Orlando Science Center Archives

Otronicon Returns to Orlando Science Center

Otronicon 2016, photo by Roberto Gonzalez

From February 18 to 21 Otronicon, the interactive technology expo and science festival, returns to the Orlando Science Center with virtual reality, robots, simulators, video games, guest speakers, competitions, workshops, live shows, demonstrations and so much more!

Otronicon, presented by UCF Office of Research, is back fully onsite and in-person this year to offer a unique opportunity for everyone to experience and explore how science and technology is helping us all move forward together.

Participants can operate highly specialized surgical robots, explore fascinating STEM careers, and discover how the latest advancements in immersive virtual reality are helping us make the world a better place.

For example, see how the immersive experiences at the Walt Disney World Resort are made possible by utilizing science and technology in a wide variety of ways. Then explore a virtual nature park through the fully immersive CAVEs exhibit, thanks to the team at the University of Central Florida. Trekkies, if you’re imagining the holodeck, you’re on the right track. And if you’d rather deconstruct technology than interact with it, “Take it Apart” is your opportunity to take peek behind the curtain and see what goes on behind the screens.

Otronicon continues to evolve alongside the innovators we feature every year. This year, the event begins its expansion into a community-wide science festival. Smaller community events prior to Otronicon will set the stage for engagement and exploration on how technology is changing our lives.

The event is also focused on promoting groups that are historically underrepresented in STEM fields. There will be workshops hosted by Black Architects in the Making, Black Orlando Tech, the Society of Women Engineers and many others. Otronicon will also host panel discussions on diversity in STEM and building inclusive communities in the science and technology sectors.

In addition to Walt Disney World, participants include returning favorites like AdventHealth for Children, University of Central Florida, U.S. Navy/Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD), and FIRST Robotics. Otronicon welcomes new partners like Rake Technologies, Inc., Soulcade Interactive, LLC, Burns & McDonnell and the Manufacturers Association of Central Florida and many more.

There is a greater focus on live shows this year with performances by WeFlip Entertainment using acrobatics to illustrate physics and Spheres Bubble Show with a fusion of art, science and magic.

Guests will be able to explore the all-new exhibit, Science Fiction, Science Future, which showcases the innovations that classic science fiction predicted for our future while you imagine what comes next. Tablet computers, GPS, automatic doors and even biometric health data tracking were all just figments of the imagination when they first appeared on Star Trek in the 1960s. Now, these devices are commonplace. What technological wonders await us tomorrow? Step inside this exhibit and find out.

Otronicon began in 2006 as an opportunity to explore how videogame technology was impacting how you live, learn, work and play. If you like to game, Otronicon is still the place for you. From the game developer showcase to competitions by Powder Keg Games, there is something to satisfy every console jockey. Otronicon welcomes all lifelong learners, from the tech curious to the seriously savvy. Regardless of your background, whether you work in the tech industry or just have a passion for discovery, this event will engage your mind and spark your curiosity with demonstrations of exoskeleton devices, planetary tours, animal encounters and so much more.

OTRONICON HOURS, ADMISSION & MORE

Otronicon is open February 18–22 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission to Otronicon is FREE for OSC members, $21 for adults, $19 for seniors and students, and $15 for youth (ages 2-11). For more information, please call 407.514.2000.

SAFETY GUIDELINES

Face coverings are currently required for all visitors, ages 3 and up, regardless of vaccination status. For more information visit www.osc.org/reopening-plan/

Science Fiction, Science Future Exhibit at Orlando Science Center

Let your imagination run wild with the possibilities of the future in our latest exhibition, Science Fiction, Science Future, presented by The Macauley and Helen Dow Whiting Foundation, coming to the Orlando Science Center from January 29 to May 9, 2022.

The exhibit will also be a key feature of this year’s Otronicon Science Festival and Tech Expo, when it returns as a fully in-person onsite event during Presidents Day Weekend, February 18-21.

Created by the renowned Scitech in Perth, Australia, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Science Fiction, Science Future will allow you to move objects with your mind, disappear right before your eyes, interact with a robot that copies your movements and experience augmented reality in action.

