Astrophotography in Central Florida: Capturing the Cosmos

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!

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!

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.

Spark STEM Fest

Orlando Science Center’s most popular multi-day event Spark STEM Fest is back!

The event resides at the crossroads of inspiration and engagement, igniting curiosity in STEM careers, empowering meaningful connections between the public and STEM professionals, and building excitement for the possibilities that lie ahead.

Celebrating the success and growth that our STEM community has experienced over the past 18 years, our event has evolved to include all fields of science, technology, engineering, and math with a focus to expand our audience and impact even further.

KEY GOALS


  • Raise awareness of the value of STEM in everyday life
  • Help bridge the STEM literacy gap
  • Work towards equitable access in STEM
  • Encourage exploration and pursuit of STEM careers

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS

Presented by UCF Office of Research Logo
7thSense Logo
Burns & McDonnell Logo
Walt Disney World Logo
ECS Logo
Florida High Tech Corridor Logo
Florida Photonics Cluster Logo
Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan Logo
Manufacturers association of Central Florida Logo
Mass Virtual Logo
National Center Simulation Logo
Arts & Cultural Affairs Orange County Government Florida Logo
Orange Technical College Logo
Orlando Economic Partnership Logo
Orlando Technology Community Logo
Qorvo Logo
Rollins Logo
Seay Business Logo
UCF - College of Engineering & Computer Science and College of Sciences
UCF - CREATE (Center for Research and Education in Arts, Technology, and Entertainment) Logo
UCF - Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy and IST, School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training
UCF RESTORES Logo
Verizon Logo
VyStar Credit Union Logo

Would you like to be an event sponsor?

Join the exclusive group of forward-thinking corporations and educational institutions that provide sponsorship support at Spark STEM Fest. As a sponsor, you have the opportunity to:

  • Increase your organization's brand awareness and recognition throughout Central Florida
  • Drive media coverage around your company’s commitment to STEM
  • Benefit from meaningful employee engagement opportunities and network with other organizations
  • Support local workforce development by showcasing exciting STEM career pathways and providing opportunities to connect with STEM professionals

Sponsorship benefits include logo recognition, event passes, opportunities to participate at the event, VIP access, and more! For more information on sponsorship levels and benefits, please contact Heather Mahoney, Corporate Development Officer, at hmahoney@osc.org or 407.514.2014.

Science on Tap Outdoor Beer Fest

Hop in for an afternoon of brews, food, and science while supporting a good cause!

This event features over 30 local breweries from around Central Florida who will be sampling some of their best brews. Sip your way through interactive science demos, enjoy good music, challenge your friends at fun lawn games, and enjoy a few of our favorite local food trucks offering tasty treats available for purchase.

Whether you’re a VIP or the Designated Driver, explore our ticket packages and reserve yours today at www.osc.org/science-on-tap

Tiny Green Home

Tiny Green Home Tours
Level 1 – Outside 4Roots Cafe

This diminutive abode offers a hands-on experience through interactive displays that educate visitors on energy and water conservation measures, sustainability rebates, vehicle electrification, renewables, composting, food gardens and other efficiency methods.

It includes a functioning roof-top solar array and a rain barrel to collect and conserve water, among other green features visitors can add to their own homes.

Built by OUC, the City of Orlando, and Orlando Science Center, the 200-square-foot home hopes to increase sustainability education and awareness in Central Florida.

Check out the Building Guide to see a map and information for our current exhibits.

Download Building Guide

The Tiny Green Home is an educational resource showcasing the benefits of:

  1. Energy and water conservation
  2. Renewable energy
  3. Sustainability rebates
  4. Vehicle electrification
  5. Composting
  6. Growing your own food 
  7. Sustainability programs from OUC, the City, and the Science Center.

Part of the American Cities Climate Challenge grant, the $100,000 project is funded equally by OUC and the City, along with a $15,000 grant from The Natural Resources Defense Council.

Thank You to our Partners! 

To learn more about programs and resources, click to visit our partners below!

City of Orlando Logo
OUC The Reliable One Logo

Generous Support Provided by:

Little Diversified Architecture

View – Smart Glass

Tip Top Roofing

esaSolar

Rheem Manufacturing Company

Ferran Services

Thomas Lumber Co.

NovaCharge

Ovation Construction

4Roots Foundation

Landreth Lighting

Karndean Design Flooring

Rachio

Unveil: Wedding Showcase

Calling all newly-engaged couples…

Join us and some of our favorite vendors as we unveil Orlando Science Center for a night of wedding inspiration!

Our wedding showcase will highlight our unique and exciting venue spaces, and give a glimpse into how our fantastic vendors can transform the Science Center into the wedding of your dreams.

Unveil is your one-stop-shop for all things wedding. Don’t just imagine your perfect day, see the Science Center dressed to the nines!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to tour the venue, get to know vendors, and learn why we have weddings down to a science!

Learn how to reserve your tickets at https://www.osc.org/unveil.

Science on Tap

Hop in for an afternoon of brews, food, and science while supporting a good cause!

This event features over 30 local breweries from around Central Florida who will be sampling some of their best brews. Sip your way through interactive science demos, enjoy live music, challenge your friends at fun lawn games, and enjoy a few of our favorite local food trucks offering tasty treats available for purchase.

Proceeds from this event enable Orlando Science Center to inspire science learning for life through engaging experiences that build important skills and illustrate the power of science to address real world challenges. Thank you for your support!

Win an All-Expense Paid Trip* 

Science on Tap is made possible in part by support from our friends at Land Rover Orlando, who are also providing unforgettable opportunity to festival guests. Join us at the event for your chance to win an all-expense paid trip to Vermont and have a true Land Rover experience! From airfare and rideshare to a stay at the Equinox Golf Resort & Spa to an exclusive adventure at the Vermont Land Rover Experience Center, the lucky winner is sure to have a fantastic experience. It's time to see what's possible through science and innovation!

logo, company name

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. This event is open to all ages, but minors must be supervised at all times.

Minors 16 years or older must have a valid "Designated Driver/No Alcohol" ticket and be with a paying 21+ guest to enter.

Minors must be supervised at all times. Unsupervised minors will be required to leave the area.

All attendees with a beer sampling ticket must bring valid identification. IDs will be checked and entrance will be denied without proper identification, even with a valid ticket.

All attendees with a beer sampling ticket must have valid identification. IDs will be checked and entrance will be denied without proper identification, even with a valid ticket.

Paid parking will be very limited in the OSC Garage. Free parking is available at the AdventHealth McRae Garage at 2424 McRae Avenue. We encourage all guests sampling beer to bring a designated driver, or use ride-share services or taxis for safe travel. 

Limited parking also available at: 
AdventHealth Urology: 1812 Mills Ave, Orlando
Magruder Eye Institute: 1911 North Mills Ave, Orlando

Science on Tap Parking Map

Tickets are available the day of the event - purchase tickets here. All ticket purchases will be processed immediately on-site.

Licensed service animals are the only pets allowed entry to the event.

The event is hosted outside in a grassy field, so we suggest dressing according to weather conditions. Casual attire is recommended.

While sampling brews, you can also enjoy fun science demonstrations, exciting lawn games, a 360° photobooth, good music, and opportunities to learn more about brewing your own beer at home!

Food will be available for purchase on-site from a variety of participating food trucks.

Alcohol will not be available for purchase at Science on Tap. Admission includes beer samples provided by over thirty participating breweries. VIP tickets include two 12oz beer pours of your choice. 

Last call will be at 3:30 pm We suggest arriving at your designated ticket time to ensure adequate time to sample beers from over thirty participating breweries.

Presenting Sponsor

Land Rover Orlando

Supporting Sponsors

animal
Arts & Cultural Affairs Orange County Government Florida Logo
Orlando City Soccer / Orlando Pride logos
Spotlight Energy Logo
Threat Locker Logo

Community Partners

Astronomy on Tap logo
a gold and black logo
SAAZ Logo
packaged goods

Thank You to Our Event Partners

3 Mavins Logo
Abita Logo
Ace Cider Company logo
Alcatraz Brewing Logo
Big Storm Brewing logo
Bone Hook Logo
Boston Beer Co. Logo
Brewlando Logo
Cigar City Brewing Logo
Crooked Can Brewing Logo
Dees Brothers Brewery Logo
Funky Buddha
Green Bench Brewing Logo
logo, company name
Heineken logo
Home State Brewing Logo
Ivanhoe Park Brewing Logo
Keel Farms logo
Leader Brewing Logo
Orange County Brewers Logo
Park Brewing Logo
Persimmon Hollow logo
Redlight Redlight logo
Sanford Brewing logo
Sierra Nevada logo
Sun King Brewery Logo
Ten 10 Brewing logo
The Tank Brewing logo
Three Odd Guys Brewing Logo
White Claw Logo
Windermere Brewing Logo
World of Beer logo
Yuengling logo

Take a break in-between beer sampling and enjoy some good eats!

Atlanta Peach Wings Logo
Cholo Dogs Logo - Original Mexican Hotdogs
Kappys Logo
Orlando Parking Lot Party Logo
Phat Ash Bakes logo
Red Panda Noodles Logo

How to get involved!

Are you a brewery or distributor and want to showcase your best brews?

Download the form below or contact Helen Tillem at 407.514.2290 or htillem@osc.org.

Science on Tap: Brewer Form

*Visa gift card will be provided to the winner for airfare and rideshare in the amount of $950. Gift Certificate for the Vermont Land Rover Experience Center will be provided to the winner in the amount of $1,350. Gift Certificate for the Equinox Golf Resort & Spa in Manchester Village, VT will be provided to the winner in the amount of $1,700. Total value $4,000. No purchase or payment is necessary to enter or win. Taxes not included.  1 winner per household. No cash value. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. Void where prohibited or restricted by law or regulation. See dealer for details. Expires 1/22/24. 1 winner will be selected. Drawing to be conducted on or before 2/15/24. Winner will be notified by email and must reply within 7 days. 

