Western Arctic: Adventures in AlaskaThe Sierra Club invites you to a special event: Western Arctic: Adventures in AlaskaA presentation by Debbie S. Miller, noted naturalist and author of the book Midnight Wilderness: Journeys in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.Ms. Miller will draw you into her three-year journey with a team of photographers that included hiking ...
Where: Redwood CityCost:
Architecting Android AppsAndroid brings to the table a whole new set of building blocks. Each has its own unique properties. Building an app is mashing them together in a unique way. Often, there are multiple approaches to seemingly the same result. Knowing what component to use when, is often a balance of ...
Where: San JoseCost: Free
The First Sources of Light in the Universe Primordial stars, the first stars in the early universe, are unique objects that could have strongly influenced their environment despite their brief existence. These objects can be identified through their characteristic ionizing properties and the elements created by their supernovae. By combining these two signatures with a variety of current ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $12 General, $6 Members, $10 Seniors
Tuesday, 05/08/12
Passive and Low Energy Architecture: The Israeli Approach Within the Sustainable Building StandardCurrent environmental assessment methods commonly use a simple 'point hunting' approach. As a result, developers and design teams try to obtain "cheap and easy points". Consequently, they avoid choosing "Energy points". Additionally, "Energy points" are mainly achieved by improving the mechanical, electrical and hot water systems, since they are easier ...
Where: BerkeleyCost: Free
Wednesday, 05/09/12
Putting Water Online - CANCELLEDThe seminar will feature Prof. Alexandre Bayen presenting the results of the Floating Sensor Network project, including the results of the day's experiment in Walnut Grove.On May 9, 2012, the Floating Sensor Network team will conduct a major experiment in Walnut Grove, CA. We will launch the complete 100-unit floating ...
A different perspective on the Lytro light field cameraLytro, Inc.has begun shipping the first consumer camera that captures 4-D light field pictures, rather than 2-D images. In this talk the camera and its picture-processing system are explored in the context of computer graphics and vision science, emphasizing parallax as a unifying principle for insight into their operation.Gallery of ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
Passive Solar ArchitectureThe past few decades has seen a resurrection in buildings that work with their environment. Passive solar design is the most effective, healthiest and lowest-cost method to provide thermal comfort in any climate. This class will give an introduction to the physics of passive solar design, its historical use in a ...
Where: San RafaelCost: $10 Members advance, $15 at door for all
Wolf Recovery in the Western U.S.: A Primer for California The Sierra Club is excited to host a presentation by Carter Niemeyer, a respected Wildlife Society certified biologist:Wolf Recovery in the Western U.S.: A Primer for California Mr. Niemeyer is author of the 2010 book "Wolfer" and he is the former head of wolf recovery for US Fish & Wildlife ...
Where: Redwood CityCost:
Cell Phone Upside the Head: Health Effects of Electromagnetic RadiationWhat are the health effects of electromagnetic (EM) radiation? After exploring the fundamental (and fun) physics of electric and magnetic fields, we will see just what EM waves are. Then we'll consider how this radiation can, and might, and cannot disrupt the mechanisms of the body. Finally, we'll examine the ...
It is often said that mathematics is a universal language that we could use to make contact with another intelligence. But is that really the case? Or is this just a disguised version of anthropocentrism?Speaker: Dr Keith Devlin has written 31 mathematics books and over 80 published research articles. He ...
Where: Mountain ViewCost: Free
From the UNIVAC to Web 2.0: Politics, Computers and the Making of a 21st Century PresidencyDateline: November 4, 1952: UNIVAC Predicts an Eisenhower Win! Sixty years ago this November, public opinion polls gave the 1952 Presidential election to Adlai Stevenson. UNIVAC, star of CBS' election coverage (along with a new anchor, Walter Cronkite), predicted an Eisenhower landslide. UNIVAC was right. The computer's TV debut captivated ...
How the Tides Work for You by Kame RichardsCruisers, racers, and recreational boaters will see and learn how the waters move on San Francisco Bay. Reservations a must, email jimtantillo@comcast.net or phone 408-263-7877.
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. Reservations required: (831) 459-3800.
Models of real-world systems are widely used in science. It is often suggested that these models are tested or confirmed when their results are compared with observational data. I contend that this way of thinking is misguided; what we can sensibly aim to test or confirm via such comparisons are ...
In 1962 the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (now the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory) began with the Congressional authorization of its two mile long linear accelerator, the first $100 million science project. The science mission was the study of the interaction of high energy electron with matter, a study that had ...
Where: Menlo ParkCost: Free
Ben Kacyra: Capturing Ancient Wonders in 3DAncient monuments give us clues to astonishing past civilizations, but they're under threat from pollution, war and neglect. Kacyra invented a groundbreaking 3D laser scanning system and is using his invention to scan and preserve the world's heritage in archival detail.Ben Kacyr's nonprofit organization, CyArk, is now launching the 500 ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $20 General, $8 members, $7 Students
Birds of a Feather NightlifeClaw, peck or fly your way to NightLife for a live concert by Birds & Batteries, and a variety of fun activities in honor of International Migratory Bird Week. Artist and comedian Michael Capozzola and his cartoonist companions will transform you into bird-version of yourself in minutes. Channel your inner ...
Where: San FranciscoCost: $12 General, $10 Members
2012: The Science Of The Maya ApocalypseA mistaken interpretation of a calendar used by the ancient Maya of Mesoamerica has led to a popular notion that they predicted the end of the world on December 21st, 2012. Doomsday enthusiasts have imagined a whole host of possible grand finales for the human race, many of which are ...
Travel Medicine: What You Should Know Before You GoInternational travel brings with it the excitement of new experiences, cultures and unfortunately sometimes, new diseases. Before you embark on the trip of your dreams, find out about what you can do to travel safely and return home well. This talk will cover vaccinations prior to travel, medicines that you ...
