Public Invited to Watch as NASA Begins Journey Back to MarsCuriosity, NASA's next Mars rover, is scheduled to launch from Kennedy Space Center in FL at 7:21 a.m. PST. Members of the public are invited to the NASA Ames Exploration Center to view the live, televised launch on the large, immersive theater screen. NASA's Mars Science Laboratory mission is preparing ...
Where: Mountain ViewCost: Free
Robert Ferguson Observatory - Public Solar ViewingSolar Viewing and Planet Walk are FREE. (Donations are gratefully accepted.)State Park Admission: $8.00Docents will be on hand to show you our only star; the Sun, through specially filtered telesccopes and other devices. This is both a fun and safe experience for the whole family!**Handicapped parking and wheelchair access are ...
Where: KenwoodCost: $8.00 Parking
Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory Friday Evening ProgramCome to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders of the universe through the observatory's new computer-controlled 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views ...
Where: Los Altos HillsCost:
Saturday, 11/26/11
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Science and creativity in the city of innovationSome of the City's most interesting natives aren't people, but the brainchildren of make-it-happen San Franciscans that have changed the world. Explore the science behind the creations of some of SF's important imaginators, learn a bit about the neuroscience of creativity, and experiment ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $30 with discount code 'Schmooze'
SMCAS Star Party Come out and bring the kids for a mind expanding look at the universe.Setup of telescopes begins around sunset, with observations beginning about 1 hour later.
Go behind the scenes at Long Marine Lab. Learn about the work of scientists and their studies of dolphins, seals, sea lions, and whales. Tour is best suited for adults and children over 10 years of age. Space limited, free with admission. Reservations required: (831) 459-3800.
The past five years have brought considerable changes to geothermal development. Historically high oil prices since 2005 have focused attention on renewable energy, supported by a global ambition to address greenhouse gas reduction. Geothermal developments have accelerated in many parts of the world, both in countries (such as New Zealand, Indonesia and ...
Robert Ferguson Observatory - NIght Sky Fall SeriesGalactic "Halo" and Globular ClustersOrion, Lepus, Eridanus How to RegisterEmail nightsky@rfo.org for preregistration instructions. Or, arrive a half-hour early on the night of the first class to register, as space allows. Fee:Series : $75 Single Session : $23 (available after first class)Prices include admission to the State Park at class time.At ...
When our grandparents were young, there was no such thing as an antibiotic. Diseases like tuberculosis were invariably fatal. In the twentieth century, the fortuitous discoveries of penicillin from a mold and streptomycin from soil made a revolution in medicine. Today, we have even more powerful antibiotics, but also more ...
In pairwise accretion -- that is, the formation of bigger planets hierarchically from smaller ones -- the typical encounter speeds are comparable to the escape velocities of the dominant bodies, and the colliding bodies are of comparable size. This is a far cry from the two most commonly considered regimes: ...
Determining appropriate adaptation responses to climate change risks is critical. These responses should be understood in terms of the net benefits of the options available, the best scale of response, and timing for implementation. Michael Nolan, a technical leader at AECOM in the development of climate adaptation strategies for over ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $10 General, Free for members
We used to know how to things. That's how we guided our businesses, our government, our daily lives. But now there is so much to know and so much conflicting advice to listen to. It seems like everyone's an expert, and no one agrees with anyone else.This looks like a ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
Pearson to Person: Social Networking in the EnterprisePearson is a large, international, highly geographically distributed media company. It has operations in 70 countries, 38,000 employees, and conducts business 60 languages.Pearson Education provides educational material and learning technologies, test development, processing and scoring services to educational institutions, corporations and professional bodies around the world. Pearson publishs across the ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
'DIVE! Living off America's Waste'Every year in America we throw away 96 billion pounds of food. That's 263 million pounds a day. 11 million pounds an hour. 3,000 pounds a second. Inspired by a curiosity about society's careless habit of sending food straight to landfills, the multi award-winning documentary DIVE! follows filmmaker Jeremy Seifert ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free
Mathematics and Magic Tricks: A Look behind the VeilThe way that a magic trick works can be just as amazing as the trick itself. I will illustrate with performance-level magic, whose workings involve a look at combinatorics, number theory, and higher algebra. This talk is aimed at a broad public audience; no prior 'mathemagical' knowledge required.Speaker: Professor Persi ...
