newscience NEWS FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF THE SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER
SUMMER 2019
A Volcano Awakens • A City Vanishes
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. – Vice Chairman & Treasurer Dennis A. Muilenburg – Honorary Dr. Thomas F. George Daniel G. Korte Shelley Lavender Frank Thurman Donna Wilkinson
Saint Louis Science Center Board of Trustees Donna Wilkinson – President (Life Trustee) Kevin R. Alm Todd A. Bastean Bryan L. Bell Barbara Bridgewater Lynn Britton James H. Buford Mark J. Bulanda Barry T. Cervantes Lynn A. Cornelius, M.D. Jim Curran Gerald E. Daniels Susan S. Elliott Richard C.D. Fleming G. Patrick Galvin Harvey A. Harris Mary Lee Hermann Dr. Martin H. Israel Frank D. Jacobs Lyda Krewson – Ex-Officio Robert J. Krieger Carol B. Loeb John F. McDonnell (Life Trustee) RADM Lee J. Metcalf, USN (Ret.) Elizabeth E. Niedringhaus Traci O’Bryan Jerry E. Ritter (Life Trustee) Donn Rubin Kent Schien Kathleen R. Sherby Dr. Donald M. Suggs Zar Toolan Kenneth L. Wagner Dr. David J. Werner Dr. Mark S. Wrighton
Connect with curiosity. Dear Saint Louis Science Center Friends, It is hard to believe the year is almost halfway over! Summer is an incredibly exciting season at the Science Center. The building is filled with tourists, summer campers, families and you, our members, and we are always thrilled to welcome everyone to experience the wonder of science, learn something new and have a lot of fun. On May 17, the Science Center opened POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION, an experience like no other. The opportunity to see so many ancient objects that survived one of the most catastrophic events in history is very moving. We have related programming throughout our galleries and Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation in the OMNIMAX® Theater to deepen the member and visitor appreciation of the exhibition. If you haven’t seen the special exhibition yet, I encourage you to plan your visit soon. We are gearing up to celebrate a very exciting milestone for our country and humankind— the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. In June, a Smithsonian traveling exhibition called A New Moon Rises will open in the tunnel leading to the McDonnell Planetarium highlighting the dramatic landscapes captured by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC). The exhibit features over 60 large-scale, detailed photographs, including unique views ranging from Apollo landing sites to mountains that rise out of the lunar poles. In addition, we will host a SciFest and a Star Dates event themed around the anniversary and welcome back Live Sky: Magnificent Moon to the Planetarium and Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon to the OMNIMAX Theater. Speaking of the OMNIMAX Theater, we are getting close to beginning our renovation in August. We are thrilled to be able to offer a new immersive viewing experience, changing to digital technology and adding new audio and laser projection, a new screen, new seating and more. I know we will all miss the OMNIMAX Theater for the few months that it is closed for renovation, but the new OMNIMAX experience will be incredible. We appreciate your understanding during these exciting improvements. You may have recently noticed another enhancement to the Science Center, our new Energy Stage, in the same space where CenterStage was located on the Lower Level. It offers new technology and features that will make demonstrations better than ever, with expanded seating to welcome more guests to the experience. Be sure to catch a new show the next time you visit. Your membership support is vital to our ability to connect people to the wonder of science through our unique exhibits, educational programs, special events and community initiatives. Be sure to check inside this issue for exclusive behind-the-scenes Member Mission events. Thank you for your ongoing support. I look forward to seeing you at the Science Center this summer. Sincerely,
Barbara Boyle Interim President and CEO, Chief Operating and Financial Officer
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.
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Extended Summer Hours May 25–September 2 Monday–Saturday 9:30am–5:30pm Sunday 11am–5:30pm June 6–August 1 Thursday evenings open late ‘til 8:30pm
Features
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
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Experience both the splendor of ancient Rome, when Pompeii bustled as a strategic military and trading city, as well as the powerful eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. which left the city destroyed—yet perfectly preserved. Experience related programming throughout our galleries and at the OMNIMAX film Volcanoes.
Advanced Sales 314.289.4400 Corporate & Group Sales: 314.289.1419
Education Field trip information: slsc.org/field-trips Educator Resources: slsc.org/educator-resources Programming information: 314.289.4439 or education@slsc.org
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Official Partners The Saint Louis Science Center gratefully acknowledges the support of our Official Partners.
Join Us Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing at SciFest and be sure to see A New Moon Rises from the Smithsonian. Catch a new Energy Stage show, Science at Sunset, First Friday and other fun events. Don’t miss our exclusive member events throughout the summer!
Accessibility Complimentary wheelchairs and strollers available in the lobby. Motorized scooters are available for a rental fee. Personal Hearing Assistance Devices available at the OMNIMAXÂŽ Theater and Planetarium. Rear Window Caption Service available for all OMNIMAX films.
OMNIMAXÂŽ Theater Renovations The OMNIMAX Theater will undergo its largest renovation since it was built in 1991. The new IMAX with LaserÂŽ system will create an immersive theater experience and allow for expanded digital screening options and so much more.
