possible (Figure 3). This provides the challenge scientists love to see: something that shows that the previous model is inadequate. You can see this galaxy in the photo below and learn more about these oldest, most distant galaxies here
Figure 2. This is the transmission spectrum through the atmosphere of a hot gas giant exoplanet WASP-996 B. The peaks and valleys are the quantum signature of molecules in the planet’s atmosphere. Astronomers calculated the temperature of the atmosphere to be 725-degrees C based on these data. The redshifted spectrum of JADES-GS-z14-0 as measured by the JWST's NIRSpec instrument
Image credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, J. Olmsted (STScI). Science: S. Carniani (Scuola Normale Superiore), JADES Collaboration.
Figure 3. JADES-GS-Z14-0 the earliest and most distant galaxy yet observed. Image credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, B. Robertson (UC Santa Cruz), B. Johnson (CfA), S. Tacchella (Cambridge),
The fourth annual Science on Tap beer festival is happening on Saturday, January 25, 2025! Hop in for an afternoon of brews, food, and science while supporting a good cause.
Science on Tap features local breweries from around Central Florida who will be sampling some of their best brews in Loch Haven Park. Enjoy this familyfriendly event as you sip your way
January 25 • Outdoor Beer Festival
through interactive science demos, check out live music, challenge your kids or your friends to fun lawn games, and delight in a few tasty treats purchased from several popular food trucks.
Proceeds from Science on Tap support access to high-quality STEM learning at OSC. With your help, we can raise critical funds that enable Orlando Science Center to inspire
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
Step into STEM at OSC’s annual Science & Wine fundraiser, an evolution of our Science of Wine event. This exciting food and wine experience welcomes guests to enjoy an evening of live music, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, and wine tastings from diverse regions while experiencing all the Science Center has to offer. Guests will enjoy an evening
science learning for life through engaging experiences. Proceeds from Science on Tap support OSC programming that helps build important skills and illustrate the power of science to address real world challenges.
Follow us at @orlandosciencecenter for more information and grab your tickets at Science on Tap. Cheers to a Happy New Year!
of learning while engaging with professional chefs and sommeliers, attending wine seminars, networking, and participating in STEM activities throughout the evening. Uncork your inner scientist and delight in Central Florida’s culinary community!
You will also have access to shop our exciting silent auction. Previous
auction items include a WestJet roundtrip for two, four passes to Universal Orlando Resort, and a 3-day/2-night stay at the Celeste Hotel Orlando!
Enjoy this adults-only night out in support of public access to highquality STEM learning and visit Science & Wine for updates.
MARCH 15 & 16
Don a cape and fly into Superhero Weekend! Learn about everyday heroes working hard to make our community a better place, discover some of the science behind your favorite superhero characters, and power up with heroic crafts, stories, shows, and more!
APRIL 12 & 13
Unleash your wild side and discover the unbe-leaf-able natural wonders all around us during Great Outdoors Weekend! Become one with nature as you meet extraordinary wildlife, participate in paw-some activities, and experience the outdoors through wild challenges.
WE JUST SET A WORLD RECORD!
Psst! Did you hear? On Saturday, November 16, the Science Center earned a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for “Most people flying paper rockets simultaneously.” Yes, that’s rightOSC is o cially a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title holder!
With the guidance of an o cial GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS adjudicator, 262 people launched paper rockets from straw
launchers – at the same time. We had so much fun setting this record and getting to join the record books!
If you want to build your own straw rocket like the ones we used, check out our activity for Try This at Home on page 10! Cheers for this achievement and many more to come. We can’t wait to see what records scientists like you break next!
The Best of Both Worlds:
Honoring Yamilée Toussaint’s Contribution to STEM
For years, there has been an unspoken preconception concerning how different people who specialize in creative arts are compared to those who work in STEM. This idea has gone on for years encouraging individuals to embrace the status quo of their profession all while rejecting any interest that lies outside of their social norm. For this reason, Yamilée Toussaint took the initiative to bridge the gap between both worlds by creating a one-of-a-kind dance program known as STEM From Dance.
Growing up, some of Toussaint's fondest memories happened on stage where she danced her heart out. During that time, her curiosity and wonder for math and science grew, evolving into a pastime of leisure. In a personal statement to the IF/ THEN organization, Toussaint states
“When I wasn’t dancing, I would spend my free time doing math problems for fun.”