When you look back at iconic works of science fiction, they often predict the innovations of the future. Tablet computers, GPS, automatic doors, and even biometric health data tracking were all just figments of the imagination when they first appeared on Star Trek in the 1960s. Now, these are everyday technologies.

Science Fiction, Science Future gives you the chance to explore the technology that classic science fiction predicted for our future while you imagine what comes next. How long do you think it will take for robots to walk the streets with us? They already built our cars and explore space. You could predict the next great invention!

Inside the exhibit, you will also be able to draw and describe what you think houses, transportation, and our planet will look like in the world of tomorrow.

Will we live on Mars, get around using jet-pack rockets, or have a robot cook our meals? It’s up to you to decide.

We live in an exciting time in a world that is constantly changing due to technological advances. For example, it used to be fantasy to have robots works for us but now they vacuum our homes, act as personal butlers, and even do complex tasks like performing surgeries!

Find out more about the science fiction predictions that could become realities in this thought-provoking exhibition. Make sure to check out Science Fiction, Science Future while it’s at the Orlando Science Center.

The future is here, and it’s in your hands! For more info, timed-entry tickets, and health and safety guidelines, please visit www.osc.org.

Design Zone Exhibit Premieres at Orlando Science Center

Explore the science behind music, art, and action in Orlando Science Center’s latest exhibit, Design Zone, until January 9, 2022.

This exhibit was produced by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and made possible by a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant. It highlights the relationship between mathematical thinking and the creative process in art, music, and engineering.

Behind every half-pipe, there’s a vert. Behind every dance mix, there’s a beat. Behind every thrill ride, there’s velocity. Design is everywhere we look and in everything we do, and math is behind it all.

Design Zone is focused around three thematic areas, which draw visitors into real-life scenes of music production, video game development, and extreme sports that directly and experientially relate to mathematical concepts.

Displays encourage visitors to get hands-on with patterns, variables, scale, and ratios and experience how these mathematical concepts are used by artists, architects, engineers, musicians, and other innovators.

Design Zone features over a dozen hands-on exhibit pieces allowing you to create your experience!

HEAR IT!
Step into Club OSC and learn about the relationship between math and music as you learn about pitch, rhythm, and audiovisual representations of sound!

SEE IT!
Enter the Digital Design Lab and see how designers use scale, patterns, grids, and more in everything from video games to architecture!

MOVE IT!
Roll into Action Park and discover how math and physics are behind anything that moves. Design a roller coaster, build your own skate park, or race your bike to the finish line!

In Design Zone, you’ll solve real-world challenges and discover that math isn’t just a subject in school—it’s one of the coolest creative tools we have to design and invent everything in the world of art, music, entertainment, and extreme sports.

Design Zone is included with admission to Orlando Science Center, which is FREE for members*, $21 for adults, $19 for seniors and students, and $15 for youth (ages 2 – 11). Tickets include access to all four floors of exhibits, movies, and live programming. Get your timed-entry tickets online at www.osc.org/tickets.

To become a member for unlimited access to Orlando Science Center all year long, discounts to camps, and special member-only events, visit www.osc.org/membership or call 407-514-2158.

If you have an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) or WIC card with a State-issued photo ID matching the name and state of the card, you qualify for a $3 admission per person for up to six individuals.

Meet Real-Life Heroes at the Orlando Science Center This Weekend

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a firefighter? Here’s your chance to find out! Orlando Fire Department will be celebrating the final days of the RESCUE exhibit at Orlando Science Center by participating in a Meet and Greet session, including a tour of their fire truck and a chance to answer all of your burning questions.

Visitors are invited to meet these local heroes and learn more about the technology and teamwork that goes into being a first responder.

Celebrate the Final Days of the RESCUE Exhibit with a Firefighter Meet and Greet and Fire Truck Tour at the Orlando Science Center

Saturday, September 4 – From 2 to 4 p.m. (Firefighters & Fire Truck)
Saturday, September 4 & Sunday, September 5 – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Final Days of Rescue Exhibit)

The truck will be parked outside the Science Center’s Entrance A on Camden Street (near the Dr. Phillips CineDome).