Events Host your next private event at the Saint Louis Science Center. Services and catering provided by Saint Louis Science Center Events. For information: 314.533.8179
POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION Now Open
18 Community See the award-winning Loeb Prize educators in our community. Learn how the YES teens lead Summertime Science for thousands of underserved children. Don’t miss CANstruction to support Operation Food Search and our new Unisphere.
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In The News Learn more about our long-standing partnership with Bunge North America and CEE Kay Supply’s support of the new Energy Stage. Plus, highlights from the AgriBusiness Club luncheon with Governor Parson, Weather Day and a grant to support our YES program from Cardinals Care.
Calendar Insert
Member and Public Events
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SPECIAL EXHIBITION
NOW OPEN THRU NOVEMBER 3
The 12,000-square-foot exhibition features over 150 artifacts, hidden from view and forgotten for centuries until rediscovered over 250 years ago. The artifacts, on loan from the prestigious Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy, include frescoes, mosaics, marble and bronze sculptures, and household objects that tell the stories of the people of Pompeii.
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RELATED PROGRAMMING
Experience & discover more throughout the Science Center. OMNIMAX® THEATER
Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation
Explore the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, frozen in time by the catastrophic eruptions of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The sudden disaster that left the city destroyed under 15 feet of ash and debris also preserved a unique record of daily life when Pompeii bustled as a commercial trading city and strategic military port. Throughout the immersive 12,000-squarefoot exhibition, visitors will discover how the people of Pompeii lived, worked, worshipped and found entertainment. “We are thrilled to host POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION which has received tremendous feedback across the country and here at the Science Center since it opened,” says Jackie Mollet, managing director of visitor services for the Saint Louis Science Center. “This is truly a unique opportunity to see what life was like in Pompeii at the height of Roman Empire. From the remarkably preserved works of art and everyday household items to the tragic human devastation of the body casts, this is truly an epic exhibition.”
Members enjoy discount tickets: $12.95 All Ages* Non-members: $19.95 adults | $16.95 seniors | $14.95 children | *FREE for children 4 and under
Discover molten worlds and exploding craters across the globe and the archaeological ghost town of Pompeii —Showtimes throughout the day ENERGY STAGE
KABOOM! Goes the Volcano Learn about volcanoes and what forms them, then watch one explode in front of you! —Every day at 1:15pm ACTIVITY BENCH–LIFE SCIENCE
How do we know about the people of Pompeii? Through archeology! Come learn about archeology to see how we uncover past civilizations. —Open throughout the day MAKERSPACE WORKSHOPS
Mount Goldberg Erupts! Create a crazy chain reaction big enough to erupt a volcano in this Rube Goldberg inspired workshop. Mon.–Fri. 10am–noon & 2pm–4pm | Sat. & Sun. 2pm–4pm DISCOVERY ROOM
What Makes a Mountain? Explore how mountains are formed by the movement of tectonic plates. Then get your hands in the dirt and simulate making a mountain.—During Discovery Room sessions GROW
4-D Eruption Theater recreates the catastrophic power of Vesuvius with vivid sight, sounds and shaking ground.
The poignant casts of victims reveal the tragic human devastation of the sudden disaster that destroyed Pompeii.
Life After Lava: Volcanic Ash —What’s it good for? Learn how volcanic ash shaped our soils, foods and home products. —Open throughout the day GAMEXPLORATION
Fun Games & VR! SPONSORED BY:
Come play games themed around volcanoes and see virtual reality experiences of real volcanoes. —Open throughout the day
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OMNIMAX® THEATER
OMNIMAX® Theater will be transformed with next-generation IMAX® with Laser OMNIMAX Theater will be temporarily closing July 29 & reopening in late November Since 1991, over 8.7 million visitors have seen an OMNIMAX Theater film. The original film projection system will be replaced with next-generation laser technology designed specifically for domed theater environments—IMAX® with Laser. “The Science Center is thrilled to make this major upgrade to our iconic five-story domed OMNIMAX Theater,” said Barbara Boyle, interim CEO of the Saint Louis Science Center. “The changes will create a must-see theater experience with expanded screening options and richer, more immersive images and sound for our visitors.”
• RENOVATED OMNIMAX THEATER HIGHLIGHTS • NEW IMAX with Laser® technology provides the sharpest, • • brightest, clearest and most vivid digital images • NEW IMAX state-of-the-art sound technology delivers • • the ultimate in power and precision for complete audio • • immersion • • • •
NEW digital content including documentaries and blockbuster films—plus upgraded audio/visual technology to livestream and lead the industry with new cutting-edge educational experiences
• NEW wider seats with retractable arm rests for a comfortable • viewing experience • NEW accessibility featuring more space for wheelchairs, • companion seating and upgraded technology for visitors • with visual and hearing impairments • NEW NanoSeam™ screen makes every inch of the dome • surface uniform and seam-free • NEW stage for presentations and special events
THE FIRES of CREATION OPENS FRIDAY, MAY 17 Marvel at one of nature’s most breathtaking shows as you explore molten worlds across the globe and the archaeological ghost town of Pompeii.
OMNIMAX Dinner Series | Friday, June 28 A unique after-hours experience featuring Volcanoes OMNIMAX Theater screening, a special presentation and dinner. See back cover for details.
