Category Archives: What’s New

Ask a Scientist: Dr. M.J. Soileau

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Introducing our Scientist in Residence

As an institution, Orlando Science Center is dedicated to increasing science literacy in our community and beyond. We're taking steps to solidify our place as a trusted resource for up-to-date information on popular science topics. From climate science to space exploration, we hope that when a community member has a STEM-related question to ask a scientist, we are the first place they go to find out more.

As part of this endeavor, we are proud to introduce our Scientist in Residence, an initiative that goes hand-in-hand with our Science Matters campaigns. The Scientist in Residence is a STEM professional who is an expert in their field. They're also available to provide unique insight into trending science topics, promote science literacy, and answer questions from the public. 

Meet Dr. M.J. Soileau

It is our pleasure to introduce Dr. M.J. Soileau, our inaugural Scientist in Residence. Dr. Soileau is the perfect person to help us launch this effort. A big personality with a passion for improving the STEM environment, Dr. Soileau has been a trailblazer in both optical research and higher education.

He has been a fervent supporter of Orlando Science Center since the 1980s, when he first joined the Board of Directors. Now an Emeritus Member of the Board, Dr. Soileau served as Chairman during a critical period of the Science Center's history, garnering financial resources and governmental support for our mission.

Dr. Soileau is a Louisiana sharecropper/laborer's son who hoed cotton to pay for college. As you can tell, he learned the value of hard work early. Dr. Soileau remembers his parents as good, hardworking people who raised him to speak bluntly and pursue goals relentlessly. 

"I never was the brightest star in the galaxy - and I'm still not - but I grew up learning how to work," Dr. Soileau said. "I think one of the most important things you learn in science is, if you really push on a problem long enough and hard enough, it gives up."

Dr. Soileau moved to Orlando in January 1987 to be the founding director of the Center for Research in Electro-Optics and Lasers (CREOL) — now CREOL the College of Optics and Photonics — at the University of Central Florida (UCF). He dedicated more than 35 years of his career to UCF, transforming the fledgling research center into one of the major educational and research institutions for optics in the world. Dr. Soileau became Vice President for Research and Commercialization in 2000. He then returned to the CREOL faculty in the Fall of 2016 and retired July 2022. 

"What a wonderful life to spend your life learning stuff," Dr. Soileau said. "And by the way, when you teach, you learn so much more than the students do."

It is this passion for learning and education that we hope will permeate our halls and help support us in our mission to inspire science learning for life. As our Scientist in Residence, Dr. Soileau will be making appearances and offering unique experiences throughout the year. This partnership promises to deliver exceptional educational value to our members, visitors, and the Central Florida community — from special presentations at Science Night Live events to guest workshops with the kids of Neighborhood Science. 

Dr. Soileau Answers Your Questions! 

We have received some fantastic questions from guests, campers, and preschoolers alike for our Scientist in Residence. Check out his answers below and stay tuned for monthly updates! If you're interested in submitting a question of your own, check out the information below. Let's get curious together!

A list of previously answered questions can be found in the Ask a Scientist Question Archive.

Yes! Satellites orbiting the Moon have detected water in deep craters at the Moon's north and south poles. These craters are deep enough that no sunlight reaches these ice deposits. This will likely play an important role as we plan manned stations on the Moon and prepare for trips to Mars.

That is a hard question to answer. The average life span in the USA is 76.3 years. There are 58 countries with longer life spans than the USA. The country with the longest life span is Hong Kong, at 85.5 years. However, with healthy living, which means good diet, good exercise, and access to available vaccines, many people in the USA live past 100 years old. I will be 80 on my next birthday!

Rapid production of heat by energetic chemical reactions cause rapid expansion of air and high pressures, which we call an explosion.

Enjoy a COOL Summer of Science at Orlando Science Center

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With four floors of air-conditioned exhibits, live shows, and more, spend your summer doing science!

DAILY SCHEDULE
Times, tickets, details, and more! 
  • Orlando Science Center will be open 7 days a week from May 29 - August 8 including Memorial Day and the 4th of July
  • Daily hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 
  • Ticket may be purchased online in advance or on-site upon arrival

Brand New Exhibits

Caregivers and children interacting with Dogs! A Science Tail exhibit.

Dogs! A Science Tail presented by Orlando Health

Level 2

From service dogs who help their humans better function in the world around us, to the super sniffers who help researchers and rescue teams save lives, dogs aren’t just our friends and pets, they have paws-itively changed the world as we know it!

With more than a dozen interactive exhibit pieces, visitors can learn first-hand what makes this unique bond between us and our canine companions one of the most successful interspecies partnerships of all time.

A woman and two young girls stroll through an art gallery

Fusion: A STEAM Gallery

Level 3

HERSTORY! on display from May 13 – July 11, 2023 is an introspective of topics through the eyes of fifteen artists celebrating the Creative Spirit of Women in Visual Arts. Exhibition curated by Marilyn Cortes-Lovato and Tre Harris.

Timed Experiences

Audience in a movie theater

Larger-Than-Life Theaters 

The domed giant-screen Dr. Phillips CineDome and high-definition Digital Adventure Theater both offer educational films daily, and all films are included with general admission.
 
Cool Science live show with liquid nitrogen demonstration super cooling Peeps in a beaker.

