Pacific Science Center

What's In The Summer Sky?

2009-07-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

Planning on a little stargazing this summer? May we suggest a stop by Pacific Science Center's famous →Willard Smith Planetarium first? Our Planetarians will get you ready with plenty of tips and a look at what's up there in the summer sky. For a quick glance, be sure to check out Pacific Science Center Planetarium Specialist Alice Enevoldsen's always great AstroInfo blog for a look at the →July-August sky.

Members Get A 'Harry' Discount!

2009-07-09T08:09:00.000-07:00

Receive a discount on tickets to this summer's most highly-anticipated sequel: Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince: The IMAX Experience by signing up for a membership today! Members receive over a 20% discount on all full-feature IMAX films, and Platinum and Titanium members receive free passes. For more information on memberships, visit our →Membership site or call the Membership Office at (206)443-2924.

PacSci-Doku: Strange Animal

2009-07-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

Our latest bi-weekly science word puzzle is a tough one. It's all about a critter that seems to defy some of the laws of nature! Can you solve the "Strange Animal" edition of →PacSci-Doku?

Animal Grossology: The Importance Of Poop

2009-07-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

Part of our current Animal Grossology exhibit is all about animal feces. OK...it's all about animal poop. How to identify different kinds and how certain insects live in the stuff. Sure, it's a fun way for folks of all ages to learn more about animals, but is there a practical application for studying animal poop? Glad you asked. A recent article shows how researchers will be able to accurately count and assess tiger populations in India by identifying individual animals from the unique DNA signature found in their dung. It may be gross but it's fascinating. Take a look at →the article then stop by →Animal Grossology to learn even more!

Slough News: Wild About Wetlands

2009-07-09T07:56:00.002-07:00

Our next Family Workshop at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center in Bellevue is this Saturday, July 11 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. It's wet, it's wild, it's all about the Slough. Use hands-on activities to find out how much of the water on earth we can use, and what a watershed is. Learn why the Slough and other wetland areas are so important to us. Examine Seattle muck, and participate in a filter challenge. Donations welcome. →Map and Directions.

Around The Americas: Sailing To Barrow

2009-07-09T07:56:00.001-07:00

The crew of Ocean Watch finally set sail from Nome headed for Barrow, AK. They were delayed a bit because of heavy ice farther north. Ocean Watch will be under sail the rest of this week as the Around The Americas voyage really gets interesting with the 64-foot vessel getting closer to the Northwest Passage. Follow this incredible adventure at →AroundTheAmericas.org.

Science With A Twist...And Harry Potter

2009-07-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

Tickets for our next 21+ event are selling fast and the reason is simple: this Science With A Twist involves the world's most popular young wizard. Make your plans now to join us for science, cocktails, and Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince: The IMAX Experience! That's July 30, with cocktails and science demonstrations at 6 p.m. and the film showing at 7:20 p.m. →Get your tickets now!

Summer Science Fun!

2009-07-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

Pacific Science Center is coming to your community! Come see us July 11 at the →Wallingford Seafair Kiddies Parade, →Mercer Island's "It's A Small World" Parade, and →Allstate Milk Carton Derby. On July 12 see us at →Kent Cornucopia Days. Bring your friends and family and come hear all about our new exhibits, watch our staff walk through the parade, and learn about science!

Science Café: The Future of Fuels

2009-07-06T15:41:00.000-07:00

The Future of Fuels
At the Science Café July 7
Sponsored by Pacific Science Center, KCTS and Science on Tap

Wendy Malloy
Pacific Science Center
200 Second Ave. North
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 443-2879
wendy_malloy@pacsci.org

SEATTLE - The future of fuels. We know biodiesel is a popular alternative to gas. But what about used cooking oil and animal fat to help create a truly 'waste to energy' biodiesel fuel?

At our July Science Café Josh Haney, a biochemist for Seattle-based General Biodiesel Inc. (GBI), will introduce us to the Future of Fuels. Join us at T.S. McHugh's on Queen Anne in Seattle at 7:30 p.m. on July 7 as we discuss some of the alternative methods for biodiesel, ethanol, and butanol production happening right here in the Pacific Northwest. Josh will teach us what is currently being done to produce these fuels by recycling our own food waste and how these methods will impact our community.

Unlike the traditional biodiesel producer model of using new or "virgin" raw material (a.k.a. feedstock) such as soy or canola oil, which can be used in the food supply, GBI seeks to truly be a 'waste to energy' company by using waste cooking oil and animal fat (e.g. tallow) as our primary feedstock.

