Association of Science and Technology Centers

Name: Association of Science and Technology Centers
Address: Washington D.C., DC, US
Telephone: +12027837200
Rating: 4.6

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Washington D.C., DC
Association of Science and Technology Centers

Serving science centers and science museums around the world
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Founded in 1973, ASTC is a network of nearly 700 science and technology centers and museums, and allied organizations, engaging more than 110 million people annually across North America and in almost 50 countries. With its members and partners, ASTC works towards a vision of increased understanding of—and engagement with—science and technology among all people. Members include not only science ce

nters and museums, but also nature centers, aquariums, planetariums, zoos, botanical gardens, and natural history and children's museums, as well as companies, consultants, and other organizations that share an interest in informal science education.

07/23/2024

Congratulations to the MIT Museum for being reaccredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). For over 50 years, AAM accreditation has signaled a museum’s quality and credibility to the entire museum community, to governments and outside agencies, and to the public.

Two museums have received first-time accreditation and thirty-three have been reaccredited.

07/23/2024

The Museum of Science, Boston, has opened “Innovation: Earth,” an immersive, interactive experience that explores how we can live, move, eat, and work in a carbon-neutral world. The new exhibit is part of the museum’s year-long “Earthshot” effort. WBZ / CBS News Boston Meteorologist Jacob Wycoff paid a visit.

A brand-new exhibit opened up on Wednesday at the Museum of Science about our changing climate and the solutions to solve it.

07/22/2024

NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration is accepting application for its TEAM II program, which supports museums and others in proposing NASA-inspired STEM projects for K-12 students, families, and educators. This year’s call includes Community Anchor awards of up to $50k and new STEM Innovator awards of up to $250k.

Learn more at a NASA webinar this Thursday, July 25, at 12:30 p.m. ET.

NASA is now accepting applications for its Teams Engaging Affiliated Museums and Informal Institutions (TEAM II) program, which has been expanded with a new third tier of funding. TEAM II is a competitive award program that enables non-profit museums, planetariums, libraries, and youth-serving organ...

07/22/2024

Over 100 exhibitors and counting for the Annual Conference in Chicago. If you’re not yet among them yet, reserve your booth now as only limited space remains in the Exhibit Hall. Don’t miss out on the chance to engage participants at the world’s largest assembly of science center and science engagement professionals.

ASTC 2024 Annual Conference Chicago, Illinois, USA Exhibitors ASTC is delighted to welcome the following organizations to the Exhibit Hall at the ASTC 2024 Annual Conference. Is your organization listed? Learn more and reserve your booth now! Contact us at [email protected] with any questions. Exhib...

07/22/2024

ASTC relies on the voices of our members to guide us in our work to support and engage members and the informal science education field. We invite staff at all levels from all ASTC members (both Science Center and Allied) to raise your hand to be considered for a committee or other volunteer opportunity.

ASTC relies on the voices of our members to guide us in our work to support and engage members and the informal science education field. We invite staff at all levels from ASTC members (both Science Center and Museum Members and Allied Members) in good standing to raise your hand to be considered fo...

07/22/2024

Botanists at the International Botanical Congress have voted to change the names of hundreds of plant species because the previous names were based on a racial slur.

An international body has voted to make the change and to further consider the ethics of scientific names

07/17/2024

Last month MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in Santa Barbara, California, welcomed its one-millionth guest—and local TV station KEYT was on hand for the festivities. Here’s to your next million and beyond!

MOXI celebrates its one-millionth guest with special surprises. The museum opened in Santa Barbara in 2017.

07/17/2024

Nominations are now open for the Blooloop 50 Museum Influencer List 2024. This list, now in its fifth year, celebrates the work and contributions of leading figures across the museum sector. Many members of the ASTC community have been honored in the past, including more than 10 on last year’s list. Nominations are open until August 26.

Blooloop, in association with BeWunder, experts in spectacular multisensory experiences using a range of media and technology, is pleased to announce that

07/17/2024

The summer 2024 NASA's is open! This summer's target: Cassiopeia A!

Submit your images from MicroObservatory data or from large ground- and space-based data, and your work may get feedback from scientists!

Find more info on the Challenges website: https://mo-www.cfa.harvard.edu/OWN/astrophoto/index.html

07/17/2024

Congratulations to Orlando Science Center, which received a surprise Disney Grant along with six other Florida nonprofits that are bringing joy, happiness, and magic to families. The grant will support the center’s Neighborhood Science program, providing free after-school STEM programming for youth in underserved Central Florida communities.