COOL Science Shows

From to StoryTime to some literally cool liquid nitrogen demonstrations, check the daily schedule to see all of the exciting live science programming!

Feed Your Mind

Take a break and take a bite with Food Heroes! 

Built and designed to complement the new 4Roots Cafe, this exhibit explores the complexities of our food system and how we can make it more sustainable and healthier for everyone.

GET TICKETS

Mark Your Calendars

Don't miss these exciting upcoming events:

  • Learn the skills you need to feel empowered to create! Whether you’re a professional maker or exploring a new hobby, everyone has something exciting to learn during Make Fest June 17 & 18!
  • There’s no age limit on curiosity! Whether you’re looking for a get-together of old friends or a fun date night out, Science Night Live is your chance to let out your inner child and experience everything the Science Center has to offer - without the kids! Join us June 10 & August 26!
  • 3...2...1.... we're launching Astro Fest July 15 & 16! 
    From the moons of Endor to the moons of Jupiter, join us as we explore the science behind our favorite science fiction with hands-on astronomy and engineering challenges, the science of rockets, and more! 
GET TICKETS
Guests enjoying The Hive A Makerspace

NASA Scientist Visits Local Orlando Kids

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NASA Scientist Phillip Hargrove Visits Local Orlando Parramore Kids Zone Students

It IS rocket science! Phillip Hargrove, an aerospace engineer and NASA scientist, paid a visit to local students participating in Orlando Science Center's new Neighborhood Science program during the Parramore Kids Zone at the Grand Avenue Neighborhood Center in Holden Heights. 

This new initiative provides high-quality STEM education for multiple days each week in afterschool programs and community centers within underserved neighborhoods. From virtual reality, to engineering design challenges, 3D printing, and more, students have a unique opportunity to get hands-on with engaging STEM activities and learning opportunities. It is the bridge that connects these issues by offering opportunities focused on increasing confidence and interest in STEM concepts for youth in Central Florida.

With the help of our “neighbors” at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, students got a special opportunity to meet and learn from an out-of-this-world guest speaker – Phillip Hargrove. Hargrove is an aerospace engineer in NASA’s Launch Services Program and worked on the trajectory team for the NASA Mars Perseverance Rover launch.

Leading up to the lesson, students got a lesson in rocket science! They learned about the science of space travel and what kind of rockets and satellites are used to journey through the solar system and beyond. Using these lessons, a little rocket science, and a lot of creativity, the Neighborhood Scientists got the opportunity to design and 3D print their own rockets.

Kids learning about rockets from local NASA scientist

Last but certainly not least, the engineers-in-training got to put their designs to the test with some expert advice from Phillip Hargrove.

“By providing all children with an opportunity for inspiration and education, we begin a pipeline that runs from where they are to exciting careers,” said JoAnn Newman, President & CEO of Orlando Science Center. “Neighborhood Science will expand our impact throughout Central Florida as we create a STEM-centered community that paves the way for access and opportunities for all.”

Orlando Teen Invents Organic Pesticide Made From Beer

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Orlando Teen Invents Non-Toxic, Cost-Effective Organic Pesticide Using Beer  Wins Top Prize at Orlando Science Center’s Dr. Nelson Ying Science Competition  

Orlando teen Atreya Manaswi, a sophomore at Orlando Science High School in Orange County, has won the top prize in the prestigious Dr. Nelson Ying Science Competition at Orlando Science Center. His research project, which used a beer blend to create a non-toxic, non-expensive organic alternative to chemical pesticides, won a scholarship of $5,000, a $1,000 award for his science teacher, and an additional $1,000 for their school.  

Atreya was named winner during an awards ceremony on April 30 after presenting his findings to the judges panel the previous day. For 25 years, Dr. Nelson Ying — local scientist, entrepreneur and philanthropist — has partnered with Orlando Science Center to celebrate outstanding student scientists through his creation and sponsorship of this competition.  

Atreya’s winning project is part of his multi-year research effort to address the decline of the world’s honeybee population, which is responsible for pollinating 80% of the world’s food crops. Since 1947, honeybees have declined worldwide by 50% with two of the biggest causes being pests and chemicals. His organic solution, based on the chemical composition of beer, is just as effective as chemical pesticide, but it’s non-toxic and 80 times cheaper. Globally, it could save $1 billion dollars annually with no risk of contamination.  

To compete in the competition, each entrant must be a Florida high school student pursuing a research project that has the ultimate goal of benefiting humanity. This year, submissions were accepted from throughout the state and finalists included students from Central Florida as well as Fort Lauderdale and Tallahassee. Projects ranged from creating algorithms that identify behaviors that could lead to recidivism in paroled convicts to developing biodegradable bone implants to training honeybees to pollinate endangered plant species. In addition to the grand prize winner, each finalist received cash prizes to continue their research.  

Atreya Manaswi and Judith Bright OSC Dr.Ying Competition Winner Teacher 2023

Meet the Finalists!

Ashna Mathur, Sophomore, Lake Highland Preparatory School, Orlando 

Currently, surgeons use inert metals for bone implants following injury, which ultimately need to be removed because they can’t be absorbed by the body. To prevent these costly and time-consuming surgeries, Ashna developed implants with Magnesium, which is biodegradable. She mixed Magnesium with Scandium, Strontium and bio glass nanoparticles to enhance its mechanical properties and promote bone growth.  

