NewScience Spring 2018 by Saint Louis Science Center

newscience NEWS FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF THE SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER

OPENING SATURDAY, APRIL 14

SPRING 2018

President's Sidebar Dear Saint Louis Science Center Friends,

Board Members Saint Louis Science Center Board of Commissioners Juan Ferreira - Chairman Eugene M. Toombs - Vice Chairman Joshua Randall - Secretary Timothy J. Eberlein, M.D. - Treasurer Dennis A. Muilenburg - Honorary Dr. Thomas F. George Daniel G. Korte Shelley Lavender William C. Rusnack Donna Wilkinson Saint Louis Science Center Board of Trustees Donna Wilkinson - President Todd A. Bastean Bryan L. Bell Barbara Bridgewater Lynn Britton Travis H. Brown James H. Buford Mark J. Bulanda Barry T. Cervantes Lynn A. Cornelius, M.D. Gerald E. Daniels Darryl W. Davis Arnold W. Donald Susan S. Elliott Richard C.D. Fleming G. Patrick Galvin Harvey A. Harris Mary Lee Hermann William F. Holekamp Benjamin H. Hulsey - Ex-Officio Dr. Martin H. Israel Dr. Hattie R. Jackson Frank D. Jacobs Lyda Krewson - Ex-Officio Robert J. Krieger Carol B. Loeb John F. McDonnell (Life Trustee) RADM Lee J. Metcalf, USN (Ret.) Traci O’Bryan Joseph F. Reagan Jerry E. Ritter (Life Trustee) Dr. Will R. Ross Donn Rubin Kent Schien Steve V. Stenger - Ex-Officio Dr. Donald M. Suggs Dr. David J. Werner Dr. Mark S. Wrighton

The Apollo 11 Lunar Landing is one of those rare milestones in our nation’s history when everyone can remember where they were when it happened. In fact, I was having a conversation the other day with a staff member who recalls her entire family gathered around their tiny black and white television as they experienced a range of emotions from awe to pride to inspiration. This historic feat is the focus of our exciting upcoming exhibition, Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission. We take great pride that the Science Center was selected as one of only four museums nationwide to host this special exhibition from Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. The Science Center is the only institution in the Midwest where guests will be able to see the command module Columbia and twenty artifacts from the mission. We know that for many, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these historic artifacts that have not left the Smithsonian in 46 years and will not leave again for a very long time. Plus, you will be amazed by the unique opportunity to learn about life in the 60s, the vital role St. Louis played in the Space Race, the future of space travel and so much more—all created by the Saint Louis Science Center to enhance the Destination Moon experience. One of the many reasons the Science Center was selected to be one of the tour stops for Destination Moon is our longstanding relationship with the Smithsonian Institution. As you may know, for many years, we have had a Mercury capsule and Gemini capsule on loan from the National Air and Space Museum displayed in the Planetarium lobby. In 2015, we began our pursuit to become a Smithsonian Affiliate. To earn this honor, we participated in a rigorous application process and met a number of criteria. In 2016, we officially became the only Smithsonian Affiliate in the St. Louis area. If you haven’t upgraded your Science Center Membership to include a Smithsonian Membership, I recommend doing so to be able to take advantage of the outstanding benefits. Members have the special opportunity to be the first to see Destination Moon on Friday, April 13, at the preview evening event. It opens to the public on April 14, and as Science Center Members, you will be able to enjoy this special exhibition for FREE! We are proud to be able to offer this benefit to you, and as always, we appreciate your ongoing support. Sincerely,

Bert Vescolani

To ignite and sustain lifelong science and technology learning. Mission of the Saint Louis Science Center

Connect with us for updates, special events and fun science.

Features Hours Monday– Saturday 9:30am–4:30pm Sunday 11am– 4:30pm Extended Hours: See Calendar Insert

Contact 314.289.4400 slsc.org Saint Louis Science Center 5050 Oakland Avenue St. Louis, Missouri 63110

Membership Services & Sales: 314.289.4491 slsc.org/membership memberships@slsc.org Member Reservations: 314.289.4424

Reservations Advanced Sales & Group Reservations: 314.289.4424 Corporate & Group Sales: 314.289.1419

On tour for the first time in 46 years, see the iconic Apollo 11 command module and more than 20 artifacts from the historic mission that landed mankind on the moon. Plus, explore the vital role St. Louis played in the Space Race, how space inspired 60s culture and the future of space travel.

Education Field trip information: slsc.org/field-trips Educator Resources: slsc.org/educator-resources Programming information: 314.289.4439 or education@slsc.org

Events Host your next private event at the Saint Louis Science Center. Services and catering provided by Starlite Events. For information: 314.533.8179

Official Partners

national volunteer week Meet our dedicated volunteers who share a passion for science. We appreciate their countless talents and skills that greatly enhance our organization and provide unforgettable experiences for our guests.

