HMNS News

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OPENS MAY 24th

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General Information

4 - 7Hall of Ancient Egypt

8 - 9Fabergé: A Brilliant Vision

10Penguins of the Antarctic

11Burke Baker Planetarium

12 - 13Wortham Giant Screen Theatre

14 - 15HMNS at Sugar Land

16 - 17For Teachers

18 - 19Just For Kids

20Cockrell Butterfly Center

George Observatory

21 Adult EducationMuseum Store

22 - 23Events Calendar

Get coNNected to HMNS

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2013 HMNS GALASlither to the Sound:A Prehistoric Party

HMNS thanks Gala co-chairs Lucinda and Javier Loya and Josiane and Conrad Goerl, along with auction co-chairs Carmen and Kiki Dikmen and Christie and Billy McCartney for their hard work on the 2013 Museum Gala held on March 2. This year’s event, Slither to the Sound: A Prehistoric Party, raised more than a million dollars to provide essential financial support for the Museum’s exhibitions, educational programs and operations.

2013 HMNS Gala

Auction Co-Chairmen, Billy and Christie McCartney and Carmen and Kiki Dikmen

Gala Co-Chairmen, Lucinda and Javier Loya (not pictured Gala Co-Chairmen, Josiane and Conrad Goerl)

MaIN caMpuS

(713) 639-4629www.hmns.org5555 Hermann Park DriveHouston, Texas 77030

HouRS oF opeRatIoNMonday through Sunday:9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Memorial Day Weekend:May 25-27: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.Summer Hours begin June 7:Monday through Sunday:9 a.m. to 6 p.m

SpecIaL tIcKet VeNueSWortham Giant Screen TheatreCockrell Butterfly CenterBurke Baker PlanetariumGyroXtremeBroncoSaurusSpecial Exhibitions:- Fabergé: A Brilliant Vision (members free)

paRKINGMember $5, nonmember $10, all others $20

adVaNce puRcHaSeS(713) 639-4629Monday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Online at www.store.hmns.orgHandling fee for phone orders only.

MeMBeR tIcKetSNumber of discounted tickets by membership level: Individual, Student & Senior, 1; Dual, 2; Family level & above, 2 adults & 4 children.

MeMBeRSHIp QueStIoNS(713) 639-4616, TTY (713) [email protected]

FIeLd tRIpSFor all venues: (713) 639-4659, www.hmns.org/fieldtrip

BIRtHdaY paRtIeS(713) 639-4646, www.hmns.org/birthdaysParty Smarty at Main Campusand Sugar Land; (281) 242-3055Challenger Birthday Mission at theGeorge Observatory.

BuILdING ReNtaLSpecIaL eVeNtS(713) 639-4749, www.rentthemuseum.org

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(281) 313-2277www.hmns.org/sugarland13016 University BoulevardSugar Land, Texas 77479

HouRS oF opeRatIoNThursdays - Fridays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Sundays: noon to 5 p.m.Summer Hours begin May 27:Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.

SpecIaL tIcKet VeNueSDig PitSpecial Exhibition:- The Zula Patrol: Mission Weather

GeoRGe oBSeRVatoRY

(281) 242-3055, www.hmns.org/observatory Located in Brazos Bend State Park.Park entrance fee: $7 per person; freefor ages 12 & under. Private groups canschedule tours, Challenger missions andastronomy classes.

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Broncosaurus Tickets $5

The first time a person lays eyes on the magnificent remains of a Tyrannosaurus rex, everyone’s reaction is pretty much the same: “I wonder what it would have been like to ride that thing?” Now, thanks to the Museum’s new buckin’ Broncosaurus ride, kids can find out! This rip-roaring paleo rodeo can be found in the Grand Entry Hall, where you can take the ride of a lifetime when you saddle up atop this terrifyingly realistic animatronic prehistoric bronc.

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OPENS TO MEMBERS ONLY ON MAY 24th, PUBLIC ON MAY 31st

Spanning an area of over 10,000 square feet, the new permanent Hall of Ancient Egypt will cover a wide range of topics related to ancient Egyptian culture, illustrated with objects from the HMNS permanent collection, along with loans from major Egyptian collections worldwide.

The exhibition will open with the pivotal role played by the Nile River. The Nile’s annual floods, which left behind an accumulation of fertile silt, provided a stable and productive environment in the middle of the desert, and made domestication of plants and animals possible. A 5-foot-long model of an ancient boat will illustrate how the Nile played an important role in transporting goods and people within the country.

Beautifully crafted, handmade stone knives will chronicle a slow transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture that began 7,000 years ago. The river also sustained a wide variety of wildlife—animals domesticated, hunted and feared by the Egyptians, who adopted characteristics from them to represent their gods.

The wading bird called ibis became the emblem of Thoth, god of writing

and learning; the scavenging jackal was identified with Anubis, god of mummification; and the fat hippopotamus goddess Taweret protected women in childbirth. A display of animal skulls alongside images of these ancient Egyptian animal-inspired gods helps make the connection.