Ashna Mathur

Joshua Martoma, Junior, Pine Crest School, Fort Lauderdale 

The United States has the largest incarceration rate in the world with 68% of people in prison returning to prison. Joshua created a machine learning algorithm to identify the risk factors involved with paroled convicts to predict the likelihood of them returning to prison. The goal of his research is to increase the fairness, accuracy and transparency of existing tools to help prevent recidivism amongst this population.  

Joshua Martoma

Ella Pilacek, Junior, Oviedo High School, Oviedo  

Many species of indigenous plants are endangered in Florida due to habitat fragmentation, which results in plants being separated from native pollinator species. Ella trained honeybees to pollinate endangered plant species through Pavlovian conditioning. She repeatedly fed bees a food solution while also feeding them the scent of the endangered plant. Honeybees would associate the scent with a good food source so they would pollinate endangered plants that they would have ignored otherwise.  

Ella Pilacek

Sruthi Sentil, Senior, James S. Rickards High School, Tallahassee 

The world’s citrus population has been devastated by many invasive species of insects. Sruthi focused on the insect Citrus Psyllid and created a device to imitate its mating call. She was able to use these mating calls to lure this pest away from citrus crops and attract them to traps.  She also determined that this process could be used on other pest insects to positively impact citrus production worldwide.  

Sruthi Sentil

The Dr. Nelson Ying Science Competition has been encouraging tomorrow’s problem solvers and world changers since 1999. Scientist, inventor and entrepreneur Dr. Nelson Ying created this competition in partnership with Orlando Science Center to inspire exemplary science students to use their expertise to address real-world problems. Previous winners of this competition have gone on to continue their research at top universities, compete in national science competitions and ultimately pursue exciting STEM careers, including positions at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.  

The Science of Pancakes

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The science of Flipping Pancakes

Pancakes are a common staple at the breakfast table, whether you’re at home in your PJs or drinking coffee at a diner, and it’s not hard to see why: they’re fluffy, light yet filling, and typically covered in delicious syrup. It’s designed to be comforting cuisine! They might be simple and quick to make, but there’s a lot of chemical science at work that’s easy to miss with your standard sleepy-morning eyes, so we’re going to examine the major steps along the way, from batter consistency to the right color. Let’s dive in to the science of flipping pancakes!

Naturally, the first step when making pancakes is to prepare your batter.

You can create it by either combining dry and wet ingredients like flour and eggs, or by using a pancake mix from your local store, which we’ll be looking at today. Pancake mix will take less time overall than measuring and combining all the other materials since they’re blended already, and contains dehydrated fats like powdered butter, egg powder, and buttermilk. Dehydrating fats, or drying as much moisture out as possible, prevents bacteria, yeast, and mold from growing and ensures the mix stays fresh for long periods. When we add a liquid like water or milk to it, it rehydrates the fats and produces the batter substance we’re looking for.

Before adding the liquid, your bowl contains plenty of dry ingredients and each one has its own role to play. The first ingredient is commonly used in the kitchen: flour. Flour is a powder ground from types of grains. One of these flours, wheat flour, contains two types of proteins that link together and make gluten. 

So what's happening? 

The natural chemical leavening agent we’ll be using is baking soda. This helps pancakes rise up while being fluffy and soft. Baking soda is a base with a high alkaline. When it mixes with an acid or in this case, the buttermilk, it creates bubbles that release a lot of gas.

If you’ve ever combined baking soda and vinegar before then you’ve seen the chemical reaction!

Pancake batter ready for pancakes

Now it’s time to add our liquid to help rehydrate the fats. Box mixes usually call for water, but today we’re going to add milk. Milk will up the fat content of our combination, leading to tender flapjacks with more richness and flavor. Now, you might be wondering what kind of milk to use. 

The liquid helps to activate the baking soda and buttermilk, creating the reaction we just covered. These bubbles will rise as you stir. As this is happening, the CO2 bubbles will be trapped by the gluten in the batter when your pancake solidifies, leading to fluffiness! Avoid mixing the ingredients too much though. This can overwork the gluten formation and leave you with tough pancakes. You’re looking for a mixture that’s still lumpy yet blended.

Now that we’ve added our milk, it’s going to rehydrate it so the fat properties can take effect!

When you mix flour with eggs and liquid, the gluten molecules get more flexible and bind to each other to form networks, or nets. These nets trap the air from the carbon dioxide gas, causing the pancake to lift and have a chewable texture.

You can think of it like a hot air balloon, with the gluten as the balloon and CO2 as the warm air. As the CO2 rises up, it expands out the gluten netting giving it lift.

Pancake Batter Bubbling

Let's get cookin'! 

Now that we have our dry and liquid ingredients together, it’s time to get started! There’s a huge variety of ways to cook these cakes, but for this post we’ll be using a nonstick griddle pan. A nonstick surface is useful so we can flip our cakes without too much adhesion, and a griddle pan evenly distributes heat across the cooking surface so the entire cake is done at the same time. To start, you’ll want to heat the pan on medium heat, but avoid settings higher than this. Too hot would burn our breakfast and too low takes longer to finish! Once the pan is hot enough after a few minutes, take a scoop of batter and pour it in!