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LIMITED TIME OMNIMAX SCREENINGS
NOW THRU JUNE 20 NOW SHOWING Journey around the globe in this inspiring true story and experience the life-saving superpowers and extraordinary bravery of some of the world’s most amazing dogs.
In honor of the 75th anniversary of D-Day on June 6.
JULY 12 THRU JULY 21 NOW SHOWING Experience the island of spectacular beauty through the unique lens of the Cubans themselves—artists, scientists and historians.
In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing on July 20.
MEMBERS–enjoy your OMNIMAX Theater membership benefits now thru July 28! The renovated theater will reopen in late November. You will be among the first to experience our newly transformed theater! We will be announcing our preview screening event in the next issue of NewScience.
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JOIN US
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing New exhibit, member event & experiences
Apollo 50th Anniversary Moon Landing Party Star Dates: Dr. Strangelove Friday, July 12 | Doors Open 6:30pm Event Begins 7pm Commemorate the space race at the iconic McDonnell Planetarium with a Dr. Strangelovethemed evening—a kitschy take on what could happen if the wrong person pushed the button. The evening kicks off with a fun conversation with a content expert followed by a screening of Dr. Strangelove. $10 in advance | $15 at the door 21+ event | Includes snacks & cash bar FREE Star Dates parking is located at the McDonnell Planetarium. CALL 314.289.4424 for tickets —tickets are limited
Saturday, July 20 | 9:30am–5:30pm Join us as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first Apollo moon landing as an official NASA anchor site. Meet aeronautics and astronautics professionals, including planetary and moon landing experts! Discover more about the science, technology, ingenuity and effort of the historic mission that landed mankind on the moon 50 years ago. Schlafly Bottleworks and StilL 630 Distillery will sample moon-themed adult beverages. • PARTICIPANTS INCLUDE • NASA Solar System Ambassadors • St. Louis Astronomical Society (SLAS) • St. Louis Rocketry Association • St. Louis Space Frontier • Washington University Earth & • Planetary Sciences Department • LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/scifest
Live Sky: Magnificent Moon June–August | 2:30pm daily | McDonnell Planetarium Explore myths, phenomena, misconceptions and hoaxes related to the moon and the Apollo program to better understand our silent neighbor in space. Discover how anyone can study and explore the moon from your own backyard. After the star show, join Planetarium Educators as they continue to explore concepts related to the moon through demonstrations. FREE for all Members, $7 non-members LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/star-shows
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NEW PLANETARIUM TUNNEL EXHIBIT:
A New Moon Rises From the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Opening Summer 2019! See the moon as you’ve never seen it before! A New Moon Rises features over 60 breathtaking images captured by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC) that was launched in 2009. The compelling collection of images displayed like works of art reveals that our nearest and most familiar celestial neighbor is both strikingly beautiful and still full of mystery. See global views of the moon and lunar landing sites including the historic achievements of the Apollo missions. Discover dramatic terrains and landforms that are similar to those found on Earth and others that are very different. Explore the many ways LROC images are reshaping our understanding of the moon through new discoveries. The Saint Louis Science Center is proud to be the only Smithsonian Affiliate in the St. Louis region. This status has allowed us to host Smithsonian traveling exhibitions like A New Moon Rises and last year’s Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission. As you explore the breathtaking photos of A New Moon Rises, you will also be able to engage with some fan favorites that the Science Center created for the Destination Moon exhibit including the Command and Lunar Modules and Lunar Lander games. A New Moon Rises is made possible by the generous support of NASA and Arizona State University.
Project Mercury & Gemini Member Event Saturday, July 20 | 10am & 1pm FREE Event | T. Rex Room An exclusive opportunity to hear from McDonnell Aircraft Corporation engineers that were behind the scenes of the United States’ first pursuit of space travel—sending an astronaut into orbit and returning him safely to the Earth. Dean Purdy, Jerry Roberts, Norman Beckel and Earl Roberts will provide a panel discussion about their experiences developing the first manned spacecraft. CALL 314.289.4424 for reservations RESERVATIONS REQUIRED —tickets are limited
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GROW Summer Fun New exhibits, events & activities NEW Harvest to Home Exhibit | GROW Pavilion The new interactive exhibit Harvest to Home tells the story of how crops go from the farm and move through a complex network of people, processes and technology to make it all the way to homes. Pour, cook, roll and grind your way through the journey of corn and discover some of the steps it takes to turn corn into multiple products found on your table and in your home. The new exhibit was made possible by Bunge North America. "I know our visitors will be amazed by the creativity, ingenuity and science behind transforming corn into over 2500 products,” says Maddie Earnest, manager of the GROW gallery. “Bunge North America, headquartered right here in our region, is an important agricultural leader in transforming not only corn but also rice, wheat and soybeans."
NEW Vertical Aquaponics Installation Look up in our greenhouse and you will see the newest addition to our aquaponics system. The new vertical installation designed and installed by St. Louis Indoor Produce (SLIP) and Urban Space Farms demonstrates a space-maximizing option for indoor farms.
NEW Mud Pie Kitchen
NEW Mushroom Bed
Dig into our new outdoor kitchen fun with all the tools and containers to mix and mold marvelous mud pie creations. There are even aprons for the busy chefs!