Universal Access to All KnowledgeAs founder and librarian of the storied Internet Archive (deemed impossible by all when he started it in 1996), Brewster Kahle has practical experience behind his universalist vision of access to every bit of knowledge ever created, for all time, ever improving.He will speak to questions such as these:Can we ...
The changing California coast: relationships between climatic variables and coastal vegetation successionThe central California coast is characterized by a precipitation gradient from the relatively wetter and cooler north to the drier and warmer south. The primary objective of this project was to determine if vegetation succession rates are changing for the study area and to identify climatic variables associated with succession, ...
Experience the wildlife and natural beauty that make Younger Lagoon an exceptional local treasure on this docent-led tour to the lagoon and its beach habitat. Learn about the ongoing research and habitat restoration work that help this vital ecosystem thrive. Tour includes a short hike and is best suited for ...
Mr. Akira Tada, Senior General Manager of Global Business Development and Planning, Softbank Mobile, discusses the development of a global mobile application ecosystem with telecom carrier partners, such as Vodafone, Telefonica, KT, SK Telecom, China Mobile, NTT DOCOMO, AT&T, and Verizon. Previously, Mr. Tada was responsible for incubation and value ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
Visual Evidence in Scientific PracticeAn account of visual evidence is provided and its changing roles in different domains of science are examined. The various roles are discussed in the context of molecular biology, biochemistry, and particle physics.Speaker: Otávio Bueno, Department of Philosophy, University of MiamiRoom 217
Experience life After Dark, an evening series exclusively for adults that mixes cocktails, conversation, and playful, innovative science and art events. Not a theater, cabaret, or gallery, After Dark contains aspects of all three. Each evening showcases a different topic-from music to sex to electricity-but all include a cash bar ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $15, Free for Members
Cafe InquiryMeet up with rationalists, skeptics, and freethinkers south of San Francisco. Beers and Books is a social event co-hosted by the Center for Inquiry|San Francisco. We'll meet at Cafe Borrone http://www.cafeboronne.com/ between Kepler's Books and the British Banker's Club! Look for the black balloon.
Designing markets for pollution when damages vary across sources : Evidence from the NOx Budget ProgramExisting and planned emissions trading programs are almost exclusively "emissions-based", meaning that a permit can be used to o¤set a ton of pollution, regardless of where in the program region the ton is emitted. Designing programs in this way presumes that the health and environmental damages resulting from the permitted ...
The California Energy Commission (CEC) Public interest Energy Research (PIER) Program has produced many high efficiency end-use technologies capable of substantially reducing energy use, costs, and environmental impacts. The State Partnership for Energy Efficient Demonstrations (SPEED) Program is one of the key connections to the market for the PIER Program, ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
Go Wild! Kids Nature ProgramDid you know that there is a 30,000 acre wildlife refuge right here in the South Bay? That it is home to over 280 species of birds each year? Join us as we learn more about Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge with stories and fun activities
Modern cosmological observations imply that the first stars in the universe were unique objects that strongly influenced their environment, despite their brief existence. This talk will present the current data and theoretical ideas on these stars, and how future telescopes can detect them.Speaker: Dr. Aparna Venkatesan, University of San Francisco
Where: San MateoCost: Free
Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory Friday Evening ProgramCome to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders of the universe through the observatory's new computer-controlled 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views ...
Where: Los Altos HillsCost:
Saturday, 12/03/11
Ethical Bird Photography for BeginnersHave you ever wanted to photograph that snowy egret stalking its dinner in the shallows? Join docent and published wildlife photographer Mark Bohrer to discover where to find those wary birds, what behavior to look for, and how to ethically capture them on pixels or film. You'll need a lens ...
Get up close to hundreds of wild mushrooms at the 42nd annual Fungus Fair, being held this year at the Lawrence Hall of Science. Our hallways and classrooms will be filled with wild-mushroom displays. Eat edible mushrooms, meet vendors displaying everything from cultivation kits to T-shirts, and watch culinary demonstrations ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free with admission
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Marshlands of DreamsJoin Paul Mueller on a 1-mile walk of the LaRiviere Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. There are opportunities for bird watching as well.