The second section of the exhibition covers cultural aspects—from the simple tasks of daily life, household religion, crafts such as glass-making and jewelry-making, and writing, to the lofty trappings of kingship. Ancient Egyptians took on huge public works, ranging from the world-famous pyramids to temple complexes that continue to inspire awe. A well-maintained military repelled enemies and occasionally pushed Egypt’s boundaries well beyond its natural borders. Artifacts in this section include weapons, pottery and jewelry.

Religion forms the third major theme. The pharaoh was both a ruler and a “god on earth.” A pantheon of gods had dedicated places of worship throughout the country. The priests who maintained these places of worship were powerful players in the political arena as well. The exhibition will feature statues of

gods and their worshippers, surrounded by temple reliefs to set the scene.

Burial and mummification, the fourth theme featured in the new hall, are frequently associated with ancient Egypt. Mention the word “Egypt,” and, for many people, the first things that come to mind are mummies. The exhibit will include three mummies, as well as a dozen carved and painted wooden coffins. Together, they cover an extensive span of time, from the Old Kingdom (2500 BC) to the Roman era (200 AD).

The final section of the Hall of Ancient Egypt is devoted to the exploration of this ancient civilization, an endeavor that has lasted more than two centuries. The discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb in 1922 and the deciphering of ancient Egyptian through the Rosetta Stone are examples of the outside world’s enduring interest in all things Egyptian. Archaeological and historical research continues, new discoveries are made, and new technologies applied. It is unlikely that the last chapter in our understanding of this intriguing and unique civilization has been written. In the meantime, come check out for yourself what ancient Egypt was all about.

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Members are the first to see the new HMNS Hall of Ancient Egypt

Friday, May 24 to Thursday, May 30, members will enjoy exclusive access to our new Hall of Ancient Egypt—before it opens to the public on May 31.

MEMBERS’ ONLY DAILY PREVIEWS FREE FOR MEMBERS!

Friday, May 24 - Thursday, May 30Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MEMBERS’ ONLY EVENTSFREE FOR MEMBERS!

Friday, May 24, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.Saturday, May 25, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.Sunday, May 26, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.Children’s crafts, activities, cash bar and light refreshments

Tickets to the evening Members’ Only Events require a reservation. Please call (713) 639-4629 to reserve your tickets. Reserve early—these events will sell out! Daytime previews do not require a ticket reservation.

WORLD TREKKERS Friday, May 3, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.Tickets $9, Members $7

Journey to the sands of Egypt for the second in our new series of cultural festivals that feature crafts, native cuisine and entertainment inspired by

EGYPT EVENTSour new Hall of Ancient Egypt. Meet representatives from the Egyptian Consulate, enjoy performances by belly dancers and be transformed by face-painters. Bring your passport from our last event or purchase one at the Museum to earn travel stamps and stickers for each completed craft.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURESTickets $18, Members $12

“Ancient Egypt and the Modern World”Thursday, May 23, 6:30 p.m.Tom Hardwick, HMNS Consulting Curator of Egyptology

Egyptologist Tom Hardwick will consider over 2,000 years of Western engagement with Egypt—from the Roman Empire to the present day. What have different cultures seen in and taken from Pharaonic Egypt? How and why has ancient Egypt’s influence remained so pervasive? These questions get to the bottom of the reasons behind the creation of the HMNS Hall of Ancient Egypt.

Tom Hardwick studied Egyptology at the University of Oxford, and has worked in museums in Europe, the United States and Egypt. He has a particular interest in Egyptian sculpture,

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and has also carried out research into the history of Egyptology—the collecting, study and forgery of Egyptian works of art.

“Ancient Egypt and its Contemporaries”Tuesday, June 4, 6:30 p.m.Dirk Van Tuerenhout, Ph.D., HMNS Curator of Anthropology

Explore the achievements that made Egypt so remarkable, and pause at the periods of adversity when natural and manmade forces plunged the country into chaos. While the desert provided ancient Egypt with a defensive buffer, the country did not always choose to live in ‘splendid isolation.’ Military actions abroad, as well as alliances with neighboring empires were important parts of Egyptian history. Well-known episodes of Egyptian history will be interspersed with lesser-known aspects of Egypt’s past.

RICE CONTINUING STUDIES COURSES CO-SPONSORED BY HMNS

“Egyptology: Unraveling the Story”Accompanying the new exhibition hall, this course features sessions by world-renown Egyptologists Peter Lacovara and Bob Brier, as well as sessions by local favorites Dirk Van Tuerenhout, Matthias Henze, Sara Costello and Merrianne Timko. Registration and more information at gscs.rice.edu or (713) 348-4803. HMNS Members receive a discount for this course.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURSTuesdays, May 28 and June 11, 6 p.m.Tickets $30, Members $20

BURKE BAKER PLANETARIUM

Stars of the Pharaohs

Travel to ancient Egypt 5,000 years ago to see how astronomers made the first solar calendar, aligned temples and pyramids, and told time by the stars. You will discover the connection ancient Egyptians felt with the heavens and explore the most spectacular temples and tombs of the ancient world, projected all around you in their original splendor in Stars of the Pharaohs.