GROW has a new mushroom cultivation bed with help from the Missouri Mycological Society. Look through the window in the GROW Pavilion and see the underground mycelium. If mushrooms were plants, mycelium would be the roots, and the mushroom is the fruit.
UPCOMING GROW EVENT
Dairy Day featuring Prairie Farms Saturday, June 1 | 11am–3pm In celebration of National Dairy Month, you can meet a dairy farmer to learn about the life on the farm and get a close-up look at a dairy cow and calf. You can even try your hand at making butter and other hands-on activities. Prairie Farms will be sampling milks and other dairy products.
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Always something fun in GROW! Join us for our weekly activities.
Chicken Chat
Combine Demo
Monday–Saturday 11am | Sunday 1pm
Monday & Wednesday–Sunday | 2pm
Meet our fine feathered flock of amazing chickens and learn about chicken biology. You will even get to feed the chickens a little treat. Meet outside in the GROW gallery by the chicken coop.
From harvest to home, this machine plays an important role in everyday foods and home products. Learn what it does, how it works and watch us start it up to demonstrate some key features. Meet at the big red combine in GROW.
Fish Feeding
NEW Best in GROW Tour
Sunday–Saturday | 3:30pm
Thursday | 10am
Plants growing in water not soil? It’s true. Check out our aquaponics greenhouse and learn how our bluegill keep the plants healthy. While you are there, you will get a chance to feed the fish. Meet in the GROW aquaponics greenhouse.
FREE 30-minute hands-on tour of GROW highlighting seasonal plantings including backyard and farm field varieties. Open to the first 25 people. Meet in the GROW Pavilion by the seed display cases. Tours are weather-dependent.
UPCOMING GROW EVENT
Rice Day Saturday, July 27 | 10am–3pm The event showcases rice grown in Missouri and enjoyed around the world. Rice farmers will be on hand at the Missouri Rice Council’s demonstration bed with the how-tos of growing and processing rice. See a real rice processing machine and enjoy hands-on activities, rice sampling, outdoor games and giveaways.
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OPEN LATE THURSDAYS
Science at Sunset Join us for after-hours summer fun for all ages
A Volcano Awakens • A City Vanishes
Every* Thursday | June 6–August 1 5:30–8:30pm *Except July 4 Science at Sunset is our Thursday evening summer event featuring music outdoors and other select indoor activities for everyone from friends to families and kids to adults. Enjoy outdoor fun and music in the GROW gallery, OMNIMAX® films and POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION. Let your kids play, and play like a kid, in GameXPloration.
POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION Enjoy evening access to our special exhibition that takes you back in time to the ancient winding streets of Pompeii and learn even more about how the people lived, worked, worshipped and found entertainment before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. See over 150 authentic artifacts and experience the 4-D Eruption Theater. Members Enjoy Discount Tickets $12.95 | FREE for ages 4 & under. $18.95 non-member Science at Sunset tickets | $15.95 seniors | $13.95 children 5–12
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OMNIMAX® THEATER Superpower Dogs | 6pm & 8pm Volcanoes | 7pm See amazing superheroes on four legs and explore exploding craters across the globe all in our five-story domed OMNIMAX Theater. Members Enjoy Your OMNIMAX Theater Ticket Benefits | $6 non-member tickets. *OMNIMAX Theater screenings not available on August 1. Film screening schedule subject to change.
NOW OPEN Energy Stage Our new Joule Our newly designed space gets its inspiration from a Joule—a unit of energy—and with that one unit you can bring so many different things to life! Our educators will use fire, electricity and so much more to bring the states of matter to life right in front of your eyes. The live performances will nurture audience curiosity by inviting participants to the stage to experience these phenomena, too! We will showcase all areas of STEM and even involve all of our galleries on stage. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/energystage
GAMEXPLORATION Join in the fun and games at our FREE fully interactive exhibition featuring 30 immersive experiences. Play everything from board games to video games to virtual reality at this visitor-favorite destination developed by the Science Center.
NEW McDonnell Planetarium Show for Young Learners Campfire Star Stories Begins July 1 | 12:30pm daily Gather around the campfire and discover the many changes we see when day changes to night throughout the year. Hear the seasonal sounds of nature and see stars twinkle across the sky as the wonders of the Earth’s cycle are revealed. Members Enjoy FREE Tickets LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/star-shows GROW GALLERY Head outside for fun in the GROW gallery with live music and $5 food and drink specials at the Fermentation Station. Explore family-favorite outdoor fun and games. Stroll our full acre of beautiful outdoor space filled with seasonal plantings and interact with activities in the GROW pavilion. slsc.org
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JOIN US
Join us for Member Mission Events Expand your curiosity. Connect with your museum. You’re invited to explore, create and share ideas with us at our exclusive events dedicated to bringing our members behind-the-scenes access to our galleries.
Best In GROW Thursday, June 6 | 6–8pm Join us during Science at Sunset for a members-only experience with the GROW gallery team. The evening showcases edible plants during the Can I Eat That tours with samples at each stop. You will explore the soil colors as paint and learn ways to see insects in soil. Don’t miss our Soil Your Underwear kit with backyard soil activities.
