The Science Center of Iowa (SCI) sets the stage for spectacular science discovery with Summer of Stars from May 9 - August 22, 2009. The summer kicks off Saturday, May 9 with FREE Trial Member Day. SCI invites the community to experience the benefits of membership, including FREE admission to SCI’s exhibits and live programs, as well as discounts on IMAX tickets, camps, and A-ha! Store purchases.

SCI's Summer of Stars features three main components:

LIVE Science on Stage - SCI features LIVE science in its world-class theaters, including the 50-ft. domed planetarium Star Theater and the 175-seat John Deere Adventure Theater. Personal interactions with SCI's engaging team of science experts and trained theatrical specialists will create lasting "a-ha!" moments for participants of all ages.

Blockbuster IMAX Films - In addition to a regular schedule of traditional films such as Under the Sea and Wired to Win: Surviving the Tour De France, SCI’s Blank IMAX Dome Theater rolls out the red carpet for three blockbuster feature films this summer:

  • Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian: The IMAX Experience Opening May 22. This is the first major film to be shot inside the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.
  • Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen: The IMAX Experience Opening June 24. Key sequences were shot using IMAX cameras after The Dark Knight’s success.
  • Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: The IMAX Experience Opening July 31. The sixth installment in this epic adventure brings the magic to life in IMAX. (tentative date)

New Experiences Every Day - SCI's calendar is 'bursting' with new experiences EVERY DAY sure to create lasting impressions upon participants of all ages:

  • Spectacular Special Events feature fun science to engage and inspire:
*Theater Day - June 13
*Extreme Temperature Event - June 20
*Member Appreciation Days – June 24 - 27
*Science of Magic - July 11
*Farmin' Fun - August 8
*Carnival Science - August 22
  • Daily Experiences provide ever-changing experiences for each unique visitor:
*MONDAYS - Senior Monday Tours; Do Lunch in IMAX
*TUESDAYS - Rocket Building Workshops; WHO-TV 13 Storm School
*WEDNESDAYS - Science Storytime for Little Explorers
*THURSDAYS - WHO-TV 13 Storm School; WHO-TV live weather broadcasts with Meteorologist Ed Wilson
$5 Fun Night! includes:
$5 general admission
$5 traditional-length IMAX tickets
$5 Backyard BBQ meal
*FRIDAYS – SCI will debut of NEW live programs such as the Star Theater Spectacular and Deep Freeze!
*SATURDAYS - FREE SCI Street Performance outdoors during the Downtown Farmers' Market


Complete details on SCI's Summer of Stars, including a calendar of events, pricing information and facility hours can be found online at www.sciowa.org. Monthly special events and most daily experiences are included with general admission. Separate pricing applies to Senior Monday Tours, Do Lunch in IMAX and Thursday $5 Fun Nights.