You will visit Luxor, Denderah, Giza, Abu Simbel and the tomb of Tutankhamen while you explore the stars that Tutankhamen hunted under, that Nefertiti sang under, that the army of Ramses marched under. Actor John Rhys-Davies narrates Stars of the Pharaohs.

MOVIE NIGHTS

The Wortham Giant Screen Theatre will be home to Giant Screen Movie Nights on Thursday evenings. Think B-movies, bad science, cult classics and everything truly epic. These fantastic films are decidedly out of the mainstream—not what you’ll find at the megaplex or average museum film festival.

Join us on June 13 for our first film, the classic Cleopatra (1963) staring Liz Taylor and Richard Burton in honor of our new Hall of Ancient Egypt. The audience is encouraged to dress to impress in their most elegant Egyptian ensembles.

The evening includes a costume contest during intermission and trivia before the show exploring fact versus archaeology with artistic license. Visit www.hmns.org/movies for more information.

Cleopatra Thursday, June 13, 7 p.m.

Raiders of the Lost Ark Thursday, June 27, 7 p.m.

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Revolution, however, ended the House of Fabergé in 1917. Peter Carl Fabergé died in exile a few years later at the age of 74.

The Fabergé legacy lives on today at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, where visitors can admire a new exhibition of his work. Objects on display include a piece inspired by Fabergé’s time in Dresden, an array of intricate snuffboxes and cigarette cases showcasing his enameling expertise, and one of the rare surviving Imperial Easter Eggs.

Fabergé: A Brilliant Vision is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science with the McFerrin Collection. This special exhibition is free for HMNS members.

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR

Fabergé: A Brilliant Vision Wednesday, May 15, 6 p.m.Tickets $30, Members $20

EVENING CLASS

Fabergé Artist DemonstrationTuesday, June 25, 6 p.m.Tickets $25, Members $17

Fabergé craftsmen innovated and perfected numerous gemstone-cutting and metalsmithing techniques. This evening several of these techniques—cabochon and stone faceting, stone carving, enameling, guilloche, chasing, repoussé—will be demonstrated by artists of the Houston Museum of Natural Science Volunteer Guild known as the Rock Stars.

and necklaces similar to those of other companies. Carl developed an unparalleled skill in the art of enameling and mastered the use of precious and hard stones. He soon clearly distanced the Fabergé workshops from those of his competitors.

At its height, the House of Fabergé employed over 500 workers, making it one of the largest jewelry firms in the world in the early 20th century. Customers could purchase the highly sought Fabergé pieces at five locations, including a store in London, or by mail order. The House of Fabergé was known for items ranging from simple jewelry to the famous 52 Imperial Easter Eggs.

The House of Fabergé continued to thrive until World War I. Many of the Fabergé workers were drafted into the military, never to return. To help the war effort, the House of Fabergé made hand grenades and artillery shells for the Imperial Army. The Russian

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The Fabergé name is known the world over as a mark of excellence in luxury goods. In 1842, Gustav Fabrier opened a jewelry shop that catered to a French clientele. In order to make his name more customer-friendly, and to recognize his Huguenot family roots, Gustav changed the name to Fabergé, savvily including the now famous accent over the “e.”

The name Fabergé would gain global renown under his son, Peter Carl Fabergé (Carl). At an early age, Carl learned the jewelry trade and traveled throughout Europe on a “Grand Tour,” studying the art of goldsmithing in various places, including a workshop in Florence founded by the Medici family, and ateliers in Paris and Dresden, where he would find inspiration for future pieces.

In 1882 Carl took the helm of his father’s business. The firm had already existed for 30 years creating brooches

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On her first expedition to Antarctica, J.J. was introduced to four species of penguin: Adélie, gentoo, macaroni and chinstrap, all of which inhabit the Antarctic Peninsula. The next year J.J. made a rare crossing of the Weddell Sea aboard a Russian icebreaker to photograph the Emperor penguin rookeries.

DAY EXCURSION

Penguin EncounterSaturday, June 8, 2 and 3 p.m.Tickets $68, Members $60

Meet the various species of penguins at Moody Gardens in Galveston as you go behind-the-scenes with a staff biologist to learn how they care for the penguins in their chilly indoor environment. You will learn about penguin biology, conservation, training and enrichment. Participants will meet in Galveston at Moody Gardens. Ticket includes admission to the Aquarium Pyramid®.

Except for the sounds of the rookeries, the expansion and contraction of the ice, and the howl of the wind, Antarctica is very much like the soundless photographs presented in this exhibition. Traveling along the ice shelves from Atka Bay to Halley Station, painter, naturalist and photographer J.J. L’Heureaux turns her camera to the penguins of Antarctica to document their adaptations to the cold and wind of the continent.