Exploring the Ancient World Collections Tour & Lunch
GameXPloration Thursday, August 1 | 6–8pm
Friday, July 26 | 12:30pm Enjoy lunch with our Membership Director and Collections staff and then journey back to ancient Rome, Greece, Egypt, India, China and beyond and see our collection of miniature statues, pottery and sculptures. $10 Members ages 10+ Lunch and tour held at Taylor Community Science Resource Center 4900 Manchester Road | St. Louis, MO 63110
Join us during our last Science at Sunset for Science Gamified! Experience the wonders of virtual reality at our new Energy Stage and then enjoy members-only access to GameXPloration. Learn more with our educators for unique looks at your brain on games, game development and what is behind artificial intelligence.
Member Mission Reservations | CALL 314.289.4424 for tickets | Reservations required | Tickets are limited
Introducing a new series at the Touhill Performing Arts Center National Geographic Live brings renowned photographers, scientists, adventurers and more to audiences around the world to share their unbelievable behind-the-scenes stories and stunning images and video—live onstage. PRESALE TICKETS JUNE 17–23 Public tickets on sale June 24
Discount tickets for Science Center members! Reserved Ticket-per event | $27 Members | $32 non-members VIP Reserved Ticket | $54 Members | $59 non-members includes premium seating, front-of-line book signing and additional themed benefits.
DISCOUNT TICKETS | VISIT touhill.org/promotions | PROMO CODE science
View From Above Friday, November 1, 2019 | 7:30pm TERRY VIRTS | NASA ASTRONAUT Learn about his more than 200 days in space and see incredible images and video that he collected on his many journeys. Photo Credit: Terry Virts
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Membership Matters! We appreciate the opportunity to bring our members unique events and experiences.
MARCH 14
Superpower Dogs OMNIMAX Theater Preview Screening Over 500 members enjoyed a preview screening and special presentation with the film’s producer and fourlegged film star, Henry, and his trainer.
MARCH 16
FIRST Robotics Competition VIP Tours at Chaifetz Arena at Saint Louis University Members had behind-the-scenes access to the FIRST Robotics regional competition with Student Ambassador-led tours of the competition floor and “pits” plus VIP seating.
MARCH 21
Member Mission: Exquisite Inventions Collections Tour & Lunch After lunch with the Membership Director and Collections Team, members had a personalized tour of ancient timekeeping devices, navigational tools, lighting and more.
On the Trail of Big Cats
When Women Ruled The World
Friday, January 31, 2020 | 7:30pm
Friday, March 6, 2020 | 7:30pm
STEVE WINTER | WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER
DR. KARA COONEY | EGYPTOLOGIST
Hear about the adventures of this award-winning photographer and his mission to share the beauty of big cats and work to save them.
Explore a time in ancient history when women were the most powerful people in the world and discover what we can learn from how these women ruled.
Photo Credit: Sharon Guynap
Photo Credit: Mikel Healey
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Geek out from 6– 10pm on the first Friday of EVERY month and explore 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 McDonnell Planetarium. Plus, members-only ticket line! JUNE 7
Marvel’s The Defenders Marvel is back with a focus on The Defenders: Luke Cage, Daredevil, Jessica Jones and the Iron Fist! Come repping your favorite Marvel character and learn more about the real science and technology behind the Marvel Universe. See episodes of The Defenders, FREE in the OMNIMAX Theater at 10pm!
JULY 5
Gladiator Travel back in time to ancient Rome and the world of the gladiator. Learn about the different kinds of gladiators, see a demonstration about gladiator weaponry, try ancient foods and test your chariot racing skills. Don’t miss Gladiator, FREE in the OMNIMAX Theater at 10pm!
AUGUST 2
Star Trek Geek out with some of the biggest fans in the galaxy at our one-of-akind evening featuring our partnership with the Star Trek international fan association, STARFLEET. Get a glimpse inside real Star Trek science and see Star Trek episodes from different eras throughout the evening.
SAVE THE DATE
SEPTEMBER 6 | Pokémon
OCTOBER 4 | Stranger Things
NOVEMBER 1 | Black Mirror
See where your curiosity takes you while connecting with STEM professionals gathered exclusively for our FREE, day-long science and technology themed events. Meet local scientists, engineers and other experts for a personal, close-up look at creative cutting-edge STEM applications.
JULY 20
AUGUST 10
Apollo 50th Anniversary Moon Landing Party
Bright Ideas Expo
Join us as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first Apollo moon landing! NASA Solar System Ambassadors and so much more. See page 8 for details. SAVE THE DATE
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OCTOBER 12 | The Great Outdoors Expo
Meet and work alongside some of the most innovative artists, tinkerers, entrepreneurs, STEM experts and creative types in the St. Louis region and beyond. Get involved and engage your own creativity and bright ideas! NOVEMBER 16 | Health Expo
Preschool Science Series Monday, Tuesday or Saturday* 10– 10:45am GROW Meeting Room Engage your young scientist in STEM-related learning with our Pre-School Science Series. Through interactive stories and hands-on exploration, children will engage with science, language, problem solving and social skills
FREE Open-Access Workshops June–August Monday–Friday | 10am–noon & 2pm–4pm Saturday & Sunday | 2pm–4pm Open-access sessions feature hands-on activities to explore and create. Ages 7+
June 10 & 11 | Bats vs. Birds June 17 & 18 | Insects & Spiders June 24 & 25 | Life Underground July 8 & 9 | Super Sun July 15 & 16 | Marvelous Moon July 20, 22 & 23 | Space Explorer August 10, 12, 13 | Transportation Tech August 19 & 20 | Conservation Innovations August 26 & 27 | Natural Disaster Tech $8 Members per child ages 3+ | $10 non-members. One adult per 4 children required. *During our SciFest events. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/preschool-science-series CALL 314.289.4424 for reservations
Solar Saturdays
Basic Bike Maintenance Repair your ride, tweak it, or just keep it in good working order. See demonstrations of simple repairs and give them a try with tools ready for tinkering, repairing and tuning up bicycles.