The Science Café is a monthly event that promotes face-to-face dialogue with a scientist about current scientific topics. The café is a casual meeting place that uses plain language and inclusive conversation to create an atmosphere that welcomes scientific discovery for people of all ages and stages in life. This event is FREE to the public and open to ALL ages!

Each month, learn about cutting-edge topics in science and technology from leading researchers and scientists, all while enjoying food and drinks. At the café, speaker scientists give a short talk in their area of interest, followed by a small group discussion. After a short break and drink refill, the group reconvenes, allowing for a question and answer session and general discussion of the topic with the speaker and participants.

The Science Café (formerly known as Science on Tap) is presented in partnership with KCTS 9 Television, ScienceOnTap.org, and Pacific Science Center. We hope you can join us the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at T.S. McHugh's located at 21 Mercer Street, Seattle, WA 98109.

Pacific Science Center inspires a lifelong interest in science, mathematics and technology by engaging diverse communities through interactive and innovative exhibits and programs. Pacific Science Center began as the United States Science Pavilion during the1962 Seattle World's Fair. Millions came to explore the wonders of science during the World's Fair and upon the closing ceremonies, the Science Pavilion was given new life as the private, not-for-profit Pacific Science Center, becoming the first U.S. museum founded as a science and technology center. For more information about Pacific Science Center, please call (206) 443-2001 or visit pacificsciencecenter.org. Pacific Science Center is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and relies on admissions, memberships, and donations to continue our educational mission, programs, and exhibits.

Ocean Watch Reaches Dutch Harbor

2009-06-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

The crew of Ocean Watch and the Around The Americas expedition have reached Dutch Harbor, Alaska after a hair-raising trip across the Gulf of Alaska. Now they prepare to turn the corner and head north to cross through the Northwest Passage. The crew members are not only skilled sailors and scientists, but also excellent writers. Their log entries, sent in via satellite, read like an old fashioned seafaring novel. We invite you to follow this incredible adventure at →AroundTheAmericas.org.

Seagoing Education
The purpose of this voyage is to help raise awareness of the state of the world's oceans. Pacific Science Center is providing teachers and curriculum for Ocean Watch's port visits where the crew will meet the public. NASA's S'COOL program is also part of the adventure. That's Students Cloud Observations On-Line (S'COOL), a program that has inspired children to study clouds on every continent but Antarctica. Read more about the education side of Around The Americas in this great →article from NASA. As our teachers join the trip and begin meeting with the public along the way there will be many stories we'll share with you. If you have any questions, just send them to Feedback@PacSci.org and we'll pass along.

You're Invited to Festival of the Fountains!

2009-06-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

We hope you will join us on Friday, July 24 for Pacific Science Center's annual gala – Festival of the Fountains. One of the best parties of the summer, Festival of the Fountains gives you the opportunity to experience first-hand the interactive programs offered each day at Pacific Science Center while providing meaningful support for the Science Center's effective education programs. After cocktails and dinner under our iconic arches, dance the night away, experience an IMAX film, catch a laser show, or explore exhibits searching for clues to the Science Whiz Quiz challenge! Tickets start at $350 per person. Information and reservations can be made →online. If you prefer, call (206)443-2009 or email festival@pacsci.org.

"The Little Shirleys"

2009-06-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about Pacific Science Center is the staff. We are blessed with a talented, passionate, dedicated group of teachers, scientists, technicians, artists, and more. A recent article about a member of our 'family' helps illustrate the point. →Learn more about one woman's effort to fight cancer and honor the original 'Shirley.'

PacSci-Doku: Year Of Astronomy

2009-06-26T09:35:00.000-07:00

Our latest bi-weekly science word puzzle is all about kites, dolphins, and stars! Can you solve the "Year Of Astronomy" edition of →PacSci-Doku?

Free Guest Passes For Members

2009-06-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

A Pacific Science Center membership offers many great benefits including free guest passes. These guest passes can be used for anyone you would like, so spend an exciting summer with a friend and visit →Animal Grossology, our →Tropical Butterly House or catch an →IMAX movie. Platinum members receive three free guest passes every visit. Titanium members receive five free guest passes every visit! For more information, contact the Membership Office at (206)443-2924.

"Cool!" "Grossly Great!" "Fun For Kids & Adults!"

2009-06-26T09:31:00.000-07:00

That's just a sample of what some of our visitors have been saying about Animal Grossology now open daily at Pacific Science Center. If you enjoyed the original Grossology exhibit all about the human body, then you'll love Animal Grossology. Discover science of the animal world presented in a fun, entertaining way that makes kids giggle...but understand. →Learn More

Planetarium Free For Members

2009-06-22T09:02:00.001-07:00

Pacific Science Center members now receive another great benefit: free planetarium and matinee laser show tickets! All our members receive an unlimited number of passes to Pacific Science Center’s planetarium and matinee laser shows. These passes may also be used by guests as long as a guest pass is redeemed. Members will need to get a ticket at a ticket booth before show time to guarantee a seat. For more information on member benefits, please visit our →Membership site or call the Membership Office at (206)443-2924.