Where: StanfordCost: Free
Mushrooms of MexicoAlan Rockefeller recently returned from four months of collecting in Mexico with extensive field work in the states of Jalisco, Colima, Michoacan, District Federal, Puebla, Veracruz and Oaxaca. His presentation, "Mushrooms of Mexico," includes many images of Mexican mushrooms which Alan has taken over the past five years. The talk ...
Come learn about what trees are naturally adapted to and what we subject them to in our biologically depauperate urban environment. This talk will change the way you view the trees of San Francisco!Speaker: Ted Kipping
Where: San FranciscoCost: Free
Moraga Library Astronomy Program Please join Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society for a May 10th astronomy program at the Moraga Library from 8-10 PM. See stars, nebula, galaxies, clusters, the moon and planets through member telescopes. Bring kids, binoculars, warm clothes (temperature can drop), snacks, water. No need for a flashlight but if you must bring ...
Where: MoragaCost: Free
Friday, 05/11/12
National Public Gardens DayCome celebrate National Public Gardens Day with UCBG! National Public Gardens Day is a celebration of America's public gardens and their important role in promoting environmental stewardship and awareness, plant and water conservation and education. Better Homes and Gardens magazine offers BHG readers a free admission coupon for two to ...
Enjoy an entertaining evening with Bill Nye the Climate Guy - scientist, engineer, comedian, author, and inventor, and a man with a mission: to help foster a scientifically literate society and to help people everywhere understand and appreciate the science that makes our world work. And dare we say - ...
Where: OaklandCost: $25.50
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:
Houge Park Start PartyMeet with members of San Jose Astronomical Society for a Star Party, weather permitting.
Where: San JoseCost: Free
Saturday, 05/12/12
Celebrate International Migratory Bird Day with PRBO at Redwood CreekJoin PRBO biologists on this very important day for international migratory birds as we explore the riparian habitat, check mist-nets for songbirds and observe biologists band and release songbirds. We will keep our eyes and ears out for signs of nesting, and discuss how and why we monitor nesting songbirds. ...
Where: Mill ValleyCost: $10 Donation, Free for members
Discover the Wondrous World of Aquatic InsectsHave fun discovering the ways of water insects with insect expert Frederique Lavoipierre. Learn about aquatic insects then head to Pepperwood's streams and ponds to look for living examples of the fascinating adaptations insects have to the watery realm. Register online at brownpapertickets.com and search for "Pepperwood."Speaker: Frederique Lavoipierre coordinates the ...
Where: Santa RosaCost: $10 adults, $5 children
Don't get Lost in the Woods-Learn map Reading, GPS Basics at PepperwoodMorgan Kennedy, Pepperwood's mapping expert will lead a class on reading maps and using GPS for navigation of natural places. Register online at brownpapertickets.com and search for "Pepperwood." This fun interactive class will include map fundamentals of terrain, contours, symbols, map projections, coordinate systems, and scaling. Participants will learn waypoint collection, ...
Where: Santa RosaCost: $20
Insect FairWalking sticks, silkworms and hissing cockroaches will be there, so why not you? At this family-oriented hands-on affair children and adults get an up-close look at live insects, spiders, scorpions, millipedes and more. YSI instructors and volunteers will be on hand to answer your questions and help you get hands-on. ...
Where: SaratogaCost: Park fee $6. Donation requested
Science in the City (Online Event)WhenWednesday, June 13, 2012CostFree Online Media Series Urban environments such as San Francisco are full of intriguing natural and human-made phenomena. Why is our "summer" in May and September? Where does sewage go? Explore urban engineering, ecology, optics, waves, geology, architecture, weather, and more.Science in the ...
Where: San FranciscoCost:
SOUTH BAY BIRD FEST!Join us for a day of exploration as we celebrate our feathered friends with guided walks, games, crafts, face painting, and various other hands on activities. Explore avian antics in a LIVE BIRD SHOW showcasing bird behavior! Get up close and personal with real refuge birds and their habitats on the Flying Frenzy Expedition ...
Where: AlvisoCost: Free
How the Tides Work for You by Kame RichardsCruisers, racers, and recreational boaters will see and learn how the waters move on San Francisco Bay. Reservations a must, email jimtantillo@comcast.net or phone 408-263-7877.
"River in Ruin: The Story of the Carmel River" is a precise weaving of water history -- local and larger -- and a natural, social, and environmental narrative of the Carmel River. March traces the river's misuse from 1879 and details how ever more successful promotions of the Monterey Peninsula ...
Where: Pacific GroveCost: Free with admission
For Goodness SnakesThis one-of-a-kind educational experience will introduce you to the fascinating world of reptiles. Come enjoy the opportunity to hold and interact with their docile animals.
Mickey Hart Performance with Exploratorium's Golden Gate BridgeWhenSunday, May 27, 2012WhereGolden Gate Bridge On Memorial Day weekend, the Golden Gate Bridge's 75th birthday celebration will include a unique performance: Legendary Bay Area musician Mickey Hart will be playing a giant replica of the bridge on May 27th.Watch a preview of Mickey ...
The Redwood Creek Restoration at Muir Beach improves wildlife habitat and the creek and wetlands ecosystem.Learn about the history and current status of coho salmon in Redwood Creek on this easy, two-mile walk around the restoration site.Bring water and a light snack; wear sturdy shoes with good treads.RSVP by calling ...
Where: Muir BeachCost: Free
Walk Amongst the RedwoodsExplore the redwood forest plants, trees and wildlife on a 4-mile hike with a Ranger on the trails above Villa Montalvo. Meet at parking lot #4 with sturdy hiking shoes, water, and layered clothing. (408) 356-2729
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 ...