June 15 | July 20 | August 17 10am–2pm McDonnell Planetarium Take a look safely through specially filtered telescopes at the fantastic displays found on the sun’s surface with members of the St. Louis Astronomical Society and Science Center educators. Learn about our nearest star and exotic surface features including sunspots, prominence and granulation. (Weather permitting)
Mount Goldberg Inspired by POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION and the OMNIMAX® film Volcanoes—create a chain reaction strong enough to erupt a volcano.
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COMMUNITY
For 24 years, The Loeb Prize has honored outstanding science and math educators in the Saint Louis area that demonstrate a passion to inspire learning. Tim Levine, Algebra 2 and Honors Algebra 2 teacher from Hazelwood West High School, was awarded the Carol B. and Jerome T. Loeb Prize for Excellence in Teaching Science and Mathematics at an event celebrating the finalists at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium on May 14. “I find that every year and every lesson has a new opportunity to connect student curiosity with math curriculum at Hazelwood West,” said Levine. “I want to expand the idea of using math skills in the real world because I strongly believe math is used all the time in everyday life.”
2019 Loeb Prize winner Tim Levine and Carol Loeb
This year’s event also honored Stacey Morgan, who teaches Kinesiology, Sports Medicine and Anatomy/Physiology at MICDS, as the second place honoree. Other finalists included Dan Dougherty from Lindbergh High School and Lynne Scott and Jim Moser from Principia School. All finalists received cash awards and brought their students to the Science Center for the breakfast buffet awards ceremony and a day of fun exploration. The Loeb Prize recognizes and honors outstanding science and mathematics teachers from both middle and high schools in the St. Louis region. "These educators exemplify the best in local STEM education, are leaders in inspiring their students and are exceptional role models. They are technically savvy, innovative in the classroom and masters of their subjects,” said Carol Loeb, a math teacher for 56 years, who along with her husband, the late Jerome T. Loeb, established the Loeb Prize in 1995 in partnership with the Saint Louis Science Center. Carol Loeb also serves on the Saint Louis Science Center’s Board of Trustees.
Loeb Prize winner Tim Levine and his Hazelwood West High School students
“The Science Center’s longstanding partnership with the Loeb Family allows us to not only recognize innovation in the classroom, but to also raise the profile of a select few of our region’s most amazing STEM educators. It is our pleasure to honor and reward them for their passion and incredible dedication to the field.”
Christian Greer Chief Officer of Science, Education, and Experience at the Saint Louis Science Center
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All Loeb Prize honorees with Carol Loeb and Science Center representatives
Science Center Hosts CANstruction Benefitting Operation Food Search EVENT LEAD Hastings + Chivetta EVENT COLLABORATORS BatesForum, Fox Architects, JEMA PARTICIPATING TEAMS BatesForum CRB Fox Architects Gray Design Group Hastings + Chivetta Architects M+H Architects Mackey Mitchell Architects incite Design Studio Shannon & Wilson, Horner Shifrin, CASCO+R/5
June 22–June 30 Vote for your favorite CANstruction design on display through June 30. CANstruction is an international hunger relief charity that collects millions of pounds of food each year for local food banks through a unique design and build competition using canned foods. The Science Center is proud be the St. Louis host site for canned food creations from nine teams of professional architects, engineers, contractors and designers—all to benefit Operation Food Search. The event is organized by Hastings + Chivetta Architects in collaboration with BatesForum, Fox Architects and JEMA. This year’s design theme is Pollinator Week to bring awareness to the importance of pollinators to our everyday lives. “CANstruction is a fun process for a truly great cause as teams come together to build the best structural design out of a truly unusual architectural medium: canned food,” says Preston Scott, associate and project architect Hastings + Chivetta Architects. Paola Badea, architectural designer at JEMA, adds, “From the design to the construction, it really takes a team effort to pull off a successful CANstruction entry.” At the end of the design competition, the thousands of cans of food used to create the structures will be donated locally to Operation Food Search. The Science Center will also be accepting canned food donations for the cause through June 30.
Junior Interns Create Activities to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing Our 2019 Junior Intern “class” will be flying to the moon and beyond! This group of 35 high schoolaged students will join the Gallery Programs Team for a summer of fun and hands-on science engagement. Look for Junior Interns throughout Science Center with great space race-themed activity carts to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. The interns will develop the science content for each space-themed cart from an area of their choosing and then will interact directly with visitors throughout the summer to share their activities. “We are very excited to bring our junior interns not only the unique educational opportunity of creating science content but also get the valuable experience of interacting with our visitors,” says Elisabeth Senzee, associate director of Gallery Programs and Visitor Engagement. slsc.org
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH
NEW Unisphere Brings Planetarium Experiences Off-Site The Science Center can now bring the McDonnell Planetarium experience to off-site groups with our new Unisphere. This portable, inflatable mini-planetarium features cutting-edge technology that will bring the wonders of the night sky to life along with engaging science content for groups up to 30. “This is a great opportunity for our educators to reach people who otherwise may never have a chance to have the immersive experience of exploring planets, moons and galaxies,” says Cate Hanford, associate director of Student and Teacher Programs. “We are really looking forward to bringing our new Unisphere and star-studded programming to schools, scouts and community events.” Featured from left to right: Science Center’s Tim Mulhall, Manager of Youth Development; Jared Farmer, Manager of Teacher Programs; Eric Gustafson, Senior Educator; Matt Gandolfo, Educator; Sam Kenney, Senior Educator; Christian Greer, Chief Officer of Science, Education and Experience
45-MINUTE PROGRAMS WITH SCIENCE CENTER EDUCATORS Ages 5 and up:
One Small Step A simulated rocket launch chronicling the history and science of the Apollo 11 mission.
One Giant Leap Take one giant leap to explore our solar system with a dazzling look at the Earth, moon, sun and planets.
Twinkle, Twinkle Travel beyond the confines of our solar system to see the stars, constellations and asterisms that twinkle in our night sky.
Shake and Quake Explore why earthquakes happen by studying fault lines and other geologic factors from the perspective of Earth’s orbit. UNISPHERE RESERVATIONS | CALL 314.289.4439 EMAIL education@slsc.org
The SoulFisher Ministries STEM Partnership This April, the students and chaperones from The SoulFisher Ministries’ after-school program enjoyed a fun evening of space-themed programming at the McDonnell Planetarium. Students experienced a private star show, the Planetarium’s galleries and a variety of hands-on astronomy activities. The event was a component of the Science Center’s long-standing partnership with The SoulFisher Ministries to improve STEM education in underserved communities. For the past five years, the Science Center’s education team has led after-school and summer programming hosted by The SoulFisher Ministries at two sites in the Riverview Gardens School District.
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SU MMER 2019
The Science Center’s YES program works with underrepresented teens throughout their high school years to increase their interest in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).
YES Summertime Science Program Welcomes Children from the Community The YES teens are set to welcome over 3,000 underrepresented children throughout the summer to exciting STEM activities at the Taylor Community Science Resource Center. Summertime Science brings a unique opportunity for the teens to change gears from YES program student to leadership positions as STEM educators for children from local camps, school groups and community organizations. “Summertime Science significantly benefits our YES teens by giving them an important platform to enhance their leadership and communication skills while reaching thousands of underserved children with the inspiring STEM topics,” says Tim Mulhall, Manager of Youth Development. A grant from The Boeing Company has provided resources for spaceflight and aviation activities. The YES teens will lead a variety of activities including paper airplane design challenges, space food exploration and even flight simulators. The YES teens will also guide The Science of You sessions on digestion, blood circulation, neuroscience and DNA. These sessions are made possible by grant funding provided by GSK and in partnership with the Franklin Institute of Philadelphia. Summertime Science will also feature nature programs for groups at the Litzinger Road Ecology Center (LREC). The LREC is a unique 34-acre study center, managed by the Missouri Botanical Garden, that encompasses a rich variety of habitats. The YES teens will lead groups through creek, prairie and forest explorations and hands-on activities.
Congratulations to the YES Class of 2019 In late April, the Saint Louis Science Center’s YES program celebrated its 20th graduating class of 37 teens. The graduation event featured a salute to YES teens’ many accomplishments, inspiration for their future and a talent show. “We are proud to have witnessed the personal growth of each and every graduate throughout our program of hands-on STEAM experiences, professional interactions and real-world skill building,” says Siinya Williams, senior director of the YES program. ”In fact, of our 37 graduates for 2019, 98% are pursuing STEM-related majors in post-secondary education—this is our highest level in history!” The program is an integral part of the Science Center’s mission “to ignite and sustain lifelong science and technology learning.” Since 1997, 1,135 YES teens have graduated from the Science Center’s program. “Maintaining a balance between formal and informal STEAM learning experiences is of primary importance to the Science Center,” said Christian Greer, chief officer of Science, Education and Experience at the Science Center.
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IN THE NEWS
Weather Day at the Ballpark
PARTNERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
Bunge North America Supports New GROW Exhibit Bunge North America, the St. Louis-based division of agribusiness and food company Bunge Ltd, is a founding partner of the GROW gallery. The company continues to be a key partner in educating our visitors about the journey of food through funding of the new Harvest to Home exhibit in the GROW Pavilion and as a new member of the GROW Advisory Committee. The new Harvest to Home exhibit features hands-on interactive experiences that show the journey of corn and the many steps it takes to turn corn into many food and home products and even ethanol, a renewable fuel. “Agriculture touches every life, every day in the food we eat, and it is important to give everyone an opportunity to understand how the food value chain works,” said Todd Bastean, president and CEO, Bunge North America. “As a leading agrifood company with roots in St. Louis, Bunge is proud to help the Saint Louis Science Center highlight how agriculture will meet the growing global demand for food.”