Where: FremontCost: Free
Mad Science: Exploring ElectricityDon't insulate yourself from this electrifying class! Visit the circuit circus and discover its positives and negatives. Apply your knowledge and build your own static tube. Join us for this entertaining and educational program with Mad Science! Attendance is limited to the first 30 children. Grade levels: 3-6.
Where: San JoseCost: Free
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Plight of the Chinook SalmonYears later and many millons of dollars invested, the endangered Chinook population is not recovering in ways hoped. What have scientists recently discovered? Is it something in the water? Find out more and feel free to share information with Ranger Linda.
The little things that make life deliciousThese two ancient foods owe their glory to microscopic magic. Stroll through quaint San Francisco neighborhoods while stopping at parks and shops to explore the role of unseen organisms in creating flavors and textures. Get your hands on some gluten, admire the microbes on ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $50, use discount code 'Schmooze'
Lands End: Explore the Night SkyLands End is one place in San Francisco where we can still enjoy the beauty of the night sky. The National Park Service is committed to protecting natural lightscapes where it can, and the construction of the new visitor facility here reflects that awareness.Please join us for an evening of stargazing ...
What goes on in the Zoo once the rest of the guests leave? You'll find out when your group spends the night at the Oakland Zoo! A variety of themes allows you to visit the rain-forest, be a detective and snoop your way around the Zoo, or even create your ...
Where: OaklandCost: $60
Jazz under the StarsVisit our roof top observatory to see the first quarter moon and Jupiter thru telescopes.Dress warmly and come by anytime between 8 and 10 pm."Jazz" night is Saturday Dec. 3 from 8-10 PM. Free parking in Marie Curie Lot 5.No food or drinks in the observatory. Children are welcome and need to be ...
Get up close to hundreds of wild mushrooms at the 42nd annual Fungus Fair, being held this year at the Lawrence Hall of Science. Our hallways and classrooms will be filled with wild-mushroom displays. Eat edible mushrooms, meet vendors displaying everything from cultivation kits to T-shirts, and watch culinary demonstrations ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free with admission
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Conservation Photography Workshop: Defining Conservation PhotographyConservation photography is a vision of photography that has a long history with a new purpose. A conservation photographer's work begins once they click the shutter. It's what you do with these images that matters as it takes you into the active role of affecting conservation for the natural world. ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $50 General, $40 Members
Stanford'se ARPA-e Sensor and Behavior InitiativeSmart meters and related sensing technologies promise that energy information will change energy use. Poorly designed interactions with energy information, however, jeopardize billion dollar infrastructure investments. The current problems are numerous: sensor information is complex and dull, incentives are inappropriate, informational barriers to action are high, and social context is ...
The Milky Way is both a beautiful sight in the night sky and the nearest galaxy that astronomers can study. It is also home to many of the most spectacular images coming from the Hubble Space Telescope. But in its heart of darkness lurks a black hole with a mass ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $12 General, $10 Seniors, $6 Members
Tuesday, 12/06/11
Richard Alley: The Stephen H. Schneider Award for Outstanding Climate Science CommunicationRichard Alley will receive the first $10,000 Climate One award in honor of the late Stanford climatologist Stephen Schneider.Dr. Alley, host of the PBS documentary "Earth: The Operators Manual," once testified before Congress using his bald head to illustrate ice age cycles and recorded a video explaining geoscience while strumming ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $20 standard, $12 members, $7 students
Pacific Energy Center: 20 Years of Educating and Serving Building ProfessionalsJoin us for a "thank you" celebration where invited speakers will discuss California energy efficiency leadership, the evolving workforce education and training environment, and how the PEC has helped to increase customer knowledge and reduce building energy use. RSVP online.