As time went on, she excelled in her academics, leading her to study Mechanical Engineering at MIT. But the thought of leaving dance behind always lingered in the back of her mind, describing it as something she just couldn’t let go of. This then led her to go down a rabbit hole of questions, asking herself “What if I don’t have to choose between dance and engineering? What if the joy and confidence you get from dance can break the intimidation barrier that many girls of color have about STEM? What if it’s dance that can unlock their potential?” And it was at that moment that the idea to create an environment that fostered creativity and STEM-like education was created; which then gave birth to STEM From Dance.
In 2012, STEM From Dance opened its first school residence in Brooklyn with a curriculum based in math and dance. Since then, it has received funding from Teach for America’s Social Innovation Award, allowing the organization to
hire employees and attract more resources for educating students. Its mission is simple, to empower girls of color to find their joy, power, and potential in STEM all while expressing themselves in the arts.
In 2017, the program's first student to major in STEM was accepted into the Environmental Science Department at Union College. Since then, the program has expanded outside of New York, in cities like Atlanta, Tampa, and Houston, going on to impact the lives of students in different states. In 2021, STEM From Dance went international, hosting its first program outside of the US in partnership with Vive Bailando in Columbia, South America.
Due to the growing success of the program, in 2024, Yamilée Toussaint was honored as a CNN Hero. According to an interview with Toussaint, “I saw at the time that girls just tend not to feel like math is a place they belong in. That's really why we exist and what we are working to change. Because our method attracts girls who otherwise wouldn’t raise their hand to code or build a robot, we know we can impact the field. A big part of getting there will be releasing our curriculum and training so that teachers across the country and the world can adopt our approach and implement it locally.”
Good Luck, Bridgit: The Entertainment to STEM Pipeline
Within the last few decades, women have been breaking barriers in professions that once were solely dominated by men. According to the National Science Board, women working in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) make up about 35% of the workforce, firmly maintaining their minority status in those fields. For Women’s History Month in March, we want to recognize how far women have come in STEM and their capability to challenge the status quo.
If you grew up in the early 2000s (or if your kids did!), you might have heard of Bridgit Mendler. The star of multiple popular family shows such as "Good Luck, Charlie" and lead singer on a successful studio album, Mendler got her start as an actor and singer on the Disney Channel. Once in the spotlight, she put on a lab coat.
Having grown up with parents in engineering, Mendler saw an opportunity to expand her contribution to the world. She initially put her undergraduate degree on hold for acting but returned to earn a B.S. in Anthropology. Later, while filming on location in Massachusetts, Mendler found herself visiting the MIT Media Lab on her days off, learning about new technologies and how they were affecting humanity.
Mendler stayed in Massachusetts after filming to receive a master's degree at MIT, and then began jointly pursuing a Ph.D. at MIT and a J.D. at Harvard Law School. She has since completed her J.D. but is still working towards her Ph.D.
Her work in STEM led Mendler to start her own company, Northwood Space, which recently claimed a breakthrough in space communication. The company was created to address ground infrastructure, an area of space travel that had been overlooked.
Space companies rely on connectivity to run their business from Earth. However, many key aspects of ground infrastructure haven’t advanced like the rest of the space industry; companies are still relying on tech from the 1960s. Bridgit’s company pinpointed the need to provide a data highway for information to travel between satellites quickly. In October 2024, they tested their
prototype antenna, Frankie, with a planet satellite. The prototype was a success, demonstrating their ability to transmit real-time data from space to Earth.
Mendler has brought much-needed updates to space communication technology that will impact future missions to space. Northwood Space’s satellite is able to anticipate problems before they appear and notify the operator quickly, enabling faster problem solving. The company’s solution for failed satellite connection on the ground has opened a door for data to be shared during emergencies or challenging conditions with fewer delays.
Northwood Space believes that the future is meant to be shared. The advancement of technology has led to major human progress. From telegraphs to telephones to the internet, each development has played a role in advancing communication. With the recent interest in continuing space travel, communicating what is out there should not hinder our exploration.
Bridgit Mendler is one of many women in STEM making their mark, proving that diversifying the industry can lead to new ideas that propel us into the future. The Northwood Space team hopes the next generation will contribute to the story by connecting the Earth through space and into the new frontier.