Penguins of the Antarctic:A Photographic Expedition

On Exhibition May 4 to October 27, 2013

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© Ocean explOratiOn trust/sea research FOunda-tiOn

Burke Baker Planetarium

al so showing

see page 7 for more info

ExPLOrATiON NOWSMOpens June 2013

Most of the Earth’s surface is covered by water and is unexplored. This summer, the Burke Baker Planetarium makes the ocean floor as real and exciting as the stars overhead. Join your personal planetarium tour guide as you explore the ocean and talk LIVE with scientists on the Exploration Vessel Nautilus, operating a remote vehicle on the ocean floor.

Through telepresence technology, you are there on the deck of the E/V Nautilus or at the controls of an ROV, making discoveries in real time. During the program, the planetarium audience has a live conversation with the ocean research team. Our Museum is one of only 5 venues that have been invited to participate in this program, bringing the sea floor to you.

Exploration NowSM will be offered every afternoon in the Burke Baker Planetarium, seven days a week from mid June through mid November. All of the classes in the Teen Science Academy (page 19) will also participate in the program. Exploration NowSM is generously supported by Lisa Young and Matt Assiff, the Virginia and Ernest Cockrell Jr. Opportunity Fund and Chevron.

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© Ocean Exploration Trust/Sea Research Foundation

© Ocean Exploration Trust/Sea Research Foundation

wortham giant screen theatreFilms and showtimes may change. please visit www.hmns.org for current schedule and more information about each film.

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Film Guide Icon descriptions available at www.hmns.org. Proceeds from the sale of all Wortham Giant Screen film tickets help further the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s nonprofit mission. Your support counts!

Rocky Mountain Express propels audiences on a steam train journey through the Canadian Rockies as they experience the epic adventure of building the young Canadian Dominion’s first transcontinental railway. The film weaves together spectacular IMAX® aerial cinematography, breathtaking western vistas, archival photographs and maps, and the potent energy and rhythms of a working steam locomotive to immerse audiences in an era of ingenuity and struggle transpiring amidst a region of stunning natural beauty.

Jump on the restored Empress locomotive on a journey through the Canadian Rockies and discover the heroic human drama and epic engineering involved in shaping a nearly impossible transcontinental railway link.

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wortham giant screen theatreFilms and showtimes may change. please visit www.hmns.org for current schedule and more information about each film.

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Film Guide Icon descriptions available at www.hmns.org. Proceeds from the sale of all Wortham Giant Screen film tickets help further the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s nonprofit mission. Your support counts!

Titans of the Ice Age 3D transports viewers to the beautiful and other-worldy frozen landscapes of North America, Europe and Asia, 10,000 years before modern civilization. In this exciting 3D adventure, discover an icy world on the brink of extinction, where humans share the frozen tundra with majestic beasts. Encounter some of Earth’s most awe-inspiring mammals, from saber-toothed cats and dire wolves, to giant sloths and the iconic mammoths that lived 10,000 years before modern civilization. Explore the life and behavior of Lyuba, a 40,000-year-old female woolly mammoth calf recently exposed by the melting Siberian permafrost. Meet our ancient ancestors, who were developing art, language, and hunting skills as they sought to survive in the harsh world around them. Titans of the Ice Age 3D is an unforgettable journey back in time that you won’t want to miss.

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tHe ZuLa patRoL: MISSIoN weatHeRFebruary 8 - May 27 Tickets $15, Children $12, Members $3

It’s time to tune in our local meteorologist to check the weather…but wait, that’s no ordinary weather man! It looks like an intergalactic fact-gatherer!

Reports say several of these characters were spotted planet-hopping and have finally landed on Earth in Sugar Land, namely: Captain Bula, Professor Multo, Space Pilot Zeeter, and flying wonders Wigg and Wizzy! These Zula Patrol favorites are here to analyze clouds, temperatures, changing weather conditions and other phenomena that affect our home planet.

Kids and adults will find this interactive exhibit so addictive they won’t want to leave. The Zula Patrol exhibition is locally sponsored by Fluor and KHOU 11.

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eNd oF ScHooL YeaR ceLeBRatIoNThursday, June 6, noon - 4 p.m.Adult $15, Child $12, Member $3

Bring your friends to this end of school bash featuring games, crafts, activities and food! Spend time in the exhibit halls and explore our new Paleo hall. Join us for this fun-filled kickoff to summer break!

XpLoRatIoN SuMMeR caMp

Summer science adventures for kids are coming to Sugar Land. See page 18 for more details.

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June 14 - September 15Tickets $15, Children $12, Members $2

Families will enjoy exploring the physics behind the fun at amusement parks when they experience Amusement Park Science our summer special exhibit. This fascinating interactive exhibition also includes a Family Fun Guide to enhance your experience.