Do you see or hear anything when the mix hits the hot pan? You may hear a little bit of a sizzle. This sizzle helps indicate our next step taking place: the Maillard Reaction! This step creates the aroma and golden-brown color on the pancake.

the science of the Maillard Reaction

The Maillard Reaction is a chemical reaction between amino acids in the proteins and the carbon and oxygen atoms from sugars. They all bond together on the molecular level and result in a rich palette of distinct and varied flavors. Basically, the proteins and sugars in the mix transform into new flavors, aromas, and colors from the intense heat of the pan. This reaction is how we get coffee roasts, the crust on a steak, or the color and smell of baked bread!

After about a minute, you’ll see the pancake start to firm up and bubbles appear on top. The pancakes turn from liquid to solid through gelatinization. This is when the molecular bonds of starch molecules start to break down when heat and water are introduced. The starch granules absorb the water, swell up, and burst, which causes the batter to thicken and form. The bubbles on top let you know when it’s time to flip the pancake to the other side. This is the gas being forced out of the pancake batter. Cooking raises the temperature and increases the pressure of dissolved carbon dioxide. Bubbles form and rise as the volume of CO2 increases and the capacity of the batter firms up. Once the bubbles pop and release gas, you’re good to flip!

Browning Pancakes

You’ll let it cook for about a minute on the other side. It’ll take less time since there’s already heat in the pancake. Once you get the golden-brown crust you want, take it off the heat and onto your plate! Since you’ll have plenty of remaining batter, you might as well make more. Even as you get low on batter, you can still eat delicious tiny flapjacks! When it’s all ready, serve it up and add your favorite topping. Maple syrup, whipped cream, loose berries, chocolate chips…whatever your heart desires! As we can see, there’s a lot of science that can go into serving up the simple flapjack.

Barrier Breakers

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Happy Women's History Month!

Women have historically been underrepresented in STEM fields, so this Women's History Month, we're taking the time to highlight some incredible scientists from throughout history. These women broke barriers and overcame obstacles, clearing the way for others to follow in their footsteps.

Gertrude Belle Elion

Did you know that women receive only about 5 percent of all patents? Women remain a largely overlooked pool of scientific knowledge. But Gertrude Elion began to pave the way for change when she became the first woman inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) in 1991. 

Elion was a pioneer in the development of drugs to combat leukemia, septic shock, and many other ailments. With research partner George Hitchings, Elion employed what is now known as rational drug design - intentionally creating molecules that would interfere with the replication process of DNA, stopping cell reproduction in its tracks. This was extraordinary science for the 1940s, especially because much was still unknown about DNA, including the double-helix structure. Her discovery paved the way for the creation of treatments for leukemia, gout, malaria, herpes, and many other diseases. 

A headshot of Gertrude Elion

Chien-Shiung Wu

Known sometimes as the "First Lady of Physics" or the "Queen of Nuclear Research," Chien-Shiung Wu made extraordinary contributions to the field of physics. For a time, she worked on enriching uranium ore for the Manhattan Project - the research and development project that created the first nuclear weapons. After that, she began extensively researching beta decay, a form of radioactivity in which a proton turns into a neutron by emitting a beta particle (an electron or positron). She was the first to observe that these shedding particles have a preferred direction of emission, which violates the principle of parity. This principle states that it is impossible to distinguish direction (right from left, clockwise from counterclockwise, etc.) in any particle interaction. 

Dr. Chien-Shiung Wu in her laboratory with particle physics equipment.

It was a discovery worthy of a Nobel Prize in Physics - except it wasn't awarded to Wu. The Nobel Prize in 1957 went to Chen Ning Yang and Tsung-Dao Lee, two men whose theory was proved by Wu's experiment. They even credited Wu in their acceptance speech! Wu did, however, become the first recipient of the Wolf Prize in Physics in 1978. The Wolf Prize is often regarded as the most prestigious award in each scientific discipline after the Nobel Prize. 

María de los Ángeles Alvariño Gonzalez

A black and white headshot of Dr. Maria de los Angeles Alvarino Gonzalez.

In the scientific world, it is generally frowned upon to name newly discovered species after yourself. That's why none of the 22 species of plankton discovered by Ángeles Alvariño (her preferred moniker) are named after her. Known as a world-renowned expert on zooplankton, Alvariño studied all over the world, including Spain, Great Britain, the United States, Mexico, and even Antarctica. 

Alvariño began as an educator, teaching for seven years before beginning her research career. While living in Madrid and working for the Department of Sea Fisheries, Alvariño applied to do research with the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (SIO) - but legally, women were forbidden from boarding Spanish Navy vessels. The archaic law had been written in the 1700s, but it was technically still in effect. Even the SIO did not admit women at the time. Alvariño was undeterred; in 1950, she was accepted to the SIO thanks to her extensive academic credentials and research acumen. She became so well-known in the field that two species were named for her by other scientists: Aidanosagitta alvarinoae (an arrow-worm) and Lizzia alvarinoae (a hydrozoan). More than that, seven years after her death, the SIO launched a new research vessel: the Ángeles Alvariño.

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Protect the Planet

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An Eye on the Horizon

Orlando Science Center is dedicated to helping break down fears surrounding intimidating topics in order to encourage more curiosity, innovation, and discussion. We want to strengthen people’s skills in the scientific method so they can apply critical thinking skills to make informed decisions regarding science topics.

