May 2017: Programs and Events at the California Academy of Sciences

Learn about ancient flying creatures, explore human diversity, and encounter the first full solar eclipse since

April 16th, 8:42 AM

New Exhibit! Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs Opening May 19, 2017 For as long as dinosaurs walked the Earth, ancient flying animals called pterosaurs ruled the skies. Not classified as birds, bats, or dinosaurs—these extraordinary winged reptiles adapted for life in the air and were the first vertebrates to evolve powered flight. In this revealing new exhibit, explore rare fossils and discover the amazing diversity and evolution of these ancient creatures. Walk beneath a life-size model of the largest animal to ever navigate the skies and marvel at its colossal size. View a fabulous array of real pterosaur skulls alongside colorful illustrations of head crests. “Soar” through the sky and virtual prehistoric landscapes within a “Fly like a Pterosaur” interactive. Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (www.amnh.org).

Penguins + Pajamas Sleepover Friday May 5 Ages 5-17, with adult chaperone Why count sheep when you can count geckos and butterflies? Sleepovers let you explore the Academy after-hours, then snuggle up in your pajamas and sleeping bags at a location of your choice. Includes a bedtime story and snack, plus breakfast and Academy admission the following day. $89 members, $109 non-members. Registration required. Visit calacademy.org/sleepovers for program details and registration.

Leakey Lecture Humankind: How Biology and Geography Shape Human Diversity Tuesday May 9 | 7 pm African Hall Dr. Alexander Harcourt, Professor Emeritus of Anthropology, University of California, Davis Humanity’s expansion around the world from our African origins is astounding. How did we spread across the globe? Why do people from different regions vary? Is our diversity a function of geography, adaptation, or both? Join anthropologist Dr. Alexander Harcourt as he explores how humanity’s interaction with the environment can explain why we differ biologically and culturally from one region of the world to another. Leakey Lectures are presented in partnership with the Leakey Foundation. Reservations required. $12 Academy members, Leakey Foundation members and seniors; $15 non-members. Seating is limited.

Benjamin Dean Astronomy Lecture The Great American Eclipse Monday May 1 | 7:30 pm Morrison Planetarium Dr. Laura Peticolas, Space Science Laboratory, UC Berkeley Mark your calendars for August 21, 2017 for the first total solar eclipse in the US in almost 100 years! This monumental astronomical event will bring people from around the world to the United States to experience and to perform scientific research experiences, while also creating a motivation for communities throughout the U.S. to understand simple orbital dynamics and the practices of astronomical research. Dr. Peticolas will provide an overview of the upcoming 2017 total solar eclipse, describe some potential scientific research that will result during this eclipse, plus discuss the “Eclipse Megamovie” in progress by scientists, researchers, filmmakers and other individuals to document the eclipse corona from images taken from Oregon to South Carolina. Reservations required. $12 members and seniors; $15 non-members.

Ongoing Events at the California Academy of Sciences

Butterfly Am I Daily, 11 am Piazza Do you have what it takes to be a butterfly? This theatrical program features pro-tips for success–from a butterfly's point of view. Don’t forget to visit a dazzling new butterfly emergence chamber in the Osher Rainforest!

Pollinator Power Monday through Friday, 11:15 am Saturday and Sunday, 2:15 pm Living Roof Butterflies, bats, and bees—oh my! Join us atop the Academy’s Living Roof for a peek into the lives of local pollinators and discover how these creatures keep humans and habitats healthy. Weather permitting.

Family Nature Crafts Saturday and Sunday, 10 am By the Swamp This kid friendly, nature-inspired activity is fun for the whole family! The first two weekends in May feature a craft about the life cycle of butterflies, while the last two weekends will feature a fun craft activity about high-flying pterosaurs. Supplies are limited and parental supervision is required.