Saturday, July 18, 2009
Aquatic Animals and Care
7/18/2009 10AM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
Discover the science of water and the connection we have with our magnificent great lake, Lake Michigan. Explore this amazing aquatic topic at Shedd Aquarium through an interactive chat. Then follow your guide behind-the-scenes to see the aquarium from the perspective of the animalcare
staff. Youâll learn how we feed the animals and keep the water clean, and see the built-in features that make the beautiful exhibits truly natural habitats. All ages. (1 hour). Capacity 15.
Astronomy Conversations
7/18/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide.
Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.
Beauty and the Beach
7/18/2009 10AM-01PM | Ages: All Ages
Join the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museumâs geologists on an interactive tour to learn about the regionâs largest geographical feature: Lake Michiganâs sandy beach. Learn about local ecology, environmental issues affecting the nationâs third coast, and discover how Chicagoâs landscape has changed over time. Become a citizen scientist as
you take part in the conservation of our lakefront and build a connection with Lake Michigan. All ages. This is an outdoor walking tour (3 hours). Capacity: 25
Beauty in a Bottle: From Creation to Container
7/18/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Ever wonder what it is in your shampoo that leaves your hair feeling shiny and more manageable? Nowâs your chance to find out with a unique behind-the-scenes look at Alberto Culverâ"the name behind many of Americaâs best-known brands of personal care and household products, including VO5, Nexxus, TRESemmé, Mrs. Dash and Static Guard. Youâll get a peek into the laboratories where researchers develop and test some of our favorite products. All ages. This will be a facility walking tour (2 hours). Capacity: 30.
Blast Off to Reading!
7/18/2009 10AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Children Reading Club: Blast Off to Reading!
Join us for our Summer Reading Club. The theme this year is Space Exploration. There are three levels to this program plus our new Teen Reading Club.
Read to Me: For children ages 2 through 7 years who do not read independently. 20 books will be the goal for this level.
Middle Reader Level: For independent readers through grade 5. Children in this level will have 1000 pages as their reading goal. Second graders on this level can still submit titles that have been read to them.
Young Adult Level: For readers entering 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Participants in this club will have 1000 pages as their goal. All young adults participants who finish the program will receive a raffle ticket for a special drawing to be held at the close of the Summer Reading Club.
Children will receive a prize upon reporting to the children's desk when they have completed a book. Upon completion of the program, each child can choose a paperback book for their final prize. Visit the Children's Department for further details.
Read to Me: For children ages 2 through 7 years who do not read independently. 20 books will be the goal for this level.
Middle Reader Level: For independent readers through grade 5. Children in this level will have 1000 pages as their reading goal. Second graders on this level can still submit titles that have been read to them.
Young Adult Level: For readers entering 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Participants in this club will have 1000 pages as their goal. All young adults participants who finish the program will receive a raffle ticket for a special drawing to be held at the close of the Summer Reading Club.
Children will receive a prize upon reporting to the children's desk when they have completed a book. Upon completion of the program, each child can choose a paperback book for their final prize. Visit the Children's Department for further details.
Boats, Nets, Fish, and Lake Michigan Research
7/18/2009 09AM-11PM | Ages: 9 and up
Join Lake Michigan Biological Station researchers and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant for a shore-based morning exploring Lake Michiganâs aquatic life. Check out their research vessels, assist in water sampling, and explore the species that turn up in their nets. (Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, and wear sunscreen). Ages 7 and up. This is an outdoor walking tour (2 hours). Capacity: 25.
Dinosaur Hunt for Grades K-2
7/18/2009 11AM-01PM | Ages: 5 and up
Have a close encounter with a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Explore, touch and learn with real fossils from the Field Museum. Create your own prehistoric landscape. Learn about the new finds in dinosaurs big and small.
For students in Grades K-2
Instructor: Mary Sue Offutt, Field Museum Volunteer
For students in Grades K-2
Instructor: Mary Sue Offutt, Field Museum Volunteer
DNA Discovery Center
7/18/2009 10AM-03PM | Ages: 13 and up
Get a behind-the-scenes look at The Field Museumâs DNA Discovery Center, a state-ofthe-art DNA research facility where dozens of scientists analyze the DNA of thousands of
different speciesâ"from the fungi of Antarctica to the birds of the Amazon. Comparing these genetic codes allows scientists to map out the relationships among all species on Earth and add to the giant Tree of Life. Youâll meet with real scientists, gain insight into current research on
DNA, learn about DNA sequencing, and even get a chance to extract DNA! This is a walking tour and workshop. Ages 12 and up. (1-1/2 hours). Capacity 15.