Don't miss seeing how the fast rides work as you explore models including the Bumper Blaster, Wacky Waves, Magnetic Circus, Wild Wheels Road Block, The Rotor, and Bump-O-Rama. Continue your creative play in the K’Nex Activity Area, explore the Amusement Park Model or Create-A-Coaster, and more. Exhibition organized by The Discovery Center Museum, Rockford, Illinois.

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GIFTED AND TALENTED NEW OFFEriNG FOr 2013!

“Differentiation for All Learning Styles”June 10, 12, 14, 17, 19,21, 24, 25, 27 and 28$60 per educator

Participants will enjoy a day in the Museum exploring how to differentiate for learning styles by creating products through menus and graphic organizers, and through collaboration with Museum presenters and local area teachers. Participants earn 6 GT credit hours. To register, e-mail [email protected] or call (713) 639-4708.

EARLY INVESTIGATIONS FIELD TRIPS $5 per person

Led by an HMNS docent and targeted at kids 5 to 8 years old, our Early Investigations program features a 45-minute interactive class and a 45-minute guided tour of the Hall of Paleontology or Insect Zoo. Visit www.hmns.org/ecd for more information. To book call (713) 639-4659 or e-mail [email protected].

LAB CLASSES FOR YOuNG LEANERS $5 per person with a purchase of an exhibit hall ticket

Certified teachers incorporate hands-on classroom activities for students in kindergarten through grade 2 in our exciting lab classes. Topics include fossils and animal adaptations. For more information visit us at www.hmns.org/ecd or to book call (713) 639-4659 or e-mail [email protected].

HMNS OuTREACH PROGRAMS BriNG THE MUSEUM TO YOUr CLASSrOOM!

Chevron Earth Science on Wheels(713) [email protected]

ConocoPhillips Science on Stage(713) [email protected]

Docents to Go(713) [email protected]

El Paso Corporation Wildlife on Wheels(713) [email protected]

Halliburton Discovery Dome(713) [email protected]

Bugs on Wheels(713) [email protected]

WEEKDAY SCIENCE LABS $165 - $200 per lab 25 students per lab

Coming to HMNS in Hermann Park or HMNS at Sugar Land for a field trip? Try one of our Weekday Science Labs! With new topics each month, our labs feature Museum specimens, artifacts and laboratory equipment. Students examine ancient objects, investigate technology, meet live animals and

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conduct scientific experiments in five different, themed labs. Each lab is one hour and includes admission to the Museum’s permanent exhibit halls for lab participants.

Time Labs (Grades 1-8)May: Ancient GamesAre games simple amusements or something more? Discover the games played by the ancients and what they have to tell us.

ConocoPhillipsTechno Science Labs (Grades 1-8)May: Shape Science iiThere’s so much exciting shape science it wouldn’t fit in one class! Come explore more puzzles, tessellations and symmetry.

Wildlife Lab for (Grades 1-8)May: Dangerous DesertsMeet some rugged animals as we explore life in this harsh environment.

TEKS LABS ON DEMAND$200 at HMNS, add a $75 travel fee for school visitUp to 25 students

Need help with a TEKS objective? Each Lab on Demand is tailored to your grade-level needs and can be offered at the Museum while you are here for a field trip, or we can bring the lab to your classroom. Available topics are Chemistry, Force and Motion, Electricity, Light and Optics, Magnets, Storm Science, Ancient Egypt, Cells, Earth Science, and Dissection. Please e-mail [email protected] for more information.

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TuESDAY“Art Smart”Tuesday, May 7, 5 - 8 p.m.$25 per educator

From clever crafts to symmetrical sculptures, learning will abound when you create sensational science-based masterpieces. (Grades K-8) Discover ideas and activities to bring your classroom to life. These programs are for teachers only. Includes dinner and 3 hours CPE credit.

SuMMER ENERGY FIELD TRIP WEEKS FOR TEACHERS$45 per week per educator

Tour diverse sites that play different roles in the energy sector to gain knowledge of various careers in the energy industry, so you can help students connect their abilities and personal interests to promising careers

that are in demand—and see TEKS concepts in action. Educators will learn about relationships between science and energy careers in these 2 weeklong workshops.

July 15-19Sites include Marathon Visionarium, Parish Power Plant, Genesis Rig, Bureau of Economic Geology, Varel Drill Bit Factory, South Texas Nuclear Project, Wiess Energy Hall

August 5-9Sites include Marathon Visionarium, Cedar Bayou Natural Gas Power Plant, Oceanstar Museum in Galveston, Houston Ship Channel, Houston Waterworks, Wiess Energy Hall

This energy workshop is designed for middle and high school science teachers, as well as career awareness program staff. It is offered by the HMNS Energy Conservation Club through the generous support of Marathon Oil Corporation. Participants must meet at HMNS.

Lunch and transportation to/from HMNS and the sites are provided. Participants must be able to walk for moderate periods of time. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. most days. 30 hours of SBEC credit awarded. Limited to 30 participants. For more information contact (713) 639-4737 or [email protected].