Please note, the schedule is subject to change if an emergency situation arises.

While you’re waiting for the firefighters to arrive or when you’re ready to put your newfound knowledge to the test, check out RESCUE before it leaves on September 6!

Search and rescue operations take place every minute, every hour, every day, all around the world. But what does a rescue scenario really involve? Through interactive exhibit pieces combined with the stories of real-life heroes, RESCUE offers visitors a first-hand look into the science of saving lives. Climb aboard life-size models of rescue vehicles like helicopters and jet skis to perform a simulated mission or use a sensor to search for heat signatures or test different fire extinguishers to better understand how to fight the flames!
Whether you’re an anchor breaking the news of a disaster, or part of a search and rescue mission, there is no “I” in “TEAM!” Find out if you have what it takes to be a hero.

To learn more, visit www.osc.org/rescue. This exhibit was created by Scitech in Perth, Australia, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions. Following your RESCUE adventure, enjoy all four floors of exhibits and experiences at Orlando Science Center because everything is included with general admission.

General admission is $21 for adults, $19 for seniors and students, and $15 for youth (ages 2 – 11). Admission is free for annual members. To get your timed-entry tickets and more information, please visit www.osc.org.

Face coverings are currently required for all ages 3 and up, regardless of vaccination status. Before visiting, please review our safety guidelines: Orlando Science Center Visitor Information and Reopening Guidelines.

Pompeii: The Immortal City Rescheduled for this Fall!

Pompeii exhibit Orland Science Center Pompeii: The Immortal City

The long wait is over! Postponed due to the impact of COVID-19, Pompeii: The Immortal City will now premiere at Orlando Science Center on October 26, 2020. This blockbuster exhibition features over 100 authentic artifacts and experiences that will plunge visitors into the heart of the ancient city. Orlando Science Center is one of only three locations in the nation to host Pompeii: The Immortal City and is the last stop on its US tour, which concludes on January 24, 2021.

The exhibition’s stay in Orlando is funded in part by Orange County Government and its tourism partners through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Blockbuster Program. It was developed and produced by TEMPORA in collaboration with Civita and Filmmaster based on the scientific research of Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli and Museo Galileo Istituto e Museo di Storia della Scienza, Firenze and distributed by Exhibits Development Group.

“Pompeii is the perfect exhibit for these times,” said JoAnn Newman, President and CEO of Orlando Science Center. “The artifacts encourage quiet contemplation while timed entry limits capacity and offers people ample time, and distance, to examine displays and better understand the magnificence and ultimate tragedy of this remarkable place.”

Spectacular immersive moments will allow visitors to experience the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius and its destructive path through the city. In just 24 hours, Pompeii was buried, and perfectly preserved, by volcanic ash in 79 AD. Displays of artwork, jewelry, statues, architecture, multimedia experiences and recreations of mechanical devices, allow visitors to discover this first-century Roman town and its many technological achievements.

Advance tickets are now on sale at www.osc.org/pompeii. People who originally reserved tickets for Pompeii before it was postponed can contact gservices@osc.org to reschedule their visit. General admission tickets will be $26 for adults and $18 for youth (advance booking fees and parking fees apply) and include access to Pompeii: The Immortal City plus Orlando Science Center exhibits and experiences.

Orlando Science Center Museum Kids Night at the Museum August 2020 Pompeii: The Immortal City

Tickets are only available online. Orlando Science Center Members receive free admission to Pompeii: The Immortal City with their membership (advance booking fees apply). Please review Orlando Science Center’s health and safety guidelines (subject to change) before visiting at www.osc.org/reopening-plan.

Orlando Science Center Hosts Kids Night

The Orlando Science Center is hosting a Kids Night at the Museum this Saturday, August 29th, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., where kids ages 5 to 12 years have the opportunity explore exhibits, experience enhanced programming, and enjoy dinner and a film in age-appropriate small groups to adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Orlando Science Museum Kids Night at the Museum August 2020

The best part? Caregivers can enjoy a stress-free and childless evening on the town while their budding scientists have an entertaining experience of their own exploring the wonders of everything the Science Center has to offer.