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free
San Francisco Math Circle Teachers' Circle - December MeetingIn a new program, just for teachers, SFMC is sponsoring monthly real-food dinners with a special Math Circle speaker. Come to the meeting, eat delicious food, and investigate the beautiful world of mathematics with other teachers! The December Teachers' Circle will be led by Tom Davis. Tom Davis's main interest ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free if you RSVP
A Debate: Who Was the Hobbit? Found on an obscure island, the tiny, small-brained, big-footed Homo floresiensis, or "the hobbit", is unlike any other discovery. Where did this being come from, and who are its ancestors? In this light-hearted debate, two eminent biological anthropologists, Dr. Robert Martin of Chicago's Field Museum, and Ian Tattersall of the ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: General Admission: $15 / Members and Seniors: $12
Digital OverloadDebate continues unabated over the extent to which connectivity is changing the quality of our relationships and reshaping our communities. Now there are major concerns about how it's changing our brains. Pulitzer Prize winning NYT tech reporter Matt Richtel, Wired's Steven Levy (In the Plex), and Rabbi Joshua Strulowitz join ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $20-$25 General, $17-$22 Members, $10 Students
Kepler's Quest for New Worlds Public Talks - SOLD OUTCatching Shadows: Kepler's Quest for New WorldsHumankind's speculation about the existence of other worlds like our own turned into a veritable quest with the launch of NASA's Kepler spacecraft in March 2009. The mission is designed to survey a slice of the Milky Way to identify planets orbiting other stars. ...
Where: Menlo ParkCost: Purchase of book or $10 gift card
Two Session Climate Action Workshop Series Join the Ecology Center and a small group of community members as we work to minimize our greenhouse gas emissions and maximize our sense of community In this two-session series, you will: -Receive information and ideas for taking action to reduce your ecological footprint, facilitate community building, and drive political ...
Pushing the Limits of Computational ImagingComputational imaging uses unconventional optics to capture a coded image, and an appropriate algorithm to decode the captured image. This approach of manipulating images before there are recorded and processing recorded images before they are presented has three key benefits.First, it enables us to implement imaging functionalities that would be ...
Sip on a glow-in-the-dark Tech-tini from our no-host bar as you enjoy the music of DJ Curtis & the CD Boys.Be among the first to see drink-making innovations like the B.A.R. Tender and Evil Mad Scientist's Drink Making Unit 2.0!Check out presentations by local inventors like Acme Art, Cornfield Electronics, ...
Who lives beneath the Golden Gate Bridge? Hear from the group who spent the spring of 2011 surveying this local habitat, and learn how you can participate in local habitat restoration.RSVP via email or phone (see below)
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
December LASER Event 6:45pm-7:00pm: Socializing/networking.* 7:00-7:25: Shona Kitchen (San Jose State Univ's CADRE) on "Hyper-functional Landscapes and Art"Airports are a work of art in themselves; an aesthetic framework for routing people through the microcosm of airline travel. Airports have what one might call a "captured" audience, creating a perfect place for art to ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
The Search for Habitable Exoplanets in the Kepler Era and Beyond For centuries people have wondered, "Are we alone?" With hundreds of planets now known to orbit other stars, we are finally able to begin answering the ancient questions, "Do other Earths exist? Are they common? Do any have signs of life? NASA's Kepler space telescope will soon tell us the ...
Maggi Kelly studies the drivers, consequences and spatial patterning of environmental change across California's spatially complex, socially diverse and dynamic landscapes. The systems she focuses on vary in type and scale, and include Sierra Nevada forests, San Francisco Bay wetlands, the California delta, and urban neighborhoods; but all of them ...
Where: AlbanyCost: Free
3D Technology & Innovation at AutodeskMarin Science Seminar for Teens, Educators & their Families presents:Come hear Gonzalo Martinez, Director of the Strategic Research Office of the CTO at Autodesk talk about the exciting technological innovations coming out of this local company. From CAD/CAM programs to 3-D printing to "augmented reality", Autodesk continues to trail blaze ...
The Social Apps Lab focuses on creating mobile applications that use elements of gameplay to motivate citizen learning, civic action, and crowdsourced solutions for social problems. The Digital We examines the premises, prospects, and projects of this kind of social media production through a day of workshops and public discussions. ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
The Psychology of Meditative Thinking: A Practical and Philosophical Approach to Wellness in Integrative MedicineYou will learn how mindfulness meditation-based interventions are impacting healthcare and society. We will discuss both the philosophical and practical aspects, as well as how we can cultivate and move towards a psychology of meditative thinking. This presentation will include an experiential session and is designed for professionals, mindfulness-based enthusiasts ...
Among the Great Apes tells the story of Suzi Eszterhas's adventures photographing chimps, gorillas and orangutans across the wild landscapes of Africa and Asia. Guided by her images, this talk will highlight some of the latest findings by primatologists and the challenges we face in conserving the world's remaining populations ...