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FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FOR ALL EDuCATORS PROGRAMS, VISIT WWW.HMNS.ORG/TEACHERS OR CONTACT [email protected]

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With more sensational science than ever before, a summer of adventure awaits you at HMNS. Our weeklong Xplorations Summer Camps will be held at HMNS Main Campus and HMNS at Sugar Land

HMNS Main Campus:June 10-14June 17-21July 1-3July 8-12July 22-26July 29 - August 2August 12-16August 19-23

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! GREAT CAMPS STILL AVAILABLE!

HMNS at Sugar Land:June 10-14June 24-28July 1-3July 15-19July 22-26August 5-9August 12-16

This year’s action-packed camps will include topics like Junior Paleontologist, Dino Claws and Shark Jaws, Paleontology 101, Lego Robotics, Advanced Lego Robotics, Amazing

Animals, Master Spy Camp, Test for the Best and Puzzler, along with old favorites like Wizard Science Academy, Star Warriors Academy, Extreme Machines and Rome Around the World. Sign up early, as spaces fill fast!

You may register for Xplorations Summer Camps by fax (713) 639-4681 or online at www.hmns.org/summercamp. Please call the Education Department at (713) 639-4625 or (713) 639-4651 with questions. For more information on all of our camp offerings please visit www.hmns.org/summercamp.

attention scouts!

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new teen science acaDeMYThree Advanced Science Labs for Students ages 13 - 17July 8 - 12 and July 29 - Aug 29:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. each day$255 per week, Members $215More information at www.hmns.org/teenscience or (713) 639-4727.

Unsolved Science MysteriesSolve a new mystery every day!

Day 1What sank RMS Titanic? How do we explore the ocean floor?

Day 2 Is our climate changing?What clues are buried in polar ice?

Day 3 Are we alone? Are aliens trying to contact us now?

Day 4 What causes mass extinctions? Is there an asteroid coming our way?

Day 5What can we learn about our past and future from our bones and DNA? Will we someday live on other worlds?

Aramco Science Fair Boot Camp

Jump-start your science fair project using Museum exhibits and collections, investigate science questions, collect data, and draw your own conclusions. Entry fee for the Houston Regional Science and Engineering Fair in 2014 is covered for participants in this class.

• Explore insect behaviors and climate conditions in the Butterfly Center.

• Collect real fossils and identify adaptations in dinosaur skeletons and skulls.

an exclusive adventure through the Museum exhibit halls, with activities and a late night flashlight super safari through our giant new paleontology hall. Also included are special programs in the Burke Baker Planetarium, where scouts will have a guaranteed clear night adventure under the stars. www.hmns.org/scouts

PaRtY sMaRtY

Be a guest at your own child’s party this year! Let HMNS handle everything for you—the decorations, entertainment, craft, party favors, party coordinator and more. Visit www.hmns.org/birthdays for complete party-planning info, including optional add-ons.Party Smarty Packages

Birthday Party Packages include a private party room, tables and chairs for 20 children and 20 adults, a creative craft project, and tour of your chosen venue—Hall of Paleontology, Cockrell Butterfly Center, or a Planetarium film. Themes: Dinosaur, Butterfly/Bugs, Astronomy or EgyptWeekend Parties begin at $350, Members $300 Weekday Parties begin at $250, Members $200

Deluxe Party Packages

Not enough you say? You want more? Upgrade to a Deluxe Birthday Party that includes a live show, more guests, a private room inside the designated venue—Bee Hive in the Cockrell Butterfly Center, Morian Overlook in the Hall of Paleontology, or Arnold Space Hall—and much more. Deluxe Themes: Partysaurus, Winged Wonderland, Galactic GatheringDeluxe packages begin at $800.

• Connect with the Nautilus Exploration Ship and do research on the ocean floor.

• Visit with Museum curators and scientists about your proposed project.

Math Mastery

Using an advanced artificial intelligence program from Reasoning Mind, you will design your own avatar and match wits with a genie to solve math puzzles. The “intelligent” software adapts to you, so each puzzle is a challenge, but one you can solve. By the end of the week, you will discover that math really is fun and the key to solving exciting problems in the real world!

attention scoutsVisit www.hmns.org/scouts for more information on Museum programs for scouts.

Summer Scout Academy

HMNS Summer Scout Academy returns in 2013 with the opportunity for Boy Scouts to earn 28 different Merit Badges. Along with the science and social studies-based badges, scouts can earn the new Robotics and Inventing badges, as well as Citizenship in the Community and American Heritage badges in the new Your Community and Heritage class. Look for information and registration at www.hmns.org/summerscouts. The Summer Scout Academy also has a new opportunity for Girl Scouts – the Careers in Science: Summer Edition. Each day, girls will study a major field of science based on the HMNS exhibit halls. With a daily guest expert, girls will conduct experiments and explore the fields of Archaeology, Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry and Geology. Girls will use the Museum exhibit halls and classroom laboratory to learn what real scientists are discovering now and what they may discover in the future. Information can be found at www.hmns.org/girlscouts.

