Note to SCI Visitors: Please be aware of school group attendance, which could impact your visit. Today's school group traffic is expected to be MODERATE. To avoid these groups, plan your visit later in the day! Schools typically depart the building by 2:00 pm.
Our youngest visitors can bring their imaginations as an SCI Programs Team member reads under the starry skies.
Help guide a breathtaking journey through our solar system, exploring the unique features, mysteries, and wonders of its most important celestial bodies.
From things that glow to things that explode, this program is a real blast!
Experience one of the most mysterious — and misunderstood — wonders of the Universe. Narrated by Liam Neeson. Sponsored by NASA. Program and location subject to change.
Have you ever wondered what Snippy the Snapping Turtle eats? Come check out a feeding demonstration of one of SCI’s most ravenous reptiles! The snapping turtle feeding may be too intense for some visitors.
Locate constellations and planets, and hear myths of the night sky in this live planetarium program. Program and location subject to change.
Get chills and thrills from cryogenic demonstrations.
Meet and get the chance to touch some of SCI’s resident reptiles and amphibians.
Go on an adventure though history to learn about the creation of the telescope and the discoveries this invention has helped humanity make! Program and location subject to change.
Experience out-of-this-world space observation! Join SCI staff and star gazing guides to take a look through high-powered telescopes at the planets - including a chance to see Mercury!
Activities and telescopes will be set up at the Drake Municipal Observatory (4898 Observatory Rd, Des Moines, IA)
PLEASE NOTE: Solar & Star Parties are weather dependent and are subject to cancellation. Check the SCI website for updates on the event.