ASK A SCIENTIST
Our inaugural Scientist in Residence, Dr. M.J. Soileau has a passion for learning and educating the community through STEM. You’ve asked him some of your burning questions and he has answered!
How and why are stars and constellations classified?
Star classifications help guide our understanding of the physics governing our Sun. More generally, they inform our understanding of how stars form, live, and die. This understanding is critical to further developing our understanding of our universe.
The primary way stars are classified is by their surface temperature and luminosity, which is defined as their total radiative power or intrinsic brightness. Temperature is the easiest thing to measure because it’s indicated by the peak color or wavelength of stellar emission. One can get a good idea of a star’s temperature with your unaided eye!
What is the science behind volcanoes?
Volcanoes occur when hot molten rock and metals (called magma when under the Earth’s surface) erupt through holes or cracks in the Earth’s surface, resulting in the flow of lava (molten rock and metals above the Earth’s surface).
A process called convection heats the mantle and results in a mixture of liquid and solid metals and rock. The hot, high-pressure magma rises toward the surface. In the last step of this process, the magma rises and erupts at the surface through cracks and fissures in the crust. We call these eruptions volcanoes. Lava is the flowing liquid rock and metals of the eruption.
Why do dogs wag their tail when they are excited?
Dogs use their tails to communicate. For example, when your dog sees you, they wag their tail to communicate to you that they are excited to see you. It's a way of showing their affection for you.
On the other hand, when a dog does something wrong and you scold them for it, the dog might stick its tail between its hind legs and slowly wag it. This communicates to you that your dog is feeling sorry or ashamed.
However, just as our voices can communicate anger or fear in addition to excitement and affection, sometimes a
dog wagging its tale is communicating that they are angry or afraid. You can probably tell the difference with your dog, but it's more difficult to tell with a dog you don't know. Never approach or touch an unknown dog unless their owner is present and gives you permission!
How do you go to the bathroom in space?
The short answer is very carefully! This is an important and complicated problem. For #2, they sit on a toilet seat like the ones we use on Earth. Then they use a device similar to a vacuum cleaner to suck up the waste, vacuum dry it, and send it down with other waste. For #1, they pee into a tube connected to the vacuum-likedevice that vents the liquid into space.
It is critical to get this process right, so astronauts have to train themselves to use these systems before they go into space!
Florida Prepaid has been the #1 college savings partner for Florida families for more than 35 years, and in that time the mission has remained as focused as the most powerful telescope: to make it possible for every family to save for college affordably.
Florida 529 Prepaid Plans are risk-free and allow families to lock in the cost of college tuition one year at a time, with fixed monthly payments to fit many different budget and savings goals.
The 1-Year Plan is especially budget-friendly. Prices start at less than $34/month, and family members or loved ones can purchase multiple 1-Year Plans for the same child to
cover postsecondary tuition. The 1-Year Plan covers 30 credit hours at the university tuition rate.
Financial experts agree that tax-free 529 Plans are the smartest way to save for college, thanks to their flexibility and financial benefits:
• Can be used in-state, or nationwide at public, private, trade and technical schools
• Complements scholarships and financial aid
• Transferable to another student, or can be canceled anytime Visit myfloridaprepaid.com to
your plan today.
The programs you know and love at the Science Center would not be possible without the generous and ongoing support we receive from United Arts of Central Florida. United Arts serves as the one-stop shop for support and funding of the arts community. They have invested over $203.7 million in the Central Florida community since their inception in 1989, and award over 125 grants annually to local artists and arts, science, and history cultural providers, including the Science Center! Thank you, United Arts of Central Florida, for your dedication to helping us be the spark that ignites innovation in our community!
Orlando Science Center teamed up with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra (OPO) to present a brand-new live show, Science of Sound: Vibrations in Harmony. Featuring six professional musicians, this interactive performance demonstrated the connections between STEM and music. Science Center visitors also had the opportunity to visit the Instrument Petting Zoo, a variety instruments that OPO introduced to guests, allowing them to hold and even play the instruments to understand how they work and what kinds of sound they can make. This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. To find out more about how National Endowment for the Arts grants impact individuals and communities, visit www.arts.gov.