This event has a limited capacity to support our health and safety guidelines and ensure proper social distancing so caregivers need to reserve spots for their children ASAP. The schedule for the evening will be as follows:

6:00 p.m. – Drop-off Begins Until 6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m. – In Classroom Activities
7:00 p.m. – Pizza Dinner
7:30 p.m. – Guided Exhibit Hall Experience
8:00 p.m. – Live Science Show
8:30 p.m. – Guided Exhibit Hall Experience
9:00 p.m. – Giant-Screen Film
9:45 p.m. – In Classroom Activities (pickup begins)
10:30 p.m. – Program Concludes

Registration is open until this Thursday night at 11:59 p.m. so we’re just trying to get the word out.

For more info, including FAQs, fees and how to register, please visit https://www.osc.org/visit/events/kids-night-at-the-museum/

Discounts available for siblings and Orlando Science Center members and families. The Science Center’s exhibits don’t come to life after hours, but during Kids Night at the Museum, the building will definitely be full of energy!

Orlando Science Center Pompeii Exhibit Update

The Orlando Science Center announced today that Pompeii: The Immortal City will now premiere on October 26, 2020.

This blockbuster exhibition features over 100 authentic artifacts and experiences that will plunge visitors into the heart of the ancient city. Orlando Science Center is one of only three locations in the nation to host Pompeii: The Immortal City and is the last stop on its US tour, which concludes on January 24, 2021.

“Pompeii is the perfect exhibit for these times,” said JoAnn Newman, President and CEO of Orlando Science Center. “The artifacts encourage quiet contemplation while timed entry limits capacity and offers people ample time, and distance, to examine displays and better understand the magnificence and ultimate tragedy of this remarkable place.”

Advance tickets are now on sale at www.osc.org/pompeii. People who originally reserved tickets for Pompeii before it was postponed can contact gservices@osc.org to reschedule their visit.

General admission tickets will be $26 for adults and $18 for youth (advance booking fees and parking fees apply) and include access to Pompeii: The Immortal City plus Orlando Science Center exhibits and experiences.

Orlando Science Center Members receive free admission to Pompeii: The Immortal City with their membership (advance booking fees apply).

Tickets are only available online.

Please review Orlando Science Center’s health and safety guidelines (subject to change) before visiting at www.osc.org/reopening-plan.

Otronicon coming to the Orlando Science Center

Otronicon is celebrating their 15th year of celebrating art, science and technology at the Orlando Science Center January 17 through 20!

Otronicon connects guests of all ages with larger-than-life experiences to explore how science and technology impact society with four floors of simulators, robots, artwork, virtual reality, video games, competitions, workshops, audiovisual presentations and so much more.

The event focuses on Central Florida’s growing tech industry while connecting attendees with professionals who are driving Orlando’s digital future with partners including Lockheed Martin, AdventHealth, Disney, UCF, FIEA, Full Sail, Microsoft and the Orange County Public Library Melrose Center.

New to this year’s Otronicon are selfie stations, Pokemon labs, a musical Tesla Coil show, drone cages and a “Star Wars”-themed coding workshop hosted by Disney.

Also, attendees will want to hear keynote speaker Kate Edwards from International Game Designers Association as she coaches fledgling game designers about creating more vivid and inclusive worlds in their games.

Exhibitors

Almost 60 exhibitors will be in attendance at Otronicon sharing the latest technology from the education, military and gaming fields with hands-on experiences and demonstrations for attendees of all ages to enjoy.

Click here to view the full list of exhibitors.

Workshops

During Otronicon guests of various ages and skill levels can register for 60- to 90-minute hands-on workshops about a variety of topics such as game design, coding, programming, robotics and more during the event.

The workshop schedule varies daily, and registration is available in the Club House on Level 1.

Space for these opportunities is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so please sign up upon arriving at Otronicon to guarantee your spot.

Click here to view the full list of workshops.