Scout Adventure SleepoverFriday, May 17

Spend the night at the Museum! Tigers, Cubs and Webelos can all have

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One of the last things you’ll see on a visit to the Cockrell Butterfly Center is the Artists’ Corner in the lower lobby (not too far from the Mosquito Control exhibit). Artists’ Corner showcases insect and plant-themed art and photography from the students of local schools, as well as that of other talented individuals.

Last year, we enjoyed insect-themed art from students at Frank Black Middle School and YES Prep, and also the winning artwork from Air Alliance Houston’s 2012 Earth Day Art Contest. Earlier this spring, Oak Forest Elementary School students brought

in drawings of the plants and insects they encountered in the arboretum on their school grounds. Currently, another impressive show from YES Prep is on display through the summer.

Do you know of any local schools with a good art program that would like a venue for their art? Or perhaps you are—or know of—a plant or “bug”-obsessed photographer? If so, please contact Nancy Greig, Cockrell Butterfly Center director, at [email protected]. We are always interested in new possibilities to fill the calendar. Shows typically have a 2 to 3 month run. We welcome your creative thoughts!

Nature’s art iN the Butterfly CeNter

GeoRGeoBSeRVatoRYMeMBeRS NIGHtFriday, June 28, 8 - 10 p.m.

Reserve early—this event will sell out!Please call (713) 639-4629 for reservations. Free with park entrance fee ($7 adults, free for ages 12 and under).

SatuRdaYS at tHe GeoRGeTelescope Tickets $5, Members $4.50Discovery Dome Tickets $3, Members $2.50

View the night sky through the large Observatory telescopes every Saturday evening until 10 p.m. Gift Shop, exhibits and Discovery Dome open at 3 p.m. Telescope tickets go on sale at 5 p.m. Viewing begins at dusk. The George Observatory is located in Brazos Bend State Park (park entrance

fee: adults $7, kids 12 and under free) Directions are posted at www.hmns.org/observatory. Current Observatory weather conditions can be accessed at www.weatherbug.com, zip code 77461.

FaMILY Space daYSaturday, May 18 Mission Times: 3 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Astronauts of all ages—kids and adults—can fly to the moon with NASA volunteers in the Challenger Learning Center. No danger is involved! Astronauts are assigned jobs aboard the Space Station Observer and work together as they solve problems while having fun. Don’t miss this special opportunity to participate in real astronaut training.

RocKet daY Saturday, June 8, 10 a.m. - noon

Bring your junior rocket enthusiasts out for a day of rocket launches and a mission to the Moon! Kids learn about rockets and how they work, build a water rocket and then launch it. After the launches, we blast into space aboard the S.S. Observer for a simulated spaceflight.

FRIdaY NIGHt GRoupS The George Observatory is available on Friday nights by reservation for groups of 30 to 100 people. Advance reservations required. Summer Friday nights are available. Call (281) 242-3055 for information and reservations.

2012 Overall Winner of the Earth Day Art Contest: Asia B. of Johnston Middle School

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FiLM SCrEENiNG

Chasing IceTuesday, June 18, 6:30 p.m.

Undeniable evidence of our changing planet is captured by environmental photographer James Balog through revolutionary time-lapse cameras deployed by the Extreme Ice Survey capturing a multi-year record of the world’s changing glaciers.

In Chasing Ice, witness the hauntingly beautiful videos that compress years into seconds and capture ancient mountains of ice in motion as they disappear at a breathtaking rate. The vivid images of the majestic ice caps slowly melting away are

set to Academy-Award® nominated soundtrack featuring Scarlett Johansson. Join oceanography and climate change researcher Dr. John B. Anderson of Rice University at HMNS for the premiere screening of the film Chasing Ice in Houston in the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre. This is a one-night-only event.

DiSTiNGUiSHED LECTUrE

“Frozen in TimeThe Story of Ötzi the iceman” Tuesday, May 14, 6:30 p.m.Patrick Hunt, Ph.D.Stanford University

In the coldest case on record, a 5,300-year-old Neolithic man of the Copper Age story is uncovered through forensic technology. Unlike any other human remains this old, remarkably, nearly everything of Ötzi is preserved—from his clothing, tools, gear and weapons to his last meals in his body.

Since his discovery in 1991 in the Similaun Pass of the Otztal Alps at 10,500 feet between Italy and Austria, Ötzi has been subject of extensive ongoing scientific investigations. Hear the latest findings from Dr. Patrick Hunt of Stanford University. This lecture is co-sponsored by Archaeological Institute of America – Houston Society.

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ADULT EDUCATIONSUMMEr MAGiC CLASSES FOr ADULTS

The instructor for this workshop is magician Richard Hatch. Classes are limited to 24 adults, must be 15 or over. No prior experience as a magician is required. All students are expected to adhere to the magicians’ code of secrecy regarding the techniques taught.