Accessibility Complimentary wheelchairs and strollers available in the lobby. Motorized scooters are available for a rental fee. Personal Hearing Assistance Devices available at the OMNIMAX® Theater and Planetarium. Rear Window Caption Service available for all OMNIMAX films.

new special exhibition from the smithsonian

join us Learn more about the two new exciting films opening in April and May in the OMNIMAX® Theater. Join us for “fun science” at SciFest, First Friday, GROW events, summer camps and more.

community & yes graduates The Science Center’s education team brings STEM programs to community partners and after-school programs and we congratulate the 29 graduates of the YES program.

The Saint Louis Science Center gratefully acknowledges the support of our Official Partners.

science center gala & donor spotlight The Science Center’s gala Mission 11: Destination Moon celebrated the spirit of exploration in human spaceflight. The Science Center has new scooters thanks to Einstein Society Member Al Moore.

in the news Prairie Farms partnership with the GROW Gallery and news of the upcoming FIRST Robotics Competition. Plus, highlights from SciFest: Community Science Showcase and Cardinals Care Winter Warm-Up.

calendar insert Member and public events

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special exhibition

opens saturday, april 14

destination moon: the apollo 11 mission The Saint Louis Science Center is one of only four museums nationwide to host this special exhibition from the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. On tour for the first time in 46 years, see the iconic Apollo 11 command module Columbia, as well as 20 artifacts from the historic mission that landed mankind on the moon. Through original Apollo 11 artifacts, models and videos, visitors can explore the remarkable journey of Apollo 11 and astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins and Buzz Aldrin. “We are honored to have the opportunity to host this exhibition in St. Louis. We know that for many people this will be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see these historic artifacts,” said Bert Vescolani, Saint Louis Science Center president and CEO. On July 24, 1969, Apollo 11 met President John F. Kennedy’s 1961 challenge of “landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the Earth.” The exhibition explores what led the United States to accept this challenge and how the resulting 953,054-mile voyage to the moon and back was accomplished in just eight years after the program was authorized. Destination Moon also sheds light on the trials, tragedies and triumphs of the 20 missions from 1961 to 1969 before Apollo 11.

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The command module Columbia was the living quarters for Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins and the only portion of the spacecraft to return to Earth. Destination Moon includes a new enhanced interactive 3-D tour of the command module.

RUCKSACK #1, SURVIVAL KIT: The kit was to help the crew survive in case of an emergency landing on Earth. It included water containers, a radio beacon and spare battery, sunglasses, desalting chemicals, survival lights, a machete and sunscreen. ALDRIN’S EXTRAVEHICULAR GLOVES: The gloves have an outer, cut-resistant shell across the hands to prevent fatal air leaks caused by handling sharp objects and gauntlets to protect against solar heating. The blue fingertips were made of silicone rubber to provide more sensitivity for touching.

STAR CHART: The chart shows the positions of the sun, moon and stars at the time Apollo 11 was scheduled to leave Earth’s orbit and head for the moon.

tickets on sale march 1

free for all members

ALDRIN’S EXTRAVEHICULAR VISOR: Buzz Aldrin wore this outer helmet while on the surface of the moon. It fit over his clear pressure-bubble helmet.

Non-Members: $10 adults. $8 children/seniors/military. FREE for children 5 and under. Discounts for groups of 10 or more, visit slsc.org/groups

Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission is organized by the National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. The exhibition is made possible by the support of Jeff and MacKenzie Bezos, Joe Clark, Bruce R. McCaw Family Foundation, the Charles and Lisa Simonyi Fund for Arts and Sciences, John and Susann Norton, and Gregory D. and Jennifer Walston Johnson. Transportation services for Destination Moon are provided by FedEx.

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special exhibition

A sneak peek at space-themed artifacts from the engaging experiences and exhibits that await as you enter and exit Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission. A truly unique opportunity to learn about life in the 60s, the vital role St. Louis played in the Space Race, American heroes of exploration and the future of space travelâ&#x20AC;Śall created by the Saint Louis Science Center.

o t re

o M n

e v E

Space-Themed

Life in the 60s

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l p Ex

â&#x20AC;Ś e or

member events

The Vital Role St. Louis Played

special exhibition preview destination moon: the apollo 11 mission

in the Space Race

Friday, April 13 from 5–9pm FREE Event! Timed-Entry Ticket Is Required Members see it first! Explore Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission after hours. Entry times: 5pm, 5:30pm, 6pm, 6:30pm, 7pm, 7:30pm, 8pm. Last entry at 8pm. CALL 314.289.4424 for tickets RESERVATIONS REQUIRED - tickets are limited

fly me to the moon collections tour Thursday, April 26 at 1:30pm & 3pm Just for Members: a behind-the-scenes look at the Science Center’s 1950s and 60s space-themed artifacts featuring action figures, games, play sets and other pop culture items. $10 Members- ages 14+.