Speakers

The Otronicon speaker series gives audiences the chance to hear directly from industry leaders, visionaries and professors about how technology developed in the Orlando area is changing the world.

The speaker series takes place daily at the Discovery Stage in Our Planet on Level 4 with unique presentations each day.

Click here to view the full list of speakers.

Competitions

During Otronicon Powder Keg Games will host video game tournaments on the Nintendo, PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

Click here to view the full list of competitions.

Tickets Information

Otronicon is free for Orlando Science Center members, $21 for adults, $19 for seniors and students and $15 for youth (ages 2-11).

Click here to purchase Otronicon tickets.

Also there will be a very special Science Night Live featuring Otronicon on Saturday, Jan. 18, from 8 p.m. until 11:30 p.m.

Science Night Live is a 21-and-up event and requires a separate ticket.

Click here to purchase Science Night Live tickets.

Turtle Power at the Orlando Science Center

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Orlando Science Center Summer 2019

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer brings ninja tactics, teamwork, and science together

After three decades of battling evil and exemplifying teamwork, the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), are appearing in a museum exhibit for children and families to enjoy at Orlando Science Center.

The four funny “heroes in a half–shell” will share life lessons and team-building skills with their crime-fighting tactics in Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer.

The exhibit is visiting the Orlando Science Center, and inside families join the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brothers Leonardo (the tactical, courageous leader in blue), Michelangelo (the free-spirited jokester in orange), Raphael (the aggressive tough guy in red), and Donatello (the scientist and technological genius in purple) in their secret New York City sewer lair to train together and learn about the Turtles’ comedic, skillful strategies.

The Turtles are known and respected for their teamwork. As the TMNT’s sensei and adoptive father Splinter often tells them, “Together there is nothing you cannot accomplish.” Through team-building challenges, collaborative games and mind-teasing puzzles, families and friends will learn skills to help them successfully work together.

Here are a few examples of activities you’ll experience inside the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer exhibit at the Orlando Science Center:

• Build a “bridge” together and think creatively as a team to overcome challenges.

• Assemble two electrical circuit puzzles by taking one apart to build another.

• Plan ahead and use patience to navigate the rope maze.

• Practice ninja speed and slicing skills while playing a dexterity-based computer game.

• Shred up and practice your balance on skateboards.

• Create a sewer pipe together and see where it goes.

The Turtles took the comic book world by storm in 1984, and since then Donnie, Ralph, Leo and Mikey have brought Turtle Power to cartoons, movies, video games and toys! Children and families across the nation will have the opportunity to explore Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer as it travels to children’s museums and science centers coast to coast.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer is produced by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and Nickelodeon. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a nonprofit institution committed to creating extraordinary family learning experiences across the arts, sciences and humanities that have the power to transform the lives of children and families.

The exhibit is on display at Orlando Science Center until September 2, 2019, and is included with general admission to Orlando Science Center and free to members. For more information, please visit www.osc.org /TMNT.

Orlando Science Center Seeking Community Partners

Submissions are being accepted to help bring the story of this ancient city to life as part of the Pompeii: The Immortal City exhibition

ORLANDO, Fla.

Next year the Orlando Science Center will welcome Pompeii: The Immortal City exhibition, and they are inviting artists and cultural organizations from around Central Florida to help bring the ancient city of Pompeii to life with complimentary art exhibits, educational lectures, and artistic performances.

As part of the exhibition coming to the Orlando Science Center will be allocating $75,000 to support partnership programs and collaborations leading up to and coinciding with the run of the exhibition Pompeii: The Immortal City, opening summer 2020.

Selected program partners will develop engaging opportunities tied to the rich and influential culture of ancient Pompeii and the Roman world.

“A critical aspect of our mission is to support the creative and educational community,” says Orlando Science Center President & CEO JoAnn Newman. “Orlando is well known for its arts and sciences and we’re excited to bring them together in anticipation of this new exhibition.”

Pompeii: The Immortal City exhibition brings to light the extraordinary achievements of this ancient culture through artworks, interactive mechanical devices and multimedia experiences. The media-rich exhibition takes visitors on a journey through time into the daily life of the first-century Roman town, and places them at the center of events, as they hear and feel the roar of the volcano erupting before their eyes.