Suggested Meta Description: Learn more about the nonprofit organizations that are bringing magic to families through monetary donations that we call Disney Grants.

07/12/2024

The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh and Science Museum of Minnesota are among the eight organizations who are receiving support for professional development from the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ 21st Century Museum Professional Program (21MP). The 21MP program was relaunched this year after a 12-year hiatus.

The U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has announced the recipients of its 21st Century Museum Professionals Program (21MP) for fiscal year 2024. Eight institutions—including two ASTC members—have been selected from 48 eligible applicants and will share $2 million in funding. T...

07/12/2024

Whether you are a first-time attendee, a seasoned veteran, or rejoining us after a break, attending is a great way to advance your own professional development and benefit your organization.

ASTC’s Conference Program Planning Committee shared some of their reasons for attending conference, and we’ve also drafted a letter template for you to share with a manager to help make the case for attending.

Whether you are a first-time attendee, a seasoned veteran, or rejoining us after a break, attending the ASTC Annual Conference is a great way to advance your own professional development and benefit your organization. ASTC’s Conference Program Planning Committee (CPPC) shared some of their reasons...

07/11/2024

The U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services is seeking nominations for the 2025 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for museums and libraries in service to their communities. Many ASTC members have been honored in recent years, including Children's Museum Houston and Discovery Museum among the 2024 cohort. Nominations are open now through September 6.

IMLS is now accepting nominations for the 2025 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor awarded to libraries and museums for service to their communities.

07/11/2024

Roto Group has announced a leadership transition as it celebrates its 20th anniversary as an exhibition design leader. Founding partner and CEO Joseph Wisne will take on a new title of Chief Creative Officer as former CFO/COO Maurice Twomey becomes President and Dana Russell assumes the role of VP of Brand and Culture.

Roto has announced a changes to its leadership team to coincide with the company's 20th anniversary celebrations.

07/10/2024

Pacific Science Center has welcomed Freeda Warren as its new Chief Advancement Officer, where she will lead marketing, public relations, fundraising, government affairs, and more. Warren most recently served as Senior Vice President of Advancement at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

Pacific Science Center (PacSci) recently announced the appointment of Freeda Warren as Chief Advancement Officer (CAO).

07/08/2024

Pleased to welcome back We The Curious in Bristol, UK, which has reopened two years after a fire on the roof and water caused significant damage to the building.

The science attraction says it has "some lovely new surprises" for visitors old and new to enjoy.

07/08/2024

Kudos to the Museum of Science, Boston, for working with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Justice and Equity to host forums to engage public conversations about emerging technologies—including on harnessing hydrogen and community benefits plans. Thanks to DOE for the summary.

Across federal government, agencies are thinking about what effective, inclusive public involvement in federal decision-making can look like. How can agencies best engage with Americans of all walks of life?

07/08/2024

Continuing to think of our members and friends who have been—or will be—in the path of Hurricane Beryl and its wind and rain effects. Beryl is the earliest-forming Category 5 Atlantic hurricane on record.

07/02/2024

Best wishes to Darcie MacMahon as she begins her retirement after an amazing 35 years of service at the Florida Museum of Natural History, including the past ten years as Director of Exhibits and Public Programs. Jaret Daniels, curator at the museum’s McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, is now serving as interim director.

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — After a decorated 35-year career at the Florida Museum of Natural History, Darcie MacMahon has announced her retirement as director of exhibits and public programs, effective July 1. “I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished at the museum. I’ve seen a lot of change in 35 ...

06/29/2024

The ASTC office will be closed July 1–5. We look forward to responding when we return on July 8.

06/28/2024

The 75-foot-long sauropod fossil that will greet visitors at the NHM Commons when it opens this fall has a name. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County has announced that Gnatalie beat out four other names in a public poll.

The 75ft-long sauropod fossil will go on prominent display when the museum’s new entry pavilion opens this autumn

06/28/2024

Thanks to the many who have already submitted nominations for ASTC’s Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards. If you haven’t finished yours yet, good news: we’re able to extend the deadline to Friday, July 5.

Please lift up achievements and individuals who represent the best of our field, including projects at all stages of development. https://www.astc.org/awards

06/28/2024

In a new Dimensions article, Rachael Van Schoik shares how finding “pockets of yes,” nurturing growth, and sharing joy leads to successful partnerships. