Oceanography

Come be part of the inaugural 21+ Adult Science series that proves science isn't just for kids. Find out how DNA works, what chemical evolution is, and how scientists first investigated the chemical origins of life, all through digestible animations . We'll have leading scientists, as well as the animator, on site and ready to answer any questions you may have! Admission is free, and food and drinks will be available for purchase. Come get your science on!

Hands-on demonstrations of STEM: Chemistry, Biology, Astronomy, Physics, Math, Geosciences, and Engineering

Activities will introduce the public to the monitoring that takes place within the Reserve including an exhibit of a data logger, a model of a salt marsh for hands on vegetation sampling, and a salt marsh super heroes interactive for elementary-aged students, and a "fishing" activity which incorporates a simulation of trapping fish and invertebrates.

The deep sea is the largest habitat on Earth and home to an amazing diversity of animals. Come learn about the biology and ecology of deep-sea animals, which have numerous adaptations to life in the dark (large eyes, cryptic coloration, light organs). This hands-on activity will introduce participants to common deep-sea species (including lanternfishes, dragonfishes, glass squids, and barrel shrimps) and the essential roles these animals play in oceanic food webs and global nutrient cycles.

San Diego State University representatives from science and engineering will provide engaging and interactive activities for students and families of all ages. Touch live sea animals, code your own bracelet, build neurons out of pipe cleaners, explore the solar system in virtual reality and more! Learn directly from the SDSU researchers and innovators leading San Diego to new heights in STEM.

Star Dust Live blends hip hop, science, and storytelling to show we are all connected through star dust. Using STEAM lessons, music, and dance, the show inspires unity, curiosity, and self-love. Performed for ASTC, SmartLab Oakland, and the Fleet Science Center, with upcoming shows at Chabot (2026) and a new Virginia science center (2027).

ILACSD will provide resources related to environmental education on behalf of the City of San Diego. We'll have information about proper waste sorting and where/how to dispose of different types of items. We will have a game for people to sort items into: recycling, trash, and compost, including tricky items like aerosol cans, plastic wrappers, tissue paper, and sticky notes. Many people thoroughly enjoy playing this game and learning about why each item is disposed of a particular way.

In collaboration with Traveling Miss T. (@travelingmisst on instagram), The EcoLogik Institute (based out of Cabrillo National Monument) presents Cabrillo National Monument math maps! Travel by coordinate plane to learn about the environment, wildlife, and history of Cabrillo National Monument. Students will also have to opportunity to try their hand at wildlife monitoring with simulated science activities led by real National Park Service biologists!