Submissions for proposals are being accepted now through April 30, 2019. Applicants can register at www.osc.org/pompeii. Partnership events and programs should have the goal of appealing to diverse and broad audiences. No proposal is too small, and collaborations with other institutions are highly encouraged.

Orlando Science Center is one of only four locations in the United States to host this exhibit, thanks to generous support from the Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs Blockbuster Fund.

Science of Wine at the Orlando Science Center

Science of Wine Orlando Science Center 2019

Ready your mind – and palate – for a night of wining, dining and learning at one of Orlando’s most unique food and wine events, the Science of Wine!

ORLANDO, Fla.

The 9th annual Science of Wine, presented by Southern Glazer’s Wines and Spirits, on April 27th is your chance to sip, savor, and support the mission of Orlando Science Center while you uncork your inner sommelier (and scientist!).

The Science of Wine is not just another wine tasting, but an oenological odyssey for adults only with presentations on multiple aspects of wine growing and wine tasting in addition to samples of more than 150 fine wines from the world’s most important wine regions and some of the best food from your favorite region, Central Florida!

Science of Wine 2019 Orlando Science Center — Orlando Science Center Facebook Page

There are also two add on experiences to take your night to the next level!

Swine & Sons Cooking Demos

Demos at 7:30pm and 8:45pm

$20 per person with purchase of Science of Wine ticket

Have you ever wondered why your favorite Cabernet compliments a grilled steak so perfectly, or which white wine would be best with the seafood dish you’re preparing?

We’ll explore the science behind some classic food and wine pairings and discover what works, and why in this interactive food and wine tasting demo hosted by Swine & Sons Provisions.

Cooking demos are $20 per person with the purchase of a Science of Wine ticket, and seats are limited.

Thank you to our partner, Swine and Son’s for leading guests on this cooking journey.

Wine Seminar – How’d It Get There?

Demo at 6:30pm

$20 per person with purchase of Science of Wine ticket

Want to become the wine expert within your friend group? Look no further than this wine seminar hosted by Julie Pepi, CSW Director for Fine Wine in Florida for Trinchero Family Estates!

You’ll learn why certain grapes grow better in specific places, what tannin and oak flavors actually are, where the bubbles in your favorite Champagne come from and so much more!

Seats to the Wine Seminar are $20 per person with the purchase of a Science of Wine ticket.

Limited seating is available so reserve your spot today.

Tickets are available now for this amazing evening benefitting the Orlando Science Center, and cost $100 for Orlando Science Center Members and $125 for General Admission.

Tag: Orlando Science Center

Otronicon Returns to Orlando Science Center

OTRONICON HOURS, ADMISSION & MORE

SAFETY GUIDELINES

Science Fiction, Science Future Exhibit at Orlando Science Center

Design Zone Exhibit Premieres at Orlando Science Center

Meet Real-Life Heroes at the Orlando Science Center This Weekend

Celebrate the Final Days of the RESCUE Exhibit with a Firefighter Meet and Greet and Fire Truck Tour at the Orlando Science Center

Please note, the schedule is subject to change if an emergency situation arises.

Pompeii: The Immortal City Rescheduled for this Fall!

Orlando Science Center Hosts Kids Night

Orlando Science Center Pompeii Exhibit Update

Otronicon coming to the Orlando Science Center

Turtle Power at the Orlando Science Center

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer brings ninja tactics, teamwork, and science together

Here are a few examples of activities you’ll experience inside the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer exhibit at the Orlando Science Center:

Orlando Science Center Seeking Community Partners

Submissions are being accepted to help bring the story of this ancient city to life as part of the Pompeii: The Immortal City exhibition

Science of Wine at the Orlando Science Center

Ready your mind – and palate – for a night of wining, dining and learning at one of Orlando’s most unique food and wine events, the Science of Wine!

The Science of Wine Culinary Partners Include:

Tickets are available now for this amazing evening benefitting the Orlando Science Center, and cost $100 for Orlando Science Center Members and $125 for General Admission.