Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Science After Dark at Discovery Place: Adults-Only Series Launches Dec. 4

Don't be afraid of the dark! Discovery Place will shine the light on inquiry and ideas during a new series of "social" science for adults only. Science After Dark events will explore contemporary topics using the lens of science and the hands of the participants. Part intrigue and part fun, Science After Dark offers the intellectually curious adult crowd a new mix of diverse learning opportunities in a relaxed social atmosphere.

"The spirit of scientific inquiry is in each of us," said Robert Corbin, vice president, Learning Experiences, Discovery Place. "Even as adults, we hunger to know more about the how and why of the world we live in. Any time we get the chance to dabble and explore, even as grown-ups, we satisfy our innate curiosity and expand our common understanding."

Science After Dark topics will include:
· Game Night (December 4, 2012): Join Spandex City, Queen City Chess Club, UNCC and Merely Players to explore some favorite pastimes such as video games, board games, trivia and more, from an adult point of view, and discover the science behind playing around. (6:00–8:00 p.m.)
· Improv (January 12, 2013): Two premier Charlotte improv groups, the Chuckleheads and Synergismo, will present a night of laughter, creativity and fun. Attendees will take part in improv exercises and games. (6:00–9:00 p.m.)
· The Wonder of Food & Drink (February 5, 2013): An evening of presentations will focus on sustainability, plus information on molecular gastronomy and brewing science. (6:00–9:00 p.m.)
· NanoScience and Society (March 5, 2013): Nanotechnology is creating a dizzying array of new materials and manufacturing possibilities which will profoundly impact our economy, environment and society. Join Thomas Schmedake, Ph.D., of UNCC's chemistry department and other educators to discuss the latest in the nanotechnology and what it holds for the future. (6:00–9:00 p.m.)
· Astronomy (April 17, 2013): Spend an evening with Discovery Place and Charlotte Amateur Astronomers Club observing stars and planets. The evening will include an astronomy talk by Jim Craig, director of the James H. Lynn Planetarium at Schiele Museum of Natural History.(7:30–9:30 p.m.)

All Science After Dark events will be held at Discovery Place after the Museum closes to the public and will include light snacks and beverages featuring various North Carolina breweries. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online by calling 704.372.6261 x300. Admission is $5 per person in advance or $10 at the door. Parking is available in the Museum's Parking Deck; the Carol Grotnes Belk Deck located at Church and Sixth Streets. For additional information about the series or any individual Science After Dark event, please call 704.372.6261 x300 or email info@discoveryplace.org.

About Discovery Place
One of the top hands-on science museums in the nation, Discovery Place provides ever-changing, entertaining facilities that engage people in the active exploration of science and nature. The Museum brings relevant, contemporary science to life through groundbreaking exhibitions, interactive educational programming and hands-on activities. Nearly a half-million people from all over the United States engage with Discovery Place and its IMAX®Dome Theatre each year.

Discovery Place is located in uptown Charlotte at 301 N. Tryon Street. Convenient parking is available in the Museum's parking deck – the Carol Grotnes Belk Complex – at the corner of Sixth and Church Streets. For more information about Discovery Place, call 704.372.6261 x300, visitdiscoveryplace.org or connect with Discovery Place on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Discovery Place Inc. owns and operates Discovery Place, Charlotte Nature Museum and Discovery Place KIDS and is supported, in part, with funding from the Arts & Science Council.