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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Add some sparkle to the holiday season and see some of your favorite creatures from the Cretaceous in a whole new light with Dinos In Lights at Orlando Science Center! Join STAN the T-Rex and his fossil friends in DinoDigs as they show off their twinkling talent in a festive display of music and light.
Each family-friendly show will begin every half hour and runs for four minutes, concluding with a wintry surprise. Be sure to see it multiple times on your visit as the experience is different from every angle. Please arrive several minutes before your preferred showtime as the doors will be closed during the performance.
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.
"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.
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."
Can't get enough space? From stargazing to stomp rockets, experience something new with one of these stellar activities!
From science facts to science fiction, check out some exciting books about exploring space. They’ll have you imagining what could be next!
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!
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.
DinoDigs will be closed all day to set up for Dinos In Lights Holiday Show.
Come see what all the buzz is about! In The Hive, the possibilities are as vast as your imagination. Learn how to sew a button, fold an origami crane, design a figurine using 3D modeling software then bring it to life with a 3D printer, or solder a circuit board – there’s always something new to try!
Many of the best designs come from collaboration. The Hive is a space that cultivates community and emphasizes the learning opportunities in every failure and success. Being a maker is all about creativity and experimentation.
The Hive is designed specifically for makers ages 8 and up. Makers 8-12 must be accompanied by an adult. Maker activities for ages 7 and under are available in the KidsTown Studio.
Check out the Building Guide to see a map and information for our current exhibits.
Today’s innovators recognize the critical role of art-related disciplines in solving 21st-century problems.
Fusion: A STEAM Gallery shows that art and design aren’t removed from science – they are essential complements.
You’ll find permanent pieces in the Fusion collection that highlight this relationship, including an interactive, visual theremin by Ginger Leigh; a motorized color projection piece by Ryan Buyssens; and a multi-layered tribute to victims and survivors of the Pulse tragedy by Christy McCutchen.
Traveling exhibitions are featured throughout the year with an emphasis on local artists.
For gallery inquires please email: djohnson@osc.org.
This exhibition is co-curated with Art For All Spaces
FUSION: A STEAM Gallery is a contemplative space that explores the intersection of art and science. It is a fitting home for this showcase featuring the unique talents and skills of our community’s Black artists.
Orlando Science Center is dedicated to being a welcoming and inclusive place for learning and discovery for our entire community. We are honored to showcase this 3rd annual exhibition and celebrate the beautiful diversity of our creative community in Central Florida.
Participating local artists include: Black Architects in the Making - Orlando, Joyce Hayes, Dafeney Josue, Cameron Bims, Jessica-King Rodriguez, Alexia Written, Jason Tie Davis, Yaa Riveria, Neosoe, Tr3, Gordon Hanson, Amani Johnson, C.A. Nibbs, Grey Sturgill, Lisa Moore.
The domed giant-screen Dr. Phillips CineDome and high-definition Digital Adventure Theater both offer exciting content daily, which are included with general admission. Content changes regularly, so be sure to check the theater schedule before you arrive to find out what’s playing.
Both theaters are available for private rentals for film screenings, award presentations, team meetings, talent shows, and so much more.
Choose a seat and be instantly transported to exotic and interplanetary lands. Images of clarity and extraordinary depth bring the audience on an expedition to the center of the action in this immersive cinematic experience.
A projector's fish-eye lens projects onto an 8,000 square-foot screen, creating a 180 degree image that surrounds the audience and extends beyond their peripheral vision. Films cover nature, geography, history and more, and new titles are introduced throughout the year. *Wheelchair access located via Level 3.
Dive into the action inside the stadium-seated Digital Adventure Theater. Films are presented in 3D and 2D with state-of-the-art 4K digital projection and 7.1 surround sound, offering a fully immersive experience.
The Digital Adventure Theater is also home to Science Live Shows, which are designed to delight and entertain while also aligning with Sunshine State educational standards. The electrifying High Voltage show, explosive KABOOM show, out-of-this-world Exploring Space show and more!
Content changes seasonally. Check the theater schedule prior to your visit to find out what special experiences will be offered.
Journey to the south polar landscapes of Antarctica hundreds of millions of years ago. Join Antarctic scientists on a quest to understand the ice continent's profound transformation, and predict the future as humans drive dramatic change.
Forces of Nature showcases the awesome spectacle of earthquakes, volcanoes and severe storms. Follow scientists on their quest to understand their origins, and how natural disasters are triggered.
Jane Goodall - Reasons for Hope, is an uplifting journey around the globe to highlight good news stories that will inspire people to make a difference in the world around them. Jane revolutionized how we view the world around us. Join her on this adventure of inspiration and hope.
Experience the remarkable true story of three animal species rescued from the brink of extinction. Meet scientists, park rangers and students working to save endangered animals around the world. Join this remarkable and heartfelt adventure to save endangered species around the world as we show that positive change is possible.
Explore the fundamentals of forces, learn the principles of physics and see engineering in a new light in Kinetic Zone!
This exhibit offers an electrifying array of interactive guest experiences, ranging from launching air rockets, to experimenting with circuits, to lifting yourself off the ground with different pulley systems.
Get hands-on with STEM experiences like the Balance Challenge, where you can test your invention on an 18-foot zip line, and the Coaster Challenge, where you’ll use pipes to build a model of whatever radical roller coaster you can dream up!
Check out the Building Guide to see a map and information for our current exhibits.
Donate your time to bring the Science Center to life in a way that complements your expertise and interests.
Explore an exciting real-world career in a nonprofit setting, working both independently and with the team. College credit is available.
Gain valuable skills and make new friends while giving back to the community. Opportunities are available year-round.