Go behind the scenes at Long Marine Lab. Learn about the work of scientists and their studies of dolphins, seals, sea lions, and whales. Tour is best suited for adults and children over 10 years of age. Space limited, free with admission. Reservations required: (831) 459-3800.
hMr. Tadashi Onodera, Chairman of KDDI Corporation, one of Japan's leading telecommunications firms, examines future possibilities for mobile Internet services while reflecting on lessons learned from the 3-11, 2011, triple disaster -- earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster -- that hit Japan. Japan's mobile Internet market has been one of the ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
Compassion and Altruism from an Integrated Evolutionary PerspectiveSpeaker: David Sloane-Wilsonis an evolutionist who studies all aspects of humanity in addition to the biological world. He manages a number of programs designed to expand the influence of evolutionary theory in higher education (EvoS), public policy (The Evolution Institute), community-based research (The Binghamton Neighborhood Project), and religion (Evolutionary Religious ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
On Air, Water, and IceSophie Webb will give a short talk at 7 PM about her three children's books: "Far from Shore", "My Season With Penguins", and "Looking for Seabirds", followed by an art opening featuring the original water color illustrations from the books, and book signing. For sale for all ages is her ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: FREE
Tracking Ongoing Kilauea Eruptions -- fissures...fountains...and flowsSpectacular Kilauea eruptions have produced a summit lava lake, roiling for several years, and a flank eruption recently sending lava flows downslope to threaten residential areas How do USGS scientists monitor and track subsurface molten rock movement, measure the state of volcanic unrest, and forecast eruptions? Hawaiian volcano "plumbing systems" ...
SIGGRAPH 2011 Electronic Theater (CG Animation & VFX)Silicon Valley ACM SIGGRAPH will be showing the DVD of animations and visual effects from SIGGRAPH 2011 Electronic Theater, which is a slightly different set from what was shown at the conference.A trailer for the conference's Electronic Theater can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NGI7X717NwBerkeley Auditorium in Building 5Silicon Valley ACM SIGGRAPH continues its 2011-2012 ...
Where: Santa ClaraCost: $5 non-members, Free students and members
What emotional state are you in about global warming? Shock, denial, anger, depression… or acceptance and readiness for action?Bring a brown bag lunch and help move through the "grieving process" and toward action.Meet Ranger Will Elder at the Temporary Visitors Station. Reservations required by calling (415) 561-4323.
Discovering The Farallones Marine SanctuaryOur speaker, Peter Winch, is the Visitor Center Naturalist for the Farallones Marine Sanctuary and assists with running the visitor center and its educational program. He has a BS in Environmental Science from Plymouth University, England, and has a background as a scientist and as an educator. He has studied ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: $2 Donation
The Status of SETI in 2011Dr. Frank Drake, the scientist who pioneered the search for intelligent life in the universe, will give a rare public lecture to a meeting of the Peninsula Astronomical Society. The talk is free and open to the public, but parking on campus costs $2.00. Parking Lot 5 is closest to ...
Where: Los AltosCost: $2 Parking
Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory Friday Evening ProgramCome to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders of the universe through the observatory's new computer-controlled 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views ...
Where: Los Altos HillsCost:
Saturday, 12/10/11
Total Lunar EclipseGet up early and come to Chabot to catch the last Total Lunar Eclipse until the year 2014! Our Observatory Deck will be open for anyone who would like to enjoy the spectacle in good company. Chabot staff and volunteers will be on hand to talk about the eclipse as ...
Where: OaklandCost: Free
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Gold Fever: How the Gold Rush Forever Changed SF BayIn 1848 gold was discovered in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, luring people by the thousands to California. Join Ranger Tammi to find out how this event forever changed San Francisco Bay.
Where: SausalitoCost: Free
BioBlitz!Join us for the 24-hour BioBlitz, a species survey of every living thing at the refuge! We will organize the natural history talents of local scientists, naturalists, and YOU to document the biodiversity present at the Environmental Education Center in Alviso. Come for guided programs like: fish surveys, early morning ...
Where: AlvisoCost: Free
Low Tide WalksJoin Marine Science Institute's ever popular guided low tide walks at Pillar Point in Half Moon Bay. It's been many moons since the tides have alligned to make a good exploration possible, now the season is back for great exploring!We'll meet up promptly in the parking lot, and head out to ...