We were honored to be selected for a Museums for America grant award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to support our Science Matters: Mythbusting Misinformation public information and science literacy campaign. IMLS is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. They advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow IMLS on Facebook and Twitter.
Orlando Science Center programming is funded in part by Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program. We are so grateful to Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs for their continued support of our mission to inspire science learning for life! Funding awarded through their cultural tourism grant enables the Science Center to bring exciting, world-class experiences to Central Florida, including events like Spark STEM Fest and Science Night Live, and rotating traveling exhibits. Thank you, Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs, for all you do to make Orange County a vibrant community to live in and an incredible destination to visit.
INVEST IN THE FUTURE
Orlando Science Center’s Corporate Partnership Program is a customizable sponsorship program designed with your company’s community engagement priorities in mind. This unique opportunity allows your company to support many areas of our mission, including workforce development and STEM education, while receiving year-round recognition through our exhibits, programs, publications, and special events.
INVEST IN THE FUTURE
YOUR EMPLOYEES BENEFIT
• Tickets to the Science Center and special events
• Engagement opportunities
• Invitations to exclusive receptions and VIP events
YOUR COMPANY BENEFITS
• Reach an annual audience of 600,000+
• Logo recognition and advertisements
• Support of workforce development through STEM education
• Plus much more
YOUR COMMUNITY BENEFITS
• Educational programs that bring STEM education to thousands across Central Florida
• Development of new high-quality exhibits and experiences
• Access for learners who experience OSC for free or reduced price
• Increased youth participation from cradle to career
INSPIRING INNOVATION : DR. JASON EICHENHOLZ’S JOURNEY AND SUPPORT OF ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER
Orlando Science Center proudly celebrates Dr. Jason Eichenholz, Innovator Member, inventor, and steadfast supporter of science education. Widely known as the co-founder of Luminar Technologies, Jason has recently stepped away from his role to focus on creating a legacy of impact through new endeavors, including founding Jonathan’s Landing. This innovative nonprofit is dedicated to providing housing and employment solutions that offer dignity, meaning, and purpose for adults with autism.
Jason’s story is a remarkable example of how early sparks of curiosity, nurtured through hands-on learning
and community support, can lead to extraordinary achievements. His journey from a small-town dreamer fascinated by lasers to a worldrenowned inventor and entrepreneur embodies the transformative power of STEM education.
Jason’s journey began with pivotal childhood visits to places like the Boston Museum of Science. These early experiences laid the foundation for him as a leader in the photonics and lidar industries, where he earned a PhD, secured over 80 patents, and even took his company public on NASDAQ. Yet, for all of his extraordinary achievements, Jason’s heart remains with the community that fostered his love of science.
This connection to his roots fuels Jason’s commitment to giving back. At last year’s Inspire Science Breakfast, Jason shared how pivotal institutions like OSC are in sparking curiosity and fostering innovation. His personal story illustrates the profound impact of providing youth with access to resources and
opportunities—whether through exhibits, programs, or outreach efforts like OSC’s Neighborhood Science and Science for All Access initiatives. Jason believes genius is everywhere, but sometimes it just needs help to be unlocked.
As an Innovator Member, Jason’s passion for engaging the next generation aligns seamlessly with OSC’s mission to inspire science learning for life. He actively supports efforts to expand access and create equitable opportunities for young minds to discover their potential. His heartfelt mantra, “Why not change the world?” resonates deeply, reminding us that the changemakers of tomorrow are out there, waiting for someone to believe in them.
Jason’s story is a testament to the profound impact of curiosity, determination, and the power of a supportive community. Whether building holograms as a teenager or founding Jonathan’s Landing, his passion for creating opportunities for others reflects the very mission of Orlando Science Center — to inspire science learning for life
Orlando Science Center is honored to have Jason as a part of our Innovators family. Together, we continue working to inspire and empower the next generation of world-changers, ensuring that their dreams, like Jason’s, can become reality.
For more information on how you too can become an Innovator and support the Science Center, please contact Gina Owen, Director of Individual Giving, at gowen@osc.org or 407. 514.2183.
Dine with the Dinosaurs, Dance Under the Stars, Celebrate with Orlando Science Center.
Orlando Science Center invites you to host an unforgettable wedding at a venue as unique as you are. Make a dramatic statement by holding your wedding in our grand five-floor facility conveniently located in beautiful Loch Haven Park.