Downtown Canyons Canoe Trip
7/18/2009 09AM-03PM | Ages: Adults
Come canoe the canyons on our ultimate urban canoe adventure! Experience the Chicago Riverâs rich history and see the modern marvels of our skyline from water level. Witness the river renaissance along the Chicago Riverâs main stem now bustling with river-edge businesses and cultural attractions.
Dr. Shawn's Science Adventure Camp
7/18/2009 09AM-03PM | Ages: 5 and up
Dr. Shawn's Science Adventure Camps at SciTech Hands On Museum in Aurora IL are sure to excite any child age 6-14 with weeks of hands on, explosively fun, engaging science summer camps. Before and After camp care is available.
Register today at www.scitechmuseum.org
Finding Walden: Photographs of the Chicago Parks System
7/18-9/27/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bill Guyâs images capture the beauty and diversity of Chicagoâs various neighborhood parks. Finding Walden is the Nature Museumâs contribution to the Burnham Plan Centennial Celebration, a city-wide program that pays homage to Daniel Burnham and the bold plans and big dreams that shaped metropolitan Chicago for the past century.
From Sidewalks to Skyscrapers: The Latest in Building Technology
7/18/2009 11AM-01PM | Ages: 13 and up
Discover the secrets behind designing, building and testing the materials used in the worldâs tallest structures. Architects and civil engineers rely on numerous materials to construct streets, bridges, and high-rise buildings. But, before the building begins, they count on a multidisciplinary team of engineers, architects, and scientists to develop the materials, quality test them, and determine the best utilization. Learn about high-rise
building design from an expert Portland Cement Association structural engineer who has worked on such projects as the Burj Dubai Tower: the worldâs tallest structure, the Trump Tower Chicago, and the renowned Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao,
Spain. He will discuss how structural materials are selected, sustainability (green buildings) and designing buildings to withstand wind and earthquakes. This interactive program incorporates live demonstrations, including breaking concrete beams. Then youâll tour CTLGroupâs laboratories, internationally recognized for their work in testing, research, and development of construction materials. Ages 12 and up. This will be a
presentation and a facility walking tour (2 hours). Capacity 50.
Fungi Foray
7/18/2009 09AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Want to get more fungi out of life? Find out how on a scenic mushroom hunt with Chicago Botanic Gardenâs Soil Ecologist, Dr. Louise Egerton-Warburton, a mycologist specializing in the research and study of mushrooms. Through
her research, she has learned that mushrooms are the ecological âcanaries in the coal mineâ and are important indicators of an ecosystemâs health. Youâll learn the basics of fungal ecology and collect specimens in the beautiful woods of the Garden. Then move to the plant science lab and use microscopes to examine the fungi more
closely and evaluate your findings. Ages 12 and up. This is an outdoor walking tour and workshop (3 hours). Capacity: 12.
Geocaching: Busse Woods
7/18/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Experience treasure hunting for todayâs tech-savvy explorers. Geocaching is an adventure game for Global Positioning System (GPS) users to cache and find locations with actual hidden items. Using a GPS device, youâll explore the outdoor environment while learning about
geographic coordinates and satellite technology. Geocaching experts will be on hand to help guide you as well as provide a history of geocaching and the many everyday uses of GPS technology. All ages. This is an outdoor walking tour (2.5 hours). Capacity: 40.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition
7/18/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Harry Potter fans will have a chance to get a first-hand look inside the famous wizardâs magical world through Harry Potter: The Exhibition, which will make its world premiere at the Museum of Science and Industry on April 30, 2009 and run through Sept. 27, 2009.
In the 10,000-square-foot exhibition, guests have the opportunity to see the craftsmanship of more than 200 authentic costumes and props from the Harry Potter⢠films displayed in settings inspired by the Hogwarts⢠film setsâ"including the Gryffindor common room and Hagrid's hut.
This exhibit is not included in Museum general admission and requires an additional timed-entry ticket. Extended exhibit hours, until 9 p.m. every night, are offered.
TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s09)
Imaging the Future
7/18/2009 12PM-01PM | Ages: 13 and up
Visit the Electronic Visualization Laboratory at the University of Illinois at Chicago which combines art, networking technologies, and computer science for interactive modeling, imaging capabilities, and the creation of virtual realities. Such technologies allow people to experience something as small as an atom or as large as the cosmosâ"all from varying perspectivesâ"to
solve critical questions about everything from our health to our universe. Ages 12 and up. This will be a facility walking tour. (1-1/2 hours). Capacity: 25.
Indian Boundary Prairies Tour
7/18/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Join scientists at The Nature Conservancyâs Indian Boundary Prairies to explore one of the Chicago areaâs highest quality natural areas. See unusual plants, animals, and insects as you hike landscape that has remained intact despite nearby urban development, and dig in with volunteers to help the restoration. All ages. This is an outdoor walking tour and activity (2 hours). Capacity: 24.
Life's A Lab Challenge Week 4: Stay Afloat
7/18-7/24/2009 02PM-11PM | Ages: All Ages
Take part in the Science Chicago Weekly Summer Challenges. Challenge yourself to discover your inner scientist and explore how Life's a Lab!
Stay connected to Science Chicago online this summer and let's show Chicago and the world how Life's a Lab! Check frequently online to see what the Science Crew and others come up with!
From Monday July 13th, take the Stay Afloat Challenge at Science Chicago blog. You will have until Sunday July 11th at 6:00PM to send your answers via video, email, blog, and/or photos.
If you win, you'll get a shout-out on the Science Chicago website and a special prize.
Stay connected to Science Chicago online this summer and let's show Chicago and the world how Life's a Lab! Check frequently online to see what the Science Crew and others come up with!
Lincoln Park Zoo Conservation Camp
7/18/2009 09AM-03PM | Ages: 9 and up
The Lincoln Park Zoo Conservation Camp is now open for registration. This yearâs camp is themed Naturally, Urban! and gives campers exciting opportunities to meet small animals up close, get an inside glimpse at the zoo world and the fascinating wonders of wildlife, create arts and crafts, and play games.
Camps are divided into two distinct week-long sessions. One week will focus on local animals, the ecology in our own backyard and nature stewards here in Chicago. The second week focuses on global issues impacting wildlife and how we fit into a worldwide community. Through both sessions, campers will learn how they can make an ecological difference at home, in their community, and around the world.
Conservation Camp can be attended as a one-week, or full two-week experience. Offered June 15-Aug 14, 2009. (varies by weekly selection).Full day programs available for 3rd â" 8th grade, M-F, 9 a.m. â" 3 p.m.
Meteorological Marvels
7/18/2009 10AM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
If youâve ever wondered how meteorologists âpredictâ the weather, youâll be blown away by this inside view of the Chicago Weather Forecast Office. Find out how a Doppler radar works. See how meteorologists monitor weather, issue a
variety of forecasts, including severe weather warnings, and disseminate this potentially lifesaving information. All ages. This is a walking tour (1 hour). Capacity: 20.
One Small Step: Apollo 11 40th Anniversary
7/18/2009 09AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
The Adler Planetarium is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Apollo 11, the first mission to land on the Moon, during One Small Step: Apollo 11 40th Anniversary.
Participate in daily moon-themed activities (1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.), enter a free drawing for a chance to win prizes and enjoy lunar lunch specials in Galileo's Café during the entire month of July.
In addition to daily activities, check out the new Moon Wall in the Shoot for the Moon exhibition. Located in the Mission: Moon gallery, the Moon Wall lets you interact with detailed images of the Moon taken by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, a current mission orbiting and photographing the lunar surface.
On July 20, the anniversary of the first Moon walk, the Adler will celebrate with a lunar lander cake at 3:17 p.m., commemorating the time Apollo 11 touched down on the Moon, and a special nighttime observing event.
Paradise Lost? Climate Change in the North Woods
7/18-10/3/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
A group of artists, scientists and educators recently came together in Wisconsin to consider ways that art could increase public understanding about climate change. The result is a thought-provoking environmental art exhibition, featuring everything from paintings, quilts, puzzles and music, which explores the roots of climate change, encouraging everyone to take action to preserve the environment. Each piece of artwork on display reflects a unique perspective on the effects of climate change in Wisconsinâs North Woods.