Where: Half Moon BayCost: $20 General, $10 Members
Science on Saturday Lecture: All About SOFIAHave you ever wanted to know why we use infrared astronomy? Join us in the NASA Ames Exploration Center on December 10th at 2:00 pm for a lecture and demonstration about infrared astronomy. SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy) is one of NASA's most recent missions that uses this section ...
Where: Mountain ViewCost: Free
Following Elephant SealsDaniel Costa, UC Santa CruzMonterey Bay is one of the most diverse regions in the world for both marine mammals and seabirds. Using electronic tags, the Tagging of Pacific Predators program has been monitoring the movements of California sea lions, northern elephant seals, blue and humpback whales, Laysan and black-footed ...
Where: Pacific GroveCost: free to Museum Members; $5 for the general public
Mad Science: Magnificent MagnetsInvestigate the powers and daily uses of magnets. Explore magnetic fields and their relative strengths and properties. Take home your own floating magnets. Join us for this entertaining and educational program with Mad Science! Attendance is limited to the first 30 children. Grades: K-2.
BioBlitz!Join us for the 24-hour BioBlitz, a species survey of every living thing at the refuge! We will organize the natural history talents of local scientists, naturalists, and YOU to document the biodiversity present at the Environmental Education Center in Alviso. Come for guided programs like: fish surveys, early morning ...
Where: AlvisoCost: Free
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Duck WalkThousands of ducks winter in the San Francisco Bay every year. Hear a short lecture on duck identification. Then we'll head out on the trail to try your new skills. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow. Dress warmly. Led by Carmen Minch.
Where: FremontCost: Free
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Civilizations Beyond Earth by Douglas VakochExploratorium Presents Douglas Vakoch Author of Civilizations Beyond EarthOn Sunday, December 11, at 2pm join us at the Exploratorium for a talk by author and psychologist Douglas Vakoch, Director of the Interstellar Message Composition for the SETI Institute. Moderating the conversation will be Claire Pillsbury, the Exploratorium's Osher Fellowship Program ...
Where: San FranciscoCost:
The Salt Marshes: Then and NowApproximately 85% of San Francisco Bay's wetlands have disappeared over the last 200 years due to industry and development, impacting the wildlife that lived in and around them. Some of the plants and animals have made a comeback. Learn the history of the salt marshes and the plant and animal ...
Experience the wildlife and natural beauty that make Younger Lagoon an exceptional local treasure on this docent-led tour to the lagoon and its beach habitat. Learn about the ongoing research and habitat restoration work that help this vital ecosystem thrive. Tour includes a short hike and is best suited for ...
Where: Santa CruzCost: Free with admission
'Reinventing Fire'Amory Lovins is widely considered among the world's leading authorities on energy especially its efficient use and sustainable supply and is a fertile innovator in integrative design. As Chairman and Chief Scientist of the Rocky Mountain Institute, Lovins pioneered the concept of "soft energy paths" involving efficient energy use, diverse ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
Preview Special: The Science of (Holiday) Light Walking TourThis is the preview "performance" of our seasonal science walking tour, with a special price of $10.The Science of (Holiday) LightA seasonal stroll for inquisitive soulsFirst night preview, Dec. 11Join us on this festive trek and gain a new appreciation for some of the city's most spectacular light displays. We'll ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $10
Monday, 12/12/11
Accepting the Absurd: How Skepticism is Revealing the Nature of the UniverseOur current understanding of the universe incorporates ideas that seem absurd: Space is expanding and accelerating. Most of the "stuff" of the universe isn't the protons and neutrons that a generation was taught to believe.Why does science take these things seriously? This talk will explain the evidence and thought process ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free
Tuesday, 12/13/11
Bugs, Bugs, BugsThe Open Space Authority presents Docent Teri and her enthusiasm for all things creepy and crawly. Come learn the ant secret handshake or discover if bees have their own version of dancing GPS! Bring your questions and your sense of adventure and come have some fun! Everyone welcome.