Future of Space Travel & Exploration

Tours held at the Taylor Community Science Resource Center, 4900 Manchester Road, St. Louis, MO 63110 CALL 314.289.4424 for tickets RESERVATIONS REQUIRED - tickets are limited

new member gift: vr viewer Renew today and receive your FREE Members-only VR Viewer Experience immersive 360-degree panoramic views with the NEW Member gift VR Viewer and your smartphone. While supplies last.

smithsonian affiliate membership program Two Memberships In One Enjoy the benefits of your Science Center Membership PLUS Smithsonian Affiliate Membership when you upgrade or join at the Family & Friends MAX level. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/smithsonian

save the date The space program started right in St. Louis. Learn where the moon was mapped and how McDonnell Aircraft’s work on the Mercury and Gemini programs led to successful Apollo missions. Step back in time to 1960s street scenes and even a home all set to watch the Apollo 11 moon landing. See space-inspired toys, books and more. Explore the future of spaceflight that will send humans further than ever before for a giant leap closer to a manned mission to Mars.

saturday, june 9 Destination Moon Member Field Trip Details for upcoming Member event in the next issue of NewScience.

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Experience & Explore the Moon, Space & Beyond

NEW Planetarium Show Live Sky: Magnificent Moon Opens April 14 - 2:30pm Daily James S. McDonnell Planetarium Our NEW premium Planetarium show dedicated to exploring moon myths, phenomena and misconceptions. Learn how the moon formed, the lunar phases, what a supermoon actually is, what drove humans to explore the moon and more. After the show, the premium Planetarium experience continues with educator-led exploration of moon concepts and debunking of lunar hoaxes. FREE for all Members, $7 non-member adults. $6 children/seniors.

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Science at Sunset: NEW Space-Themed Movie Series

Destination Moon Field Trip Packages

Thursdays this Summer: June 7–August 9 from 5–8pm

Begins April 16

NEW to Science at Sunset - FREE space-themed OMNIMAX® Theater screenings every Thursday evening. Plus, enjoy food, drink specials and live music in our outdoor GROW gallery, explore the Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission special exhibition and experience galleries after hours.

School groups, scouts, organized groups and families can learn more about the Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission special exhibition. All field trips include a guided tour of the exhibition with the option to add an educational program or a specialized Planetarium show. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/field-trips | CALL 314.289.4439

VR TRANSPORTER: SPACEWALK-DANGER IN ORBIT

SUMMER SCIENCE BLAST CAMPS: SPACE SESSIONS

Be “transported” into space and see Earth as never before with our motion-based virtual reality ride using the latest visual display technology. Experience the dangers of living and working in space as you tour the International Space Station. $9 Members. $10 non-members. Must be at least 42 inches to ride.

Out of this world science camp fun for ages 4-16! From There’s No Place Like Space to Lunar Landers, there are plenty of ways to explore the moon and beyond all summer long at Summer Science Blast Camp. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/summer-camps | CALL 314.289.4439 | EMAIL daycamps@slsc.org

NEW LIGHTING IN GEMINI SPACECRAFT 3A The Liftoff Gallery at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium Take a look at the newly illuminated interior cabin of Gemini Spacecraft 3A. With guidance from the Smithsonian, a new LED-based fiber optic system was added to safely light the control panels and the interior cabin. The spacecraft was built in St. Louis by McDonnell Aircraft Corporation in 1964.

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National Volunteer Week! April 15–21 We appreciate our dedicated Saint Louis Science Center volunteers that share a passion for science and serving the community. They have countless talents and skills that greatly enhance our organization and provide unforgettable experiences for our guests.

in 2017...

364

volunteers ages 19-94

from

CENTERSTAGE Maxwell Sorensen, chemistry student at Washington University, appreciates the chance to broaden his public speaking skills through volunteering at CenterStage. He can be found captivating audiences with his “Boiling Hot, Boiling Cold” demonstrations.

zip codes volunteered a total of

20,870

hours of service

Join the Saint Louis Science Center Volunteer Team We welcome volunteers to engage in exciting and engaging opportunities throughout the museum including our NEW Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission special exhibition. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/volunteer-opportunities | CALL 314.289.4412 | EMAIL volunteer@slsc.org 10

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DISCOVERY ROOM Carmen Sertl is a retired educator who also works part-time. She believes in service to the community and has been a volunteer since 1991. Carmen always enjoys seeing children engage with the many math activities in the Discovery Room.

FOSSIL LAB

PUBLIC PROGRAMS

LIFE SCIENCE LAB

Mark Fedde restores dinosaur fossils and participates in dinosaur digs in Montana for the Science Center. A retired cartographer, he enjoys sharing with visitors how dinosaur fossils and geology provide a rich testimony of the past.

Taylor Szasz channels her experience as an engineer and immunology lab technician to scout programs, workshops and camp-ins. Her lifelong love of science inspires her dedication to engaging on a personal level with program attendees.

Myra Ball enjoys learning and sharing new things that are different from her position as an IT professional. One of her favorite activities is to help visitors examine their own cheek cells with the microscope. She loves how hands-on activities create enthusiasm for science.

MAKERSPACE

GROW GALLERY

VISITOR SERVICES

Jack Janssen loves encouraging visitors to be creative. He is on the autism spectrum and appreciates the many opportunities to get out of his comfort zone to discover and share the creative side of science— especially at his favorite Scribble Bot classes.

Paul Paulson’s retirement brought an opportunity to showcase his career processing grains from crops into animal and human foods. He particularly enjoys engaging with teenagers to spark interest for the biochemistry within plant sciences.

Jackie Rowark is a retired ER nurse that really enjoys welcoming the wide range of Science Center visitors from all over the world or just around the corner. She loves learning about the visitors and suggesting just the right activities for everyone’s ages and interests. s ls c.org

join us

new imax® original film opens friday, april 6

pandas Travel to China for the heartwarming story of giant pandas raised in captivity as they learn to “go wild.” The pandas are full of adorable play and antics as the Chinese use techniques learned from an American wildlife biologist’s experiences rearing orphaned black bears.

member event

Preview Screening Thursday, April 5 6pm & 7:30pm Just for Members! Join us for a preview screening of Pandas. CALL 314.289.4424 for tickets | RESERVATIONS REQUIRED —seating is limited

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omnimax® theater

see it before it closes monday, april 30 The epic, true story of naturalist Henry Bates’ fascinating 11 year journey through the Amazon rainforest as a young man who risks his life for science in the 1850s.

opens friday, may 25

aircraft carrier: guardian of the seas Experience being aboard a modern aircraft carrier in this stunning tribute to one of the greatest engineering feats of history. The Rim of the Pacific maritime training exercises provide a stunning visual context for the crucial role modern aircraft carriers and the 5,000 highly skilled sea and air personnel play in maintaining the freedom of the seas. The immersive experience features spectacular aerial shots and unbelievably up-close flight deck footage—all perfect for the giant screen of the OMNIMAX Theater.

member event

Preview Screening Thursday, May 24 6pm & 7:30pm Just for Members! Join us for a preview screening of Aircraft Carrier: Guardian of the Sea. CALL 314.289.4424 for tickets | RESERVATIONS REQUIRED —seating is limited

now open A breathtaking adventure to the lush tropical island of remote West Papua, home to more than 2,000 species of sea life. Join Jawi, a young island boy, on a journey of discovery to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems on Earth.

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Meet STEM experts for an exciting look at real science and technology innovations EVERY month! Explore new fields with your young scientist, find new hobbies and meet real STEM professionals and learn cutting-edge science and technology.

march 10 i <3 pi

april 14 brain matters

may 12 tornado alley

Pi returns to the Science Center, just a bit early. Celebrate 3.14 on March 10 and learn more about the mathematical constant and how it makes its way into our daily lives. Meet real mathematicians, join in the Pi parade and watch real pie go splat—all sure to prove once and for all that math is really fun!

It’s time to put your heads together for fun activities about the brain and how it plays tricks to blow your mind! Meet scientists, play memory games and hold a real human brain at Washington University’s Amazing Brain Carnival. Bring your “gray matter” as you learn about how you think and think about how you learn.

St. Louis experiences more than its our fair share of ever-changing weather phenomena. Meet the local experts and meteorologists studying tornados, storms, forest fires and other extreme weather patterns. Plus, learn how you can keep yourself safe during dangerous natural disasters. Photo credit: Justin1569 at English Wikipedia

scifest 2018

june 16

july 21

august 11

september 22

october 13

november 10

Paws & Claws

One Giant Leap

Bright Ideas Expo

Rock, Fossil, Quake

The Great Outdoors

Healthy U.

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FIRST FRIDAYS

save the date first fridays june 1 Jurassic World

july 6

Geek out from 6– 10pm on the first Friday of EVERY month and explore

Star Trek

the intersection of science and science fiction! Enjoy local artists and innovators, themed trivia, hands-on activities and FREE screenings in the OMNIMAX® Theater and James S. McDonnell Planetarium. Plus, Members-only ticket line.

Arthurian Legends

august 3

september 7 Harry Potter

march 2

Indiana Jones Dig into a night of exploration and adventure! Hear all about real-life archaeological adventures from Dr. Chris Begley, known as “the real-life Indiana Jones.” Learn about Missouri excavations and how you can become a backyard archaeologist. End the night by seeing Raiders of the Lost Ark, FREE in the OMNIMAX Theater!

october 5 The Goonies

november 2 Bourne, Bond and Beyond

december 7 Doctor Who

april 6

The Dark Crystal Explore the beloved Jim Henson fantasy classic, as we welcome Caseen Gaines, author of Dark Crystal: The Ultimate Visual History. Learn about the film’s creative journey and special effects. Try your hand at puppet-making and puppetry. Catch a FREE screening of Dark Crystal in the OMNIMAX Theater at 10pm.

may 4

ST. LOUIS SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY SHORT FIL FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY THE SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CINEMA ST. LOUIS

Movie Magic, featuring the St. Louis Science Fiction and Fantasy Short Film Festival

#FridayGeekOut Geek out and share your First Friday fun on

Go behind-the-scenes at the movies at this NEW regional film competition presented by the Science Center and Cinema St. Louis. View competition entries and learn about cinematography, special effects, editing and more by trying it yourself! At the end of the evening, festival winners will be screened in the OMNIMAX Theater.

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join us

FAMILY URBAN FARMER SERIES March 17 | Mushroom Growing Workshop April 21 | Backyard Chickens 10am–Noon in the GROW Pavilion Learn backyard basic coop ideas and how to care for the flock. Per session: $16 Members. $18 non-members. For adults and children ages 10+.

PRAIRIE FARMS SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT APRIL 7 | 11AM–3PM Enjoy samples from Prairie Farms, meet live farm animals and enjoy a scavenger hunt outside in GROW to welcome spring.

PRESCHOOL SCIENCE

SERIES

preschool science series makerspace classes Test your inner designer, maker and engineer at inventive classes March & April | Robots Engineer your very own android buddy. In this beginner class use basic tools and equipment to fabricate a working bot. Mon.–Sun. 1:30pm | 10:30am & 1:30pm: March 1–3, 10, 12–17, 19, 21-31 & April 7, 14, 21, 28 May | Hand 2.0 Create your own amazing bio-mechanical hand using our laser engraver and hand tools. Mon.–Sun. 1:30pm | 10:30am & 1:30pm: May 5, 12, 19, 26–31

*Prices are per project and multiple people can work on the same project.

Your young scientist will explore, investigate and engage in STEM topics through hands-on science exploration. $8 Members per child ages 3+. $10 non-members. One adult per 4 children required.

LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/pre-school-science-series | CALL 314.289.4424 for reservations

$8 Members ages 7– 14. $10 non-members.

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Summer Science Blast Camps JUNE 4–JUNE 29 & JULY 9–AUGUST 10 The cure for the “common camp” for preschoolers to teenagers, sure to keep kids excited about STEM learning all summer long. AGES 4-5 | Morning and afternoon camps include I Can Dig It, There’s No Place Like Space, NEW! Energy Excitement and more! AGES 6-7 | Morning and afternoon camps include Icky Sticky Science, Junior Astronaut Academy, NEW! Design and Demolish and more!

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AGES 8-9 | Full day camps include NEW! The Science of Superpowers, NEW! Shoot for the Moon, NEW! Machine Masterminds and more. AGES 10-12 | Full day camps include Robots Rewired, NEW! Zombie Survival Camp, NEW! Lunar Landers and more. AGES 13-16 | Full day camps include Flight Academy, Design It Build It, NEW! Veterinary Voyage and more.

MEMBERS-ONLY CAMP DISCOUNT 20% OFF Summer Science Blast Camps for Family & Friends Plus and MAX Level Members LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/summer-camps | CALL 314.289.4439 | EMAIL daycamps@slsc.org

family VET SCHOOL est. 2017

scout workshops new family vet school workshops

Bring the whole troop or enroll individually for unique STEM programs just for Scouts

Saturdays 1– 3pm in the Life Science Lab

Boy Scout & Girl Scout Badge Workshops

March 17 | Exotic Large Animals April 14 | Exotic Birds Explore the exciting world of veterinary science including animal physicals, surgery and preventive medicine with professionals from the Saint Louis Zoo and the Humane Society of Missouri. Per session: $16 Members-per person. $18 non-members. For adults and children ages 11+. Adults must register to participate with children. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/family-vet-school | CALL 314.289.4439 for reservations

March 3 | 11:30am: Wolf-Air of the Wolf & 1:30pm: Senior-Sky March 11 | 11:30am: Brownie-Bugs & 1:30pm: Bear-Robotics April 7 | 11:30am: Webelos-Adventure in Sci & 1:30pm: Brownie-Home Sci April 15 | 11:30am: Junior-Ent. Tech & 1:30pm: Bear-Super Science May 5 | 11:30am: Wolf-Germs Alive & 1:30pm: Brownie-Senses $10 per session per scout. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/scout-programs | CALL 314.289.4424 to register | EMAIL education@slsc.org

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community

The Little Bit Foundation STEM Partnership For the past four years, the Science Center’s education team has partnered with The Little Bit Foundation to bring STEM programming to 12 Saint Louis Public Schools. The partnership has reached over 2,800 students with a focus on improving STEM education in underserved communities. “We are so happy to team up with the Science Center in delivering our Ignite STEM program to our partner schools,” says The Little Bit Foundation Executive Director and Co-Founder, Rosemary Hanley. “Many of the students we serve have never had meaningful exposure to science, and the Science Center’s hands-on activities really bring those concepts to life. The students absolutely love it.” The education team has brought the Science Center’s signature Amazing Science Demonstrations to the schools to creatively introduce students to scientific themes like stormy weather, Newton’s Laws and the changing state of matter. Science Center educator Cass Schneider teaching students at Koch Elementary about changing states of matter.

“We are inspired by The Little Bit Foundation's commitment to helping disadvantaged school children and take great pride in partnering with them to impact STEM education in the Saint Louis Public Schools,” says Pam Braasch, Saint Louis Science Center director of Education.

Science Center educator Sam Kenney leading a program on polymers for students at The SoulFisher Ministries.

After-School STEM Programs After the final school bell rings, Science Center educators are hard at work leading after-school STEM programs at 11 different schools weekly in the St. Louis area throughout the year. Each program is designed to supplement classroom concepts and inspire a deeper interest in STEM content through unique levels of hands-on learning. Students at MICDS and Community School appreciate these unique STEM learning opportunities. Students can be found creating bubbles with dry ice, extracting DNA from strawberries, reverse engineering a catapult and building a bottle snail habitat, all to expand their STEM learning experiences.

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Thanks to 21st Century Community Learning Center grants, funded through the U.S. Department of Education, the Science Center has partnered with Saint Louis Public Schools, The SoulFisher Ministries and Better Family Life to reach underserved students with after-school STEM programming. “We are proud to bring STEM programming to these schools which provide students a safe and intellectually stimulating after-school option,” says Christa Hanford, manager of Public Programs. “Our educators build relationships with students and teachers to not just reinforce STEM concepts taught in class, but also to help individuals personally identify with STEM in their everyday lives.” LEARN MORE | EMAIL Christa Hanford manager of Public Programs at christa.hanford@slsc.org | CALL 314.289.4430

Congratulations to the YES Class of 2018! Graduation is a time of both excitement and reflection on the many accomplishments of the YES teens. The YES program is one of the longest running and most successful outreach programs at the Science Center. Starting in their freshman year, YES teens dedicate many hours to attending the four-year program devoted to developing the tools needed for a successful transition into higher education or a career. This year, 29 seniors will be celebrated at the YES Program graduation on April 28. They have all grown professionally and academically with plans to study fields as varied as electrical engineering, entrepreneurship and forensic science. The graduating seniors expressed gratitude to the YES Program. “YES helped me to be more involved in the community, to become more outgoing and to really learn how to communicate well with others, and I’m very thankful for that,” says Tylia Selfe, who is majoring in nursing. Tajah Miller, who is majoring in broadcast news, added that “YES is a family, and it taught me a work ethic and positive thinking skills.”

Saint Louis Science Center’s YES Program works with underrepresented teens throughout their high school years to increase interest in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEaM). YES Teens also gain professional, academic, college-ready and realworld skills that assist in building self-confidence and personal success.

29 yes 2018 graduates COLLEGE

95%

IN-STATE

OUT OF STATE

STILL DECIDING

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE RATE

MAJOR

The future is bright for all the graduating YES seniors, and we wish them well at college!

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YES We would like to thank all our donors and especially recognize our donors who gave $500 and above. Robert and Pauline Ashton The Boeing Company Cognizant Technology Solutions The Commerce Trust Company G. Patrick Galvin Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals John F. McDonnell Lee J. Metcalf Philip Needleman, Ph.D Laura J. Niles Foundation John D. Sprague Norman J. Stupp Foundation St. Louis Blues

5 ENGINEERING

5 HEALTH SCIENCES

3 COMPUTER SCIENCE

3 SCIENCE

??? 3 BUSINESS

3 COMMUNICATIONS

1 THEATER

6 STILL DECIDING

YES PROGRAM

750

average

hours

EACH STUDENT ATTENDED OVER 4 YEARS OF THE YES PROGRAM

1098

YES TEENS HAVE GRADUATED FROM THE YES PROGRAM SINCE 1997

YES TEENS HAVE A HIGHER THAN NATIONAL AVERAGE RATE FOR STEM FIELD PLACEMENTS s ls c.org

The James S. McDonnell Planetarium was the perfect stage for the Saint Louis Science Center’s Gala Mission 11: Destination Moon. The biennial fundraising event was held on December 9, 2017. From the moon-lit table décor to a prototype spacesuit of the future, the evening was filled with thematic tributes to the spirit of exploration in human spaceflight featuring a multi-media preview of the upcoming special exhibition, Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission, from the Smithsonian. NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson captivated gala supporters with accounts of spaceflight, including his command of the final mission of the space shuttle program aboard the Endeavour. A very special thank you to the Gala Committee chairs, Cathy Berges, Barbara Bridgewater, Judy Harris, Mary Lee Hermann, Peggy Ritter and Donna Wilkinson for planning the exciting evening. The Saint Louis Science Center extends its deepest appreciation to the Boeing Company and The McDonnell Family and the many generous sponsors that made Mission 11: Destination Moon gala possible. The truly memorable evening will long inspire the spirit of exploration at the Saint Louis Science Center. All photos courtesy of Bill Webster.

thank you TO OUR GALA SPONSORS Presenting Sponsors

Donna Wilkinson, Board of Commissioners and President-Board of Trustees and Chris Ferguson

The Boeing Company The McDonnell Family James & Elizabeth McDonnell John & Anne McDonnell Randy & Veronica McDonnell Greg & Marcella McDonnell Stevens Jeff & Jennifer McDonnell Alicia McDonnell Holly & Will James Jeanne & John Champer Kitty & Antonio Pipoli JSM Charitable Trust Golden Sponsor Emerson Premier Sponsors Centene Corporation Edward Jones

Judith Toombs and Eugene Toombs, Board of Commissioners

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Major Sponsors KPMG Monsanto Company U.S. Bank Mr. and Mrs. James G. Berges The Honorable Sam Fox and Mrs. Fox Mr. and Mrs. Jerry E. Ritter Sponsors Electrical Connection Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Company, LLC IBEW Local 1 Mr. and Mrs. Kent F. Schien NECA, St. Louis Seiler Instrument and Manufacturing Company, Inc. Patron Ticket Sponsors Mr. and Mrs. B.A. Bridgewater, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Eberlein Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Harris Mr. and Mrs. William C. Rusnack Donna Wilkinson Dr. Mark S. Wrighton and Mrs. Risa Zwerling-Wrighton

donor spotlight

The McDonnell Family

Al Moore Member of the Albert Einstein Society Mr. Alwal “Al” B. Moore is a long-time member of the Einstein Society who has an interest in making a difference at the Science Center. He has long enjoyed visiting the Science Center but found, like many, that navigating the large footprint became increasingly difficult with age. The Science Center’s dedication to accessibility included wheelchairs, but Al had a better idea. In January, he donated eight electric scooters! “It can be challenging for elderly people to get across the massive main building and Planetarium,” he says.

Left to right: Tracy Hart, former Board of Commissioners; RADM Lee J. Metcalf, USN (Ret.), Board of Trustees; Helena Venegas

At age 92, Al serves as chairman and chief executive officer of Moore Food Distributing, a foodservice business he started in 1987 that partners with numerous restaurants and foodservice operators throughout the region. Al lives in Sunset Hills, Missouri where he has resided since 1942, with his partner Lee Riggs. Featured above, left to right, Vincent Piazza from Institutional Advancement, Vickie Corkhill and Michelle McGruder from Visitor Services with Al Moore and Lee Riggs. Motorized scooter rental is $25 for visitors age 18 and over. Available in the main lobby. LEARN MORE About Donor Society Levels | EMAIL Vincent Piazza director of Annual Funds/ Institutional Advancement at vincent.piazza@ slsc.org | CALL 314.289.4405

Marsha Rusnack and William C. Rusnack, Board of Commissioners

Left to right: Chris Ferguson, Shelley Lavender, Board of Commissioners and John F. McDonnell, Board of Trustees

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in the news

partnership spotlight Lewis Diuguid, author of Our Fathers, Making Black Men

SciFest: Community Science Showcase

Prairie Farms is a founding partner of the GROW Gallery and has been an outstanding resource for bringing the story of how milk gets from farm to the table to education programs and public events at the Science Center. “Prairie Farms is proud to provide unique opportunities for Science Center visitors to learn first-hand how our 900 regional farm families care for their animals and use farm technology to safely produce fresh milk,” says Rebecca Leinenbach, Vice President of Marketing for Prairie Farms. Prairie Farms has sponsored scavenger hunts, new milk product samplings and special “meet the farmers and their cows” events. They are also a major sponsor of the Dairy Cow Simulator, a GROW Gallery hands-on favorite that lets visitors see what it is like to milk a cow and how to hook up mechanical milking machines.

The Saint Louis Science Center celebrated the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday with SciFest: Community Science Showcase. The 28th annual event highlighted underrepresented STEM professionals and role models, including women, minorities and persons with disabilities. Guests could learn how to program with FIRST Robotics, see their DNA with Sigma Millipore, code with Girls Inc. and see how an electric car works from Ameren UE. Draya Buckner from the Science Center’s YES Program presented the benefits of drones and how they can be used for everyday tasks like shipping packages and surveying land. Missouri Kids Unplugged shared the importance of clearing your hard drive before donating electronics. The weekend was filled with exciting entertainment from Storman Academy Jazz Band and the Capa Showstoppers dancers. The weekend featured a presentation and book signing with Lewis Diuguid, author of Our Fathers: Making Black Men. He discussed the remarkable legacy of his father, Dr. Lincoln Diuguid of DuGood Laboratory, founded in 1947 in South Saint Louis. He spoke about how his parents stressed education and family and the important life lessons from his neighborhood that successfully created a sense of community for boys.

PRAIRIE FARMS SUPPORTS THE SCIENCE CENTER Our Caps Your Cause Program • Purchase Prairie Farms products with special cap stickers

Science Center Educators Support Cardinals Care Winter Warm-Up • Enter code online or deposit in the GROW Pavilion • For every cap collected, Prairie Farms donates • 5 cents to the Science Center LEARN MORE | VISIT prairiefarms.com/ourcapsyourcause

SPRI N G 201 8

The Saint Louis Science Center’s education team was proud to support the hometown team at the Cardinals Care Winter Warm-Up this past January. Over 1,000 Cardinals fans enjoyed the Science Center’s “cool science” activities of solid dry-ice and transferring gases, color-changing crystal balls and bubbles that can be held without popping throughout the three-day event. This annual event benefits Cardinals Care, the team’s community foundation supporting kids.

FIRST ROBOTICS COMPETITION ST. LOUIS REGIONAL 2018 SPONSORS Major Educational Partner Saint Louis Science Center Platinum Sponsor The Boeing Company Heartland Coca-Cola Company Emerson Rockwell Automation Gold Sponsor Monsanto The Saigh Foundation The Seeser Family St. Louis Community College – Florissant Valley Saint Louis University Silver Sponsor Cardinals Care Foundation Electrical Connection IBEW, Local 1 NECA, St. Louis James Mulligan Printing Friends of FIRST Harry Baker The Doerr Family Dr. and Mrs. Ernest G. Jaworski Carol B. Loeb

FIRST Robotics Competition FREE & Open to the Public Friday, March 9–Saturday, March 10 Saint Louis University Chaifetz Arena Everyone is invited to the regional FIRST Robotics Competition featuring 46 teams from Missouri and throughout the Midwest, all vying to reach the next level of national competition. The two-day competition celebrates “the hardest fun ever” as it combines the excitement of sports with the rigors of science and technology. Since 2002, the Saint Louis Science Center has been a major educational partner for the FIRST Robotics Competition, managing the all-volunteer planning committee. “We are proud of our longtime commitment to supporting the inspiring team experiences that build self-confidence and life skills while motivating the students to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering,” says Paul Freiling, director of Emerging Technologies.

The challenge begins for each high school student team with an intense six weeks of raising funds, designing a team brand and building and programming an industrial-size robot to compete at challenging field games against other teams. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team. FIRST teams are recruited from diverse settings, from small private schools to inner-city public schools. Often, each team represents one school, but several teams have been formed through collaboration among several schools within a school district or geographic area. In 2018, the FIRST Robotics Competition will reach 90,000 high-school students representing more than 3,600 teams. The competition season culminates with 63 Regional Competitions, 85 District Competitions and 10 District Championships. The two FIRST Robotics Competition 2018 Championships will host 800 qualifying teams in Houston and Detroit at the end of April. LEARN MORE | VISIT stlfirst.org | CALL 314.286.4628

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NewScience is now GREEN The Saint Louis Science Center is a committed steward of the environment. We are proud to offer the sustainable choice of receiving the interactive online version of NewScience, as well as a downloadable PDF. Sign up by sending an email to memberships@slsc.org if you would like to no longer receive a paper subscription. You can also send us an email if: • Your email address has changed • Your name is misspelled • Your address is incorrect

Smithsonian Affiliate Membership Program

Thursdays This Summer June 7–August 9 ENJOY food and drink specials and live music in the GROW gallery. FREE space-themed films in the OMNIMAX® Theater. EXPLORE Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission special exhibition and experience our galleries after hours.