Plants, Power, Health
7/18/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
Learn about natureâs integral role in fighting cancer, heart disease, and other ailments with a special
expert-led tour of the Dorothy Bradley Atkins Medicinal Plant Garden at the University of Illinois at Chicago UIC). The garden contains more than 150 species of medicinal plants, many of which are mainstay drug-producing plants whose products are currently in use in clinical practice around the world. Afterwards, youâll visit a state of the art biocontainment lab to learn how scientists extract compounds from plants and develop life saving cures. All ages. This is a walking tour (1 hour). Capacity: 25
SALES ENDED: Northrop Grumman: Readying the Warfighter for the Fight
7/18/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up
Visit the Northrop Grumman Corporation facility and learn how science and technology play an important role in our military applications. See how infrared and laser technologies are used during war. Observe first hand demonstrations from our lead engineers on our manufacturing floor and view the systems that protect our troops. U.S.
Citizens only. Ages 12 and up. This is a walking tour (2 hours). Capacity: 60.
Ticket Sales Close July 9, 2009.
Ticket Sales Close July 9, 2009.
Smart Home: Green + Wired
7/18/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
The âGreenest Home in Chicagoâ is back at the Museum of Science and Industry, redesigned and updated for 2009. The home - built by Michelle Kaufmann Designs and built by All-American Homes -- showcases the ways you can make eco-friendly living a part of your life, and highlights what the future may bring for consumers.
Smart Home offers guided tours of the 2,500 square-foot home and grounds. Discover the new interior, reinterpreted with the help of Chicago Home + Garden magazine and featuring bold colors, fresh green stories, and new products and furniture. New and unique home technologies are also on display, courtesy of WIRED magazine. Explore the updated landscaping, which offers techniques for urban gardening such as vertical gardens and EarthBox planting.
SOLD OUT: The World of BioRobotics
7/18/2009 09AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up
The six million dollar man, Robocop, and Iron Man are all Hollywood fantasy⦠but could they soon be real? At the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, scientists and doctors are working side-by-side to develop new therapies and technology that will help people overcome their disabilities. Come explore the world of biorobotics, accessibility devices, and technology in rehabilitation
therapies. Ages 12 and up. This is a walking tour and workshop (3 hours). Capacity: 30.
Summer Photography: A Closer Look at the Lurie Garden
7/18/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Join the talented instructors from the Chicago Photography Center for a hands-on workshop and photo shoot in the garden. All levels of experience are welcome.
This workshop has limited space and requires advance registration and a $20 registration fee.
Call 312-742-5519 or email bonnie.tawse@cityofchicago.org to register for each workshop.
Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass
7/18/2009 10AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
In celebration of the 400th anniversary of the telescope, the Adler Planetarium will open a new exhibition "Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass" on May 22. The most comprehensive exhibition of its kind to date, "Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass" presents the technology used to gather information about our Universe. From the earliest telescopes used by Galileo 400 years ago to the Hubble Space Telescope and into the future with leading-edge technologies, see how these amazing instruments change our concepts of the Universe and our place in it. Featuring some of the worldâs most important telescopes and one-of-a-kind hands-on interactives, the exhibition will explore the extraordinary beauty and technology of these amazing instruments and the objects they discover. As science changes everyday and our Universe continues to evolve, telescopes continue to provide new views that improve our understanding of the marvelous cosmos in which we live.
The Low Down on Sound
7/18/2009 10AM-03PM | Ages: 13 and up
From legendary microphones used by the most influential artists of all time to innovative audio electronics, Shure Incorporated is a global leader in audio equipment. From testing rooms to stateof-the-art recording studios, youâll have an exclusive view of what goes into creating the sounds you know and love. Get your own back-stage pass and
discover the science and engineering behind the development of sound technology. Ages 13 and up. This is a walking tour (2 hours). Capacity: 30.
Water
7/18/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
Discover the importance of Earthâs most vital and fleeting resource. Examine how living things adapt to extremes of wet and dry environments, and learn how human behavior alters precious aquatic ecosystems. Become inspired by conservation efforts from around the world and discover what you and your family can do to protect and conserve our planetâs water.