Science Night Live

Science Night Live

Next Event: April 6, 2024  |  8:00 – 11:30 pm

Enjoy everything you love about the Science Center – without the kids! Special programming is designed just for adults.

 There’s no age limit on curiosity, and 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 the joy of science! Explore interactive exhibit halls, try hands-on experiments in Dr. Dare's Lab, and catch special guest speakers. 

Featuring a new theme each time, no two Science Night Live events are the same! Must be 21 years or older to attend.

Limited tickets are available for just $19 and usually sell out online in advance so purchase yours today!

Orlando Science Center Members receive complimentary admission, but must reserve their tickets in advance.

Food partners will have light bites and adult beverages available for purchase. Sip beer, wine or cocktails and enjoy small-plate edibles while you listen to music and get your geek on. We recommend purchasing with cash to reduce wait time and lines.
Keynote speaker at Science Night Live

Speakers

Each Science Night Live our guests have the chance to hear from some of the greatest minds around! From Boeing engineers who work on spacecrafts to professors talking about the species within your feces, these speakers are guaranteed to leave you with a new sense of knowledge each and every Science Night Live.

Guest and presenter having fun during a Science Night Live Program.

Programs

Whether it's an interactive Science Live show, competitive Science Trivia, or looking to the stars on the FINFROCK Terrace, our staff prepares unique and exciting programs for your to enjoy during Science Night Live.

Guest and volunteer making origami in The Hive.

Workshops

Step into The Hive: A Makerspace and walk out with a new sense of creativity. Whether you're making friendship bracelets or recycled costumes – you and your friends will create lasting memories during Science Night Live Workshops. Then, make your way to Dr. Dare's Lab, strap on a pair of goggles and a lab coat and become the scientist in these self-led experiments.

Two guests exploring exhibits at the Science Center.

Exhibits

Explore the science center without the kids! With four floors full of interactive exhibits, there's no age limit on fun and curiosity!

Upcoming Dates

Can’t attend the upcoming event but don’t want to miss the next one? Mark your calendars for our next few Science Night Lives!

April 6, 2024

Sponsorship

To learn more about Science Night Live sponsorship opportunities, please contact Chelsea Piner at 407.514.2289 or email CPiner@osc.org

Unveil: Wedding Showcase

Unveil Wedding Showcase

Next Event: January 17, 2024 |  6:00 – 8:00 pm

Calling all newly-engaged couples...

Join us and some of our favorite vendors as we unveil Orlando Science Center for a night of light bites, drinks, and wedding inspiration! 

Our wedding showcase will highlight our unique and exciting venue spaces, and give a glimpse into how our fantastic vendors can transform the Science Center into the wedding of your dreams.

Unveil is your one-stop-shop for all things wedding. Don’t just imagine your perfect day, see the Science Center dressed to the nines!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to tour the venue, get to know vendors, and learn why we have weddings down to a science!

 

Wedding aisle setup in Our Planet exhibit featuring blue lights and beautiful clear chairs.
Wedding setup in DinoDigs exhibit featuring beautiful table setting and T-rex in background.

Thank You to Our January 2024 Unveil Featured Vendors

 A Peachy Life Productions
Ashley-Jane-Photography-Logo
Deans Oysterbar logo
Eola Strings Logo
Event Painting Jamie logo
Florida Candy Buffets Logo
Flowers-by-Lesley-Logo
Gala Rental Company Logo
The Ginger Officiant Logo
John Michael Catering and Weddings Logo
Junction 88 Productions Logo
Kenny Kings Music Logo
Lily's Bridal, logo
Live-Happy-Studio-Logo
Mens Warehouse logo
Orlando Marquee and Decor Logo
O-Town Compost logo
Our DJ Rocks Logo
Our Photo Booth Rocks Logo
Premier Event Services Logo
Puff 'n Stuff, Logo
Rudy and Marta Photography Logo
Sugar-Divas-Cakery-Logo
Take A Shot Coffee Bar Logo
VIP Wedding Transportation Logo
WeddingVenueMap.com Logo

To learn more about having a wedding with Orlando Science Center, please visit osc.org/weddings.

Science Night Dead

BOO!

Kick-off Spooky Season with Orlando Science Center! Our fan-favorite, adults-only night at the museum is getting all dressed up for Halloween. Join us for a scientific spooktacular during Science Night Live DEAD!

On top of checking out ghoulishly good guest speakers, guests can put their BrAiNsSs to the test with terrifyingly terrific trivia and community partners of mythical proportions! Food partners will have light bites and spirits available for purchase.

This event has been known to sell out and tickets are available online only for just $19, so get yours before they’re gone at www.osc.org/snl!