At some museums, the exhibits focus on science topics that have been studied for years. But how can you learn about current science — the new science discoveries that are reported on television and the Internet every day?
Science 360, of course! With topics ranging from biotechnology to meteorology, Science 360 shows combine animations, videos and other big-screen graphic images with live interaction between audience members and a show presenter.
Science 360 shows are presented in the NASA Digital Theater and are included with purchase of a planetarium show ticket.
Anybody Out There?
Is extraterrestrial life science fiction or science fact? Join a Morehead educator for this live, interactive presentation exploring the age–old question: Are we the only intellegent life in the universe? Find out what current science has to say, then weigh in with your own interpretation of the evidence. Recommended for ages 8 and up. + more info
The Developing Brain
How does the human brain develop? Scientists are studying the external factors that can affect the brain during pregnancy, and this Science 360 shares their research with you. Recommended for ages 8 and up. + more info
Flower Power!
Got allergies? Enjoy eating food? Take medicine upon occasion? Then you're affected by flowering plants. Come learn the secrets researchers are learning about the flowering plants around us. Recommended for ages 8 and up. + more info
Genetic Engineering
What is genetic engineering? How does it affect our lives right now? In “Science 360: Genetic Engineering” audience members learn about the story of the human insulin gene, along with some basic principles of genetic engineering. Recommended for ages 12 and up. + More info
Heat Wave
Earth’s average temperature has risen significantly over the last 100 years. What will happen if Earth continues to warm? Are humans responsible, and can we do anything to stop it? A Morehead educator leads this live, interactive presentation exploring global warming. Recommended for ages 8 and older. + more info
Stem Cells Demystified
We hear about stem cells in the news, but what's the science behind the headlines? Led by >a Morehead educator, this live, interactive presentation explores what stem cells are, why scientists want to study them, and why some stem cell research is controversial. Recommended for ages 12 and older. This Science 360 is supported by a North Carolina Biotechnology Center grant. + more info
What Happened to Pluto?
What makes a planet ... a planet? Astronomers voted to reclassify Pluto, known as the smallest planet in our Solar System. Now Pluto is considered a "dwarf planet" and our Solar System officially has eight planets. How did this happen? + more info
Major funding for Science 360 is provided by a National Science Foundation grant to support internships in physical science education.