Where: San JoseCost: Free
Wild WeatherMassive blizzards are slamming the East Coast and epic droughts are parching the Southwest. Though scientists are careful to say no single storm can be attributed to climate change, their models indicate more droughts, floods and other extremes are headed our way. How can farmers, companies and governments manage weather ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $20 General, $12 Memers, $7 Students
Two Session Climate Action Workshop SeriesJoin the Ecology Center and a small group of community members as we work to minimize our greenhouse gas emissions and maximize our sense of community In this two-session series, you will: -Receive information and ideas for taking action to reduce your ecological footprint, facilitate community building, and drive political ...
The public outpouring following the death of Steve Jobs attests to the impact this creative genius had on the world. In the only biography authorized by Jobs himself, Walter Isaacson tells the riveting story of his roller-coaster life and searingly intense personality of the creative entrepreneur. Isaacson, CEO of the ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $20-25 General, $17-22 Members
Resonances and the Angular Momentum of the Earth-Moon SystemThe prevailing theory for the formation of the Moon is a giant collision between proto-Earth and a Mars-sized protoplanet, with the Moon being mainly made from the impactor's material. It is now known that the composition of the Moon is too similar to Earth's mantle to be derived from the ...
Where: Mountain ViewCost: Free
A Night of Chemistry CarolsWind down 2011, the International Year of Chemistry with a sensational seasonal night of Chemistry carols. Bring your lab coats, goggles and good walking shoes to bring singing science to the community and give the tourists something to write home about.The Chemistry Teacher is Coming to TownHe sees you when ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: Bring songs
The Science of (Holiday) Light Walking TourThe Science of (Holiday) LightA seasonal stroll for inquisitive soulsThree nights/weekDec. 14, 16, 21, 23, 24, 25, 28, 30First night preview, Dec. 11Join us on this festive trek and gain a new appreciation for some ofthe city's most spectacular light displays. We'll stroll along SanFrancisco stairways, side streets, and scenic ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $25 adults, $15 youth
Skeptalk: Can You Feel the Science?!?The Bay Area Skeptics present Dr. Kirsten Sanford (aka Dr. Kiki of the "This Week in Science" podcast) on science, sensationalism, and the media. The audience will join Dr. Kiki in exploring: "Does sensationalism hurt or help the perception of science?" Please come!
Peak Oil or Climate Emergency? We know we're in Big Trouble. But What Kind Exactly? Dave Room, of Bay Localize, will moderate a debate between Richard Heinberg, Senior Fellow-in-Residence, Post Carbon Institute, peak oil theorist & author of the new book The End of Growth and Earth Island's Tom Athanasiou, director of Eco-Equity, global climate justice researcher, & author of Divided Planet: The Ecology of ...
Where: BerkeleyCost:
Friday, 12/16/11
The Science of (Holiday) Light Walking TourThe Science of (Holiday) LightA seasonal stroll for inquisitive soulsThree nights/weekDec. 14, 16, 21, 23, 24, 25, 28, 30First night preview, Dec. 11Join us on this festive trek and gain a new appreciation for some ofthe city's most spectacular light displays. We'll stroll along SanFrancisco stairways, side streets, and scenic ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $25 adults, $15 youth
NightSchool: Home EcAt NightSchool, students of life can explore, imagine, create and mingle in an incredibly inspiring and magical setting. Themes and activities reflect current events, favorite pastimes and playful experiences, each celebrating the unique, resourceful and exciting community of the East Bay.Get back to school and unleash your inner nerd, spark ...
Where: OaklandCost: $15 General, $5 Members
Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory Friday Evening ProgramCome to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders of the universe through the observatory's new computer-controlled 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views ...
Where: Los Altos HillsCost:
Saturday, 12/17/11
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Explorables: Science You Can Play WithMess around with everyday materials to create toys and other tools for exploring the world around us. Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, these drop-in workshops mix classic activities with open-ended investigations, encouraging participants to follow their hunches to aha moments of scientific insight. All materials provided; take what ...
The last decade of cosmological observations tells us that 95% of the energy density in the universe is dark: the combination of about 25% of dark matter, whose nature is unknown and 70% of an even more mysterious dark energy. Ordinary matter only represents 5% of the energy budget. I ...
Saturday Night StargazingSee the Moon, Planets, Stars, Galaxies and More* Stargaze through astronomical telescopes* Ask questions and talk with amateur astronomers* Learn how to use a star map to find constellations* Share in the wonder of the universe with your friendsStargazing is always weather permitting-be sure to dress warmly. Foggy and overcast ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
SMCAS Star Party Come out and bring the kids for a mind expanding look at the universe.Setup of telescopes begins around sunset, with observations beginning about 1 hour later.