“Magic 101: introduction to Sleight-of-Hand Magic”Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. - noon$60 members, $68 nonmembers

Learn how to create extraordinary illusions using ordinary objects to dazzle your friends and family. This hands-on workshop will introduce you to basic sleight-of-hand magic. Illusions with playing cards, coins, currency, rubber bands and even paper clips will be taught. From now on you will always be armed with a trick up your sleeve. “Magic 201: More Sleight-of-Hand Magic”Saturday, June 1, 1 - 3 p.m.$60 members, $68 nonmembers

More magic with ordinary objects, including rope, string, coins, currency and playing cards. While prior completion of Magic 101 is recommended, it is not required and the material covered in the two classes will not overlap.

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In honor of all moms, HMNS is offering 10% off all our Museum Store jewelry from April 27 to May 12—in addition to your HMNS Membership discount. The HMNS Museum Store features jewelry to fit all tastes from glam to natural beauties—and a combination of the two. Consider this gorgeous handmade

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Something Shiny and Sparkly!Ananda Khalsa necklace of rose-cut carnelian and labradorite. Khasla’s beautiful hand-wrought creations are inspired by nature and ancient jewels, reinterpreted for modern tastes. This offer is only available in-store and via phone order, and excludes Collector’s Choice gems.

HMNS MuSeuM Store

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woRLd tReKKeRSFriday, May 3, 6:30 p.m. (page 6)

eXXoNMoBIL teacHeR tueSdaY“Art Smart”Tuesday, May 7, 5 p.m. (page 17)

BeHINd-tHe-SceNeS touRFabergé: A Brilliant VisionWednesday, May 15, 6 p.m. (page 9)

dIStINGuISHed LectuRe“Frozen in TimeThe Story of Ötzi the Iceman”Tuesday, May 14, 6:30 p.m. (page 21)

Scout adVeNtuRe NIGHtFriday, May 17 (page 19)

FaMILY Space daYGeorge ObservatorySaturday, May 18 (page 20)

dIStINGuISHed LectuRe“Ancient Egypt and the Modern World”Thursday, May 23, 6:30 p.m. (page 6)

New HaLL oF aNcIeNt eGYpt opeNSMembers-Only WeekFriday, May 24 to Thursday, May 30 (page 6)

MeMBeRS’ oNLY eVeNtHall of Ancient EgyptFriday, May 24, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.Saturday, May 25, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.Sunday, May 26, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.(page 6)

eXHIBItIoN LaSt daYSuGaR LaNdThe Zula PatrolMonday, May 27(page 14)

BeHINd-tHe-SceNeS touRHall of Ancient Egypt Tuesday, May 28, 6 p.m.(page 7)

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HaNdS oN cLaSSeS“Magic 101,” 10 a.m.“Magic 201,” 1 p.m.Saturday, June 1 (page 21)

dIStINGuISHed LectuRe“Ancient Egypt and its Contemporaries”Tuesday, June 4, 6:30 p.m. (page 7)

SuGaR LaNd – eNd oF ScHooL YeaR ceLeBRatIoNThursday, June 6, noon (page 15)

RocKet daY at tHe GeoRGe oBSeRVatoRYSaturday, June 8, 10 a.m. (page 20)

daY eXcuRSIoNPenguin EncounterSaturday, June 8, 2 p.m. (page 10)

GIFted aNd taLeNted educatoR woRKSHop“Differentiation for all Learning Styles”Monday, June 10 (page 16)

BeHINd-tHe-SceNeS touRHall of Ancient EgyptTuesday, June 11, 6 p.m. (page 7)

MoVIe NIGHtCleopatraThursday, June 13, 7 p.m. (page 7)

eXHIBItIoN opeNINGSuGaR LaNdAmusement Park Science Friday, June 14 (page 15)

FILM ScReeNINGChasing IceTuesday, June 18, 6:30 p.m. (page 21)

aduLt cLaSSFabergé Artist DemonstrationTuesday, June 25, 6 p.m. (page 9)

MoVIe NIGHtRaiders of the Lost ArkThursday, June 27, 7 p.m. (page 7)

MeMBeRS NIGHt at tHe GeoRGe oBSeRVatoRYFriday, June 28, 8 - 10 p.m. (page 20)

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HMNS activities are supported in part by funds provided by the City of Houston.

HMNS News (ISSN 1556-7478) is published bimonthly by the Houston Museum of Natural Science, 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030. Issues are sent every other month as a benefit to all Museum members. HMNS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to preserve and advance the general knowledge of natural science, to enhance in individuals the knowledge of and delight in natural science and related subjects, and to maintain and promote a museum of the first class.

5555 Hermann Park DriveHouston, Texas 77030

HMNS NewS IS Now aVaILaBLe oNLINe at www.HMNS.oRG/MaGaZINe

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PAIDHouston, TexasPermit No. 6371

poStMaSteR:Dated material

enclosed. Please deliver

IMMEDIATELy!

now showing at the burke baker planetarium

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