So, what is a major issue we face every day that might seem intimidating? Climate change. Building critical thinking skills and science literacy will help us better understand complex interactions and connections between us, our planet, and our ecosystems.


Questions to Consider

By the end of this page, you should be able to answer the following questions: 

What is climate change?
How does climate change affect my life?
What can I do to help make a difference? 

Global WarningLake Eola flooded due to rainfall from Hurricane Ian.


Take hurricanes, for example. Are they caused by climate change? No, but they are affected by it. For instance, Hurricane Ian was one of the most devastating and destructive storms Florida has ever endured. One of the top five strongest storms ever to make landfall here, Ian was the deadliest hurricane to strike us in nearly 100 years.

Many factors contributed to Hurricane Ian, so, alone, the storm can’t tell us much. But when we compare data from Ian to data from other major storms throughout history, a pattern becomes clear.

“You need to look at trends,” states Kim Prather, Distinguished Chair in Atmospheric Chemistry at University of California, San Diego. “And there is definitely an increase in the number of major weather-related disasters occurring over recent decades.”

Experts agree that while climate change cannot be credited with causing one storm, the historical changes in surface temperatures, sea level, and rainfall clearly indicate that climate change contributes directly to the strength and size of a storm.

Andrew Dessler is the director of Texas Center for Climate Studies and professor of atmospheric sciences at Texas A&M. While discussing Hurricane Ian, Dessler said, “We are 100% sure that the storm surge was more damaging because it was riding on a higher sea level. We are very confident that global warming is also causing more rainfall from hurricanes because warmer air holds more water.”

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) provides regular assessments of the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts and future risks, and options for ways to make a positive impact. In its most recent Synthesized Report (2014), the IPCC stated clearly, “Warming of the climate system is unequivocal.”

So, what can we do? Well, that’s what we’re here to discover – together!


Why Are We Talking About This? 

The Science Matters program at Orlando Science Center is about building critical thinking skills and encouraging discussion and science literacy regarding important science topics in the news.

With this campaign, we hope to provide tools for you to help you gain a better understanding of the impact of climate change on your life. We will identify resources to help break down what climate change means and inspire us to make a positive impact. 

An Introduction to Climate Change

Our understanding of climate change has gone through several changes over the last few decades. For a while, debate centered on whether global warming existed at all. Later, the debate evolved into an either/or situation: are humans impacting the climate, or is this change entirely natural?

A poster from the IPCC depicting rice fields with the description: "Climate Science for Decision-Making."It is very clear that humans are changing the atmosphere through greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation, which is leading to a warmer average temperature and changes in climate and ecosystems around the globe.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a collection of people around the world who have dedicated their entire lives to the research of climate change. They’ve created detailed reports that prove these claims.

If you’d like to do your own research, you can read through these reports on the IPCC Website. The reports are a great source, and the IPCC provides more approachable summaries on their site that do a good job of breaking down the complex science.

However, if you’re looking for something more digestible, you’re in luck! There are many reliable sources across the internet. If you need help figuring out whether a source is reliable or not, check out our blog on Mythbusting Misinformation. We’ve shared some of our favorite resources on climate change below.

Understanding Our Impact

Before we dive into solving the world’s problems, it’s important to understand how our actions impact our planet. For example, a carbon footprint is a measure of how much our daily activities – such as using energy, driving a car, or disposing of waste – cause greenhouse gas emissions. This Carbon Footprint Calculator estimates your footprint in three areas: home energy, transportation, and waste. Everyone’s carbon footprint is different - try out the calculator now to see what your footprint looks like!

Plus, here are some great videos to help you understand how individuals, organizations, and countries contribute to climate change and what they’re doing now to make a positive impact.

What is Climate Change? 

From Crash Course, this video is a great introduction to the main driving forces of climate change and how individuals and organizations are contributing.

Who is Responsible for Climate Change?

From a series supported by Breakthrough Energy - a coalition formed by Bill Gates to expand clean-energy investment - this video shows how countries and politics play into climate change.

Have We Made Any Progress on Climate Change? 

From PBS Terra, explore where we've been in our race against the clock, where we're going, and how greenhouse emission projections can help us understand this story - as well as our future on this planet.

What's the Deepest Storm Surge in History? 

Hurricane Ian brought 15 feet of storm surge into Ft. Myers when it made landfall. From PBS Terra, this video explores the causes of storm surge - the most dangerous part of a hurricane - and why it matters.

Join the Planetary Defenders! An Eye on the Horizon

The good news about climate change is that it is NOT an all-or-nothing outcome. There are a million different possibilities with varying degrees of impact, and the more we do to slow down the change, the more we can minimize harm. This truly means that every little bit helps – and there are hundreds of ways to make a positive difference!

Everything from turning off lights to advocating for policy change that supports meaningful action can make an impact. One of the biggest ways you can make a difference is to simply be curious. Educate yourself and remember that there is always more to learn, no matter your background or education level.