Just like people, there are "snowbirds" in the avian world and the Marin Headlands is one of the spots to which they flock during winter. Join docent Jane Haley on an easy walk to discover our winter residents and visitors.Meet at Marin Headlands Visitor Center. Bring field guides and binoculars.Appropriate for ...
Where: SausalitoCost: Free
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Creek Walks to see spawning Coho SalmonExplore the Lagunitas Creek watershed with SPAWN's experienced naturalist on a quest to see the endangered coho salmon.Advanced registration required at the event web link below.Additional details and exact meeting location provided via email after you register.
Where: Cost: Free
Dr. Keith Devlin - The Birth of Algebra Dr. Keith Devlin - The Birth of Algebra Sunday, December 18, 2:00 p.m. Followed by conversation with Angie Coiro.Inside Islamic Science: Dialogues and DiscussionsModerated by Angie CoiroThe events are moderated by acclaimed interviewer Angie Coiro.Each interview, panel discussion, or lecture offers constructive dialogue on culture, religion, knowledge and beliefs, sparked ...
Where: San JoseCost:
Rise of Coyote Hills…It's about time Join Roy Sasai on a hike to learn about and view the inner core of Coyote Hills. What forces created this magnificent hill along the bay? What forces continue to move and shape the vista we see? What forces made a huge portion of Coyote Hills disappear? We will meet ...
Where: FremontCost: Free
The Science of (Holiday) Light Walking TourThe Science of (Holiday) LightA seasonal stroll for inquisitive soulsThree nights/weekDec. 14, 16, 21, 23, 24, 25, 28, 30First night preview, Dec. 11Join us on this festive trek and gain a new appreciation for some ofthe city's most spectacular light displays. We'll stroll along SanFrancisco stairways, side streets, and scenic ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $25 adults, $15 youth
Wednesday, 12/21/11
Free Wednesday at Cal AcademyFree admission is available to visitors on the third Wednesday of every month, through the generosity of The Bernard Osher Foundation. Admission is on a first come, first served basis, and early arrival is recommended due to the likelihood of high demand. Also, please note that final entry to the ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free
The Science of (Holiday) Light Walking TourThe Science of (Holiday) LightA seasonal stroll for inquisitive soulsThree nights/weekDec. 14, 16, 21, 23, 24, 25, 28, 30First night preview, Dec. 11Join us on this festive trek and gain a new appreciation for some ofthe city's most spectacular light displays. We'll stroll along SanFrancisco stairways, side streets, and scenic ...
Erick Young, a widely recognized authority on infrared astronomy, is Science Mission Operations Director for SOFIA. Most recently, Young was responsible for developing the far-infrared detector arrays on the Spitzer Space Telescope's Multiband Imaging Photometer for Spitzer (MIPS). The instrument provided both imaging and spectroscopic data at far-infrared wavelengths. Speaker: ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free
'Life in Cold Blood Episode I: The Cold Blooded Truth'This first Episode discusses the keys to success of reptiles and amphibians, looking at thermoregulation, parental care and the time-scales on which reptiles operate. From the series by David Attenborough.Optional potluck refreshments at 6:30.
Where: OaklandCost: $5 donation
Friday, 12/23/11
The Science of (Holiday) Light Walking TourThe Science of (Holiday) LightA seasonal stroll for inquisitive soulsThree nights/weekDec. 14, 16, 21, 23, 24, 25, 28, 30First night preview, Dec. 11Join us on this festive trek and gain a new appreciation for some ofthe city's most spectacular light displays. We'll stroll along SanFrancisco stairways, side streets, and scenic ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $25 adults, $15 youth
Come to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory Friday Evening ProgramCome to Foothill Observatory and join us in the exploration of our Universe!Foothill Observatory is open for public viewing every clear Friday evening from 9:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Visitors can view the wonders of the universe through the observatory's new computer-controlled 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. Views ...
Where: Los Altos HillsCost:
Saturday, 12/24/11
SMCAS Star Party Come out and bring the kids for a mind expanding look at the universe.Setup of telescopes begins around sunset, with observations beginning about 1 hour later.