Amphibian Extinction Crisis

2009-06-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

Frog populations around the world have been disappearing at unprecedented rates in recent years. Threats include pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, and more. Come meet a man leading a worldwide effort to save these fascinating creatures. Join Dr. Kerry M. Kriger at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center in Bellevue this Saturday, June 27 and learn how you can join his effort to →Save The Frogs!

Stubbs And Some Special Guests

2009-06-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

Beloved Seattle DJ, and longtime Pacific Science Center supporter, Stubbs brings her →KMPS Radio show to →Animal Grossology Tuesday, June 23 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Stubbs is always fun and this time she's bringing a couple of friends - →The Carter Twins! That's right, the country music superstar duo will visit and perform under the arches. We hope you can stop by!

Transformers With A Twist

2009-06-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

Our next 21+ event combines cocktails, science, and giant battling robots! Join us Thursday, June 25 as Science With A Twist presents Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen: The IMAX Experience! Tickets have been selling fast, so →get yours now!

Robots Six Stories Tall!

2009-06-22T08:57:00.000-07:00

The next in a string of summer blockbusters coming to our Boeing IMAX Theater is Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen: The IMAX Experience opening June 24. We want to remind everyone that the IMAX version of this film is a little bit longer than the standard theatrical release, and with select scenes shot with IMAX cameras, it's a whole lot bigger! And yes, tickets are selling fast, so don't wait. →Get your tickets now!

Around The Americas In Alaska

2009-06-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

Sailing vessel Ocean Watch and its crew have arrived in Alaska and are busy talking with folks in Juneau about the state of the world's oceans as the Around The Americas voyage continues. They posted a beautiful image of orcas this week with many more to come. We invite you to follow the adventure at →AroundTheAmericas.org. As our teachers join the trip and begin meeting with the public along the way there will be many stories we'll share with you. If you have any questions, just send them to Feedback@PacSci.org and we'll pass them along.

Fans Demand More 'Trek'

2009-06-11T12:41:00.000-07:00

It seems Star Trek fans just can't get enough of Star Trek: The IMAX Experience on the biggest screen in town. Once again this weekend we'll squeeze in two more showings at 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 12-13. And we've added 9:30 p.m. showings Monday-Thursday, June 15-18 next week. This most likely will be the final run, so get your →tickets now!

A Little Longer, WAY Bigger!

2009-06-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

The next in a string of summer blockbusters coming to our Boeing IMAX Theater is Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen: The IMAX Experience opening June 24. The IMAX version of this film is a skosh longer than the standard theatrical release, and with select scenes shot with IMAX cameras, it's a whole lot bigger! Tickets are →now on sale. We suggest buying early...and often to see it on the biggest screen in town!

See It With A 'Twist'
For a very special screening of this awesome film, be sure to →get your tickets now for our next 21+ event. Science With A Twist features cocktails, science and giant battling machines! You know it will be an incredible evening.

Exhibits on Parade!

2009-06-11T12:38:00.000-07:00

If you've ever seen an IMAX film at Pacific Science Center, chances are you've seen Phil Cosand. Phil is one of our projectionists and has shown thousands of films over the years. Recently, he purchased a new camera and decided to break it in by snapping a picture of every exhibit now on display and put them all in a YouTube video. Have you seen all of these? By the way, the music on the video comes from another member of our staff, David Haldeman. David is a writer but also a composer and musician. If you visited our Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit or the more recent Lucy's Legacy exhibition then you heard some of his work playing in the gallery. →Take a look and listen then stop by to see them all yourself!

Slough News: GPS Family Workshop

2009-06-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

The next in our series of family workshops at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center in Bellevue is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about the exciting sport of Geocaching...or anyone who just wants some fun! Tromp through the slough using a GPS (which we provide or bring your own) to seek out hidden geocaches. Piece together the clues you find to solve a riddle and learn how a GPS works using hands-on activities. Explore the wonders of the park while learning some great treasure-finding techniques! GPS Treasures is this Saturday, June 13, 11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Donations are always welcomed!

Campers Are Almost Here!
If you visit the Slough this week you'll see our staff working hard to get ready for the arrival of our first campers this month. We still have a few slots open, so if you haven't yet made plans for summer, we urge you to →do so now.