Here are some resources to get you started in your role as a Planetary Defender:

  • Get involved with organizations and programs like Inspector Planet! On a mission to extend humanity’s time on Earth, the Inspector Planet team works to sustain the natural resources we need to survive through investigation, innovation, and information. You can help the team by reporting environmentally unusual observations, helping to collect data, or signing up for citizen/community science programs.
  • For the Grown-Ups: Many utility providers in different cities and municipalities offer rebates for making energy-saving changes around your home. For example, OUC offers a number of different rebates for both residential and commercial properties! Check with your utility provider to see if you might be eligible for any of these programs.
  • Try your hand at composting! Composting is the process of turning kitchen and yard waste into usable, nutrient-rich soil through natural decomposition. The Science Center composts food waste from our café, and it's much more approachable than you may think. Single family residents in the City of Orlando can request a free backyard composter, and our friends at O-Town Compost have community composting down to a science. Check them out and learn from the best!

How to Talk to Your Kids About Climate Change

Caregivers, you know your child best. That’s why you’re in the best position to talk to your kids about climate change! Each of these articles offers suggestions and perspectives for preparing for and facilitating successful and supportive conversations about climate change with kids of all ages – from young children to teens. While these are arranged by most appropriate age from youngest to oldest, each of these resources has something to be learned for all ages.

Did your child have questions about climate change following your conversation? Are they feeling a strong need to help and take action? These resources provide specific tips for children and families to conserve resources and reduce their impact. They’d be a great follow-up resource to conversations about protecting the planet.

Be sure to check in at the KidsTown Studio for a copy of our Science Matters/Climate Change Children’s Book List. The list will also be available on the OSC app! These books offer age-appropriate introductions (covering ages 3-12) to what’s happening and how children and families can help!

Walking the Walk at Orlando Science Center

At Orlando Science Center, it’s important to us that we pair online resources like this with on-site activities that help reinforce these concepts. That’s why we have a couple of activities planned – both scheduled shows and pop-up activities – that can help you get hands-on with climate change as a concept!

Every day at 4:00 pm, we run a live show on the Discovery Stage in Our Planet to help visitors understand the basics of climate change. The show includes simple demonstrations to help you better understand climate change, as well as a few hands-on activities to show just how difficult it can be to agree on how to tackle complex issues like this. You’ll learn more about the concept of carbon neutrality and explore the simple science around how our planet is warming.

Plus, we’ll be debuting a large pop-up activity in the rotunda, where guests will be challenged to demonstrate the carbon cycle with just buckets and ping pong balls! Explore how carbon levels balance (or unbalance!) as visitors redistribute themselves around the board, serving as symbols of volcanoes and trees, which emit and absorb carbon, respectively.

We’ve also created a number of programs in KidsTown specifically for our visitors aged 7 and below. These resources include a special KidsTown Studio bookshelf, guest StoryTime readers like local meteorologists, and family-friendly resource sheets with tips on talking about and addressing climate change together, we have programming for all ages!

In addition to our hands-on approach to learning, we also believe in doing our part to combat climate change. Have you ever wondered what happens to the aeroponic plants we grow outside the 4Roots Café? They become food for some of our animal ambassadors! We also use old shredded documents to provide enrichment and comfort in their enclosures.  These are just a few ways we are working to do our part and make a positive impact. 

Hope for Tomorrow

Like we said earlier, climate change is not an all-or-nothing issue. There is work to be done, and we can ALL help! Science begins with good communication, so help us spread the word. Talk to people in your life who might not be thinking about this! Here’s a list of conversation starters, in case you’re not sure where to begin. You can also check out this video, The Secret to Talking about Climate Change, presented by Action for the Climate Emergency.

Conversation Starters: 

  • Does our neighborhood recycle?
  • What are the most impactful things we do to protect the environment? What are the most harmful and what can we do about that?
  • Have you ever noticed changes in your local environment? How do these changes affect the plants and animals that live there?
  • What are common sources of air pollution that you see every day? What can you do to help reduce air pollution? Can you carpool, walk, or bike more instead of driving?
  • What are the things that you do that use the most water? How can you reduce the amount of water you use? Can you fix leaks and take shorter showers?
  • How can you get involved in environmental initiatives in your community? Can you join a conservation group or participate in a local cleanup effort?
  • Do you know how your food gets from the farm to your table? Can you think of ways to reduce the distance it travels?
  • How can you reduce the amount of waste you produce? Can you recycle or compost more?
  • What is your favorite outdoor place? Why do you like it? How can you help protect it?
  • What do you do every day to conserve resources? Can you think of new ways to save energy and water?
  • What are some of your favorite products, and how are they made? Can you think of alternatives that are better for the environment?
  • What are some of the dangers facing wildlife and their habitats? Can you think of ways to help protect them?
  • How much food waste is created in your house every week? What can you do to reduce that number?

We WILL fix climate change! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all of this doom-and-gloom, don’t worry – you’re not alone. But humanity is not doomed. There is hope for tomorrow! All you have to do is take things one step at a time. In the meantime, check out these 22 inventions that show how science and innovation are helping to make a real difference in climate-related efforts around the world. 

Spark STEM Fest Ignites Your Curiosity and Inspires Innovation!