In April more than 5,000 students from local schools attended Weather Day at Busch Stadium hosted by the Science Center, the St. Louis Cardinals, National Weather Service, KSDK’s Chief Meteorologist Craig Moeller and the entire 5 On Your Side Weather Team. Kids were able to sit up close to the field to learn about severe weather and safety tips, see amazing experiments presented by Science Center educators and have a whole lot of fun with Fredbird. After the presentation, students enjoyed a hands-on educational expo, meet and greet opportunity with the KSDK meteorology team, lunch and the ballgame!
Science Center Awarded Cardinals Care Grant Cardinals Care, the St. Louis Cardinals’ community foundation, awards funding to nonprofit organizations in Cardinals Country who serve or support youths under 20 years old. The Saint Louis Science Center is excited to announce that it has received Cardinals Care grant funding in support of our Youth Exploring Science (YES) program. For two decades, the YES program has worked with underrepresented teens to increase interest in STEAM topics while encouraging successful futures through career and college preparation and life skills training. Funding from Cardinals Care will help sustain the future success of our nationally-recognized program.
CEE KAY Supply Supports Science Center’s New Energy Stage Years of stage-worthy special effects that punctuate our daily presentations, summer camp activities and special events are courtesy of liquid nitrogen donated through by CEE KAY Supply. The cool clouds of liquid nitrogen fun showcase temperature fluctuations, states of matter and even ice cream making. “We are proud to support the Science Center because of their mission to ignite and sustain lifelong science and technology learning,” says CEO of CEE KAY Supply Tom Dunn. “Providing a facility that fosters creativity and the ability to experience science in a whole new light not only impacts anyone in the short term, but can provide the knowledge to lead them in the future.”
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SUMMER 2019
Gateway Information Committee & USDA Supports Urban Ag Day
Teens Construct CANstruction Mural This past February, 40 teens from the Hindu, Muslim, Jewish and Christian faiths joined 10 teens from the Science Center’s YES (Youth Exploring Science) program to create a CANstruction mural themed Play Together-Live Together outside the OMNIMAX Theater. For the sixth year, The Center for Indian Cultural Education—Bal Vihar and Interfaith Quest have organized this collaborative project in partnership with the Science Center. The theme was inspired by the Science Center’s GameXPloration exhibit and the teens’ wish to encourage others to include everyone and to be kind to all because there is always room for more friends. All 2,000 cans were donated to Operation Food Search at the end of mural’s display in early March.
Missouri Governor Presentation at St. Louis Agribusiness Club Missouri Governor Mike Parson, a third-generation farmer, was the keynote speaker to over 150 people at the March 20 meeting of the St. Louis Agribusiness Club.
In April, the GROW gallery hosted Urban Ag Day sponsored by the Gateway Information Committee and USDA. Visitors learned the latest techniques in urban agriculture from experts and educators. The free event featured more than 20 exhibitors and speakers offering interactive activities and informal classes about raising chickens, composting, aquaponics, garden building, beekeeping, edible landscaping and fermentation. “We appreciate the Gateway Information Committee’s continued support of GROW events with educational programming that brings our visitors a better understanding of agriculture,” says Maddie Earnest, manager of the GROW gallery. The GROW team also kicked off the Soil Your Underwear Challenge at Urban Ag Day. The challenge was made possible by a USDA award and featured a take-home kit that will help identify soil health by burying a pair of cotton underwear and other activities.
He noted that agriculture touches every part of Missouri and spoke about the vital importance of the many ag-related businesses located in the St. Louis region. Many of the Science Center’s GROW gallery founding partners were in attendance and are members of the St. Louis Agribusiness Club. The club is a forum for interaction and discussion of important agricultural issues in the St. Louis region. Featured above (left to right): Science Center’s Senior Director of Institutional Advancement Patti LaBrott, Governor Mike Parson, Science Center’s Chief Institutional Advancement Officer G. Patrick Williams, Coordinator for Delta Producer Relations for the Missouri Rice Research and Merchandising Council Laura Tucker
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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
Smithsonian Affiliate Membership Program
OMNIMAX® Dinner Series
Friday, June 28 | Volcanoes 6:30–9pm | 5:30–6:30pm Patron Reception
A unique after-hours experience featuring Volcanoes OMNIMAX Theater screening, special presentation with Wendy MacKeigan, CEO of SK Films and executive producer and co-writer for Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation, and dinner. 21+ event. $45 Members | $55 non-members Includes OMNIMAX Theater screening, dinner, speaker and two drink tickets. NEW for 2019 | $100 Patron Reception Includes meet and greet cocktail reception with guest speaker before the film, priority seating in OMNIMAX Theater, first access to dinner buffet and two drink tickets. LEARN MORE | VISIT slsc.org/dinner-series CALL 314.289.4424 for tickets RESERVATIONS REQUIRED —tickets are limited