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Cranbrook Institute of ScienceDecember 2015
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In This Issue
Night Life
Last Chance
Celebrate the Holidays
ScienceNOW
Lunch with a Bat
Science Shop
Give the Gift
Did You Know
Social Media
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� 2015 Cranbrook Institute of Science


Night Life Explores the Nocturnal and All Things Dark

Astronomers, educators, and naturalists invite guests to explore the mysteries of the dark in NIGHT LIFE December 26 through 30 from 1-4pm each day. From meteorites to giant planets, and star charts to a linear model of the solar system that will fit in your pocket, this event will explore the world of darkness where nothing seems to happen, but much occurs. Bring your telescope and the Warren Astronomical Society will help you develop your skills as an amateur astronomer. Or, try your hand at operating a robotic rover over the surface of Mars. We'll even answer the questions "How Big? How Far?" by exploring the distance between the Earth and Moon to discover which is larger. NIGHT LIFE is Free with admission. Weekday planetariums and Bats: Superheroes of the Night are offered at an additional charge.
Last Chance to See the Vampires in Superheroes of the Night
The Holiday season marks the last chance to see the Vampire Bats in Superheroes of the Night as they return to the bat Zone shortly after the New Year. They will be replaced by another Superhero, the Giant Flying Fox. Time your visit to watch the vampires bats eat during feedings in the late morning and late afternoon! BATS: Superheroes of the Night features live bats and was created especially for the Institute of Science by the Organization for Bat Conservation. The exhibition uses a comic superhero theme to playfully demonstrate why bats are important, what is threatening them, and how kids and adults can help save these important pollinators, insect eaters, and forest regenerators. Visitors meet three superhero bats and their corresponding villains, and leave armed with the knowledge they need to be superheroes to bats. This is an all age's experience. BATS: Superheroes of the Night continues through June 2016. Admission is $5 for the general public, $4 for members, and $3 for seniors and children 2-12 plus museum admission. Children under 2 are free.

Celebrate the Holidays in the Planetarium and Observatory

Mystery of the Xmas Star

The Acheson Planetarium presents special seasonal programs and daytime show times December 23, 28, 29, and 30 during the school break. Regular evening and weekend schedules apply December 26 and 27, and January 2 and 3. Journey back 2000 years to Bethlehem as we utilize recorded sightings of significant astronomical occurrences during related historical events to discover the possible scientific explanation for the star the wise men followed in Mystery of the Christmas Star. For the ultimate seasonal musical experience, try Let It Snow. Festive classics from Frank Sinatra, Chuck Berry, Burl Ives and others, is a fun and entertaining experience for all ages. The Observatory is free with admission on Sunday, January 3.

Discover ScienceNOW

Registration is open for ScienceNOW, the Institute's newest learning experience, ScienceNOW. Featuring a series of classes and lectures for all ages, ScienceNOW is an exciting learning opportunity for anyone looking to explore science during their spare time without the full semester commitment of a traditional night or weekend class. Designed to include something for every age and interest, ScienceNOW includes courses, lectures, special events, and unique experiences. Utilizing the Institute's collections and resources, and leveraging expertise and talent both internally and externally, ScienceNOW will keep you well-informed about the latest topics in science. Visit us online for schedules and courses.

Lunch with a Bat

Join us each Saturday to get an even closer look at a real live bat when an educator from the Organization for Bat Conservation brings one of the bats out of its enclosure at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm for a special feeding time. Ask questions while you watch the bat enjoy its mealworm lunch! No touching please! Lunch With A Bat is free with the purchase of a ticket to the BATS: Superheroes of the Night exhibit. 

Support the Institute by Visiting the Science Shop

The Science Shop offers a wide range of toys, books, games, activity kits and unique gifts for everyone on your holiday list. Shop Michigan style and buy Petoskey stones, copper or books about our home state. For the Science lover, a Crystal Growing kit or solar powered car or boat is sure to dazzle. For the stocking, no one will forget receiving astronaut Ice Cream, or Crickettes Edible Crickets in Sour Cream & Onion, Bacon & Cheese, or salt and vinegar flavor! Visiting the shop benefits the museum and its mission. MEMBER EXCLUSIVE OFFER: Bring in a copy of this newsletter or show it to us on your cell phone and get an extra 10% off your 10% Member discount through December 23, 2015. Offer does not apply to consignment and clearance merchandise. You do not need to pay admission to visit the Shop.

Give the Gift of Membership

Order now to give the gift of science! Through December 31, 2015, friends of the Institute are eligible for 20% off the purchase of a Gift Membership. Your Gift Membership to Cranbrook Institute of Science will be the gift that keeps on giving. In addition to enjoying science year-round, members will also receive exclusive invitations to Members' Only events, access to nearly 300 science & technology museums worldwide, discounts on Planetarium and Traveling Hall Exhibit tickets, and more!

Did You Know ...YOU make a Difference at Cranbrook Institute of Science!

Winter Break

Cranbrook Institute of Science is committed to providing the best scope and scale of science education possible to you, your family and those in and around our community; but we can't do it alone. This important work is done, in large part, because of the success of the Cranbrook Institute of Science Annual Fund. The Institute relies on the support of individuals like you to assist us in influencing the scientists of tomorrow. With your support, we are able to provide Unique, hands-on activities for guests, comprehensive educational programming, maintenance to one of the most extensive natural history collections in the country, and the opportunity to inspire over 200,000 guests annually. Please consider supporting the Institute by making a gift today. You can be assured that every gift, no matter what size, will be warmly received and greatly appreciated.