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4-Day Celebration of All Things Science at Orlando Science Center's Spark STEM Fest

Presidents Day Weekend - February 17-20, 2023 Presented by UCF Office of Research

Otronicon has evolved with Spark STEM Fest coming to Orlando Science Center! When Otronicon debuted in 2006, Orlando Science Center knew they had something special. Over the years, this event engaged thousands with exciting STEM lessons wrapped in an unforgettable package. As Otronicon grew, they discovered that there was real educational power with connecting the public to industry through exclusive opportunities and innovative partners. This collaboration combined with a desire to ignite curiosity, inspire innovation and build community has become the foundation for the all-new Spark STEM Fest, which premieres Friday, February 17, and continues through February 20, 2023.

Spark STEM Fest builds on Otronicon’s success with capturing the public’s imagination through a fast-pasted, multi-day celebration, but focuses on the entire STEM field, not just technology.  Presented by UCF Office of Research, Spark STEM Fest resides at the crossroads of inspiration and engagement, stimulating fascination with STEM careers, encouraging meaningful interactions between the public and STEM professionals and creating dreams of a bright, new future.

 

This 4-day event features multiple exhibitors, workshops, and dynamic demonstrations, led by STEM experts to engage visitors of all ages, including the following eye-popping opportunities.

  • World Renowned Juggler and Engineer Greg Kennedy weaves science, engineering and art gracefully into a live show illustrating the physics at work during his kinetic creations. This show makes physics approachable through relatable stories and captivating demonstrations.
  • Learn about the Artemis Program and other current and upcoming NASA missions launching from our own backyard on the Space Coast. Act as an engineer in KSC's Exploration Ground Systems program and work with your team to build your own Mobile Launcher tower that can withstand the winds experienced on the launch pad.

  • Unlock the possibilities waiting for you in the world of coding! Led by Disney programmers and engineers, workshop participants will design their own software while discovering the essentials of computer science and software design.

Image of the Innovative Juggler
  • Get hands-on with expert-led workshops! Learn how to code like a pro, get flight lessons from Lockheed Martin or dive into the science of sharks. You’ll leave these workshops with a newfound skill and insight into different STEM careers.
  • Ready Player One? Race down Rainbow Road or join the Super Smash Bros Tournament during Spark STEM Fest with Powder Keg Games! Visitors can enter for a chance to win cash prizes and be proclaimed champion as they compete in various video games tournaments.
  • From LITERALLY cool liquid nitrogen demonstrations and foam explosions to animal encounters and meet and greets, enjoy shows and presentations from the creative minds behind our most popular events like Mess Fest, Astro Fest, and Science Night Dead.
Guests engaged in exciting interactive exhibits.
  • Flip for science by enjoying this live acrobatic show that is the perfect blend of education and fun! Watch as the duo from WeFlip teach basic science concepts and then demonstrate how they put them to work with acrobatics! They climb five stacked chairs and test Newton’s Second Law by dropping objects from great heights!
  • You don't have to be a rocket scientist to have fun with physics! Join the UCF Department of Physics to explore the physics behind energy conversion and storage. Don't worry if you aren't a physics whiz - these pros will help ignite the spark of curiosity in visitors of all ages with hands-on demos and easy-to-understand concepts. The Department is led by Dr. Joshua Colwell, who has led experiments that have flown on the Space Shuttle, suborbital rockets, parabolic airplane flights, and been performed on the International Space Station.
  • If it can be dreamed, it can be measured, and if it can be measured, it can be realized, says the digital geniuses from FARO, an imaging company that imagines a better, more insightful and capable world through 3D digital means and measurement technologies. Explore their vision as they share how they created a full life-sized a scan of our famous T-Rex Stan.
Image of We Flip - Acrobatic Science Live
  • John Collins is a master paper airplane builder and has amazed audiences on Conan O’Brien and shared his secrets with Wired Magazine. He has studied both origami and aerodynamics to design planes that set world records. He will be showing guests how to build many of his designs, including the one that broke the Guinness World Record by flying 226 feet 10 inches.
  • We have all now seen amazing projection mapping on a building and seen it change before our eyes to become something or be somewhere else. What if this object that we were projecting on was moved? What if the movement was not predicable? See demonstrations of dynamic projection mapping on a moving object and learn its secrets, thanks to the experts at 7thSense.

  • Discover all about sharks, our ocean and how you can help protect both with the passionate marine biologists from Minorities in Shark Sciences. They will display shark jaws, skin, skeletons and other specimens plus hosts games and activities to learn more about sharks and marine conservation. Check out shark dissections at scheduled times throughout the event.

John Collins a.k.a. The Paper Airplane Guy

Check out a full schedule of Spark STEM Fest events!

SCHEDULE

 

Experience Spark STEM Fest - without the kids during Science Night Live! 

Looking for a more grown-up way to interact with exhibitors, community partners, or thought-provoking guest speakers? 21+ are invited to a very special Science Night Live featuring Spark STEM Fest!

SNL is your ultimate destination for a get-together with science-minded friends or a fun date night out. This is your chance to experience our biggest event of the year in a casual, engaging atmosphere that is available for adults only. Science Night Live proves that there’s no age limit on curiosity!

LEARN MORE
A couple enjoying activities at science night live

Spark STEM Fest Hours: February 17 - 20, 2023, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

General Admission: Spark is free for OSC members, $24.00 for adults, $12.00 for seniors and students, and $18.00 for youth (ages 2-11).

SCIENCE FOR ALL - General Admission Access Program: If you have an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) or WIC card with a State-issued photo ID matching the name and state as the card, you qualify for a $3 admission per person for up to six individuals.

For more information, please call 407.514.2000.

GENERAL TICKETS

Homemade Gifts Inspired by Science

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Add a genius personal touch by giving homemade gifts inspired by science! 

We all know that one person who is impossible to shop for. Ditch the plastic packaging, and try adding a personal touch to your gift-giving by trying one of these homemade gifts inspired by science! 

Not only will you be creating a one-of-a-kind project, but you'll learn a little and have a lot of fun in the process! 

You don't need to be Michelangelo to create these homemade works of art

Try an ancient art technique 

In this DIY Fresco art activity, we will be doing a modified version that kids of all ages can do at home!

DIY Fresco Art For Kids • An Activity in Ancient Art

Homemade cards created with chemistry!

Creative cards

Using supplies you can find around the house, customize homemade greeting cards with this marbleized shaving cream technique. Just add calligraphy! 

How to Make Marbleized Paper to Create Custom Cards and Artwork

Nailed it!

Here's a novel idea, add a stunning iridescent effect to any card, or create a custom bookmark. All you need is a few drops of clear nail polish! 

How to Create Iridescent Art: A Colorful STEAM Bookmark Activity

That's a Warp!

It’s a common misconception that wrapping paper can be recycled simply because it’s paper. However, coated, glittery, and textured paper materials cannot.

When these unrecyclable materials get mixed in with recyclable products, it can result in the whole lot being thrown away. Instead, try using paper materials like newspapers, old maps, comics, or make and design your own using recyclable paper bags and DIY stamps!

Kids Homemade Stamps DIY — Recycled Custom Creations

Reduce, reuse, UPcycle! 

Stitch outside the box

Give your clothes a second life by adding accents or embellishments. Get inspired with some of these embroidery ideas! 

Embroidery Techniques to Try: From Basics to Sashiko

Copy & Paint

Looking for an easy way to customize a t-shirt, tote bag, or even a pair of jeans? With this puffy paint technique, you have a chance to refine your design and keep yourself from suffering the agony of using puffy paint with a shaky hand.

Puffy Paint Technique: Try This Trick for Nearly Perfect Pictures!

DIY Tie-Dye 

Turn your avocado skins into a fashion statement! Learn how to extract tannin from the pit and skin of avocados to make your own fabric dye!  

Make Avocado Dye to Upcycle T-Shirts

Astrophotography in Central Florida: Capturing the Cosmos

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See (literally) out-of-this-world astrophotography in Central Florida 

Marvel at the wonders of the universe through the stunning space photography by nationally renowned Astrophotographer, and director of the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College, Derek Demeter. With his work featured in numerous astronomy and space publications, Mr. Demeter's prints show the breathtaking views that can be captured through a small telescope and digital SLR camera from right here in Central Florida! 

On display in Fusion: A STEAM Gallery, Capturing the Cosmos covers three major areas of astrophotography, all uniquely shot from Florida: scenic nightscapes that juxtapose the natural environment of Earth and the night sky, celestial neighbors we find within our Solar System, and wondrous deep-sky phenomena of colorful nebulae and expansive galaxies.

The Horsehead and Flame Nebula – Chiefland

Meet the man behind the lens: Derek Demeter

"Greetings stargazers! My name is Derek Demeter and I welcome you to the world of astrophotography. Ever since I was a little kid, I have had a passion for gazing up at the stars. I remember visiting the John Young Planetarium in Orlando when I was 6 years old and seeing a show about the planet Mars with my father and from that point on my obsession with astronomy began.

When I was in high school, I got my first ever camera and took photography classes and in college is where I was introduced to the world of astrophotography. I remember using the schools telescope to capture my first ever astrophotography of the Orion Nebula. 

A Sea of Stars – Canaveral National Seashore, New Smyrna

Eventually, I got a job at the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College and purchased a telescope of my own. These photos you see in this gallery are a result of the many years of trial and error and work needed to master the art of astrophotography in Central Florida. The photos I am sharing here before you tell a story of our universe from here on Earth to the distant objects in the cosmos.

I also hope this experience proves that Florida is a place for astronomy and that we can appreciate our dark spaces and seek refuge in that darkness. I hope these photos capture your imagination, unlocks a passion for the night sky, and encourages you to help preserve it for generations to come."

Make space at home!

Can't get enough space? From stargazing to stomp rockets, experience something new with one of these stellar activities! 

Learn something new! 

From science facts to science fiction, check out some exciting books about exploring space. They’ll have you imagining what could be next!

Books About Exploring Space for Any Planet Pioneer

Try something new! 

Space exploration requires more than brave astronauts. They won't get far without engineers to build their space crafts! Do you think you can build a rocket that could launch astronauts into orbit? Build your engineering skills with this DIY stomp rocket project!

3..2..1.. Blast Off to Fun With This DIY Stomp Rocket Activity!

See something new! 

Astronomy and astrophotography can be an expensive hobby, but the good news is you don’t need a telescope to enjoy the night sky! Our space experts here at Orlando Science Center have compiled the best stargazing tips for beginners, so you can enjoy the stars and constellations above Central Florida.

Top Five Tips To Begin A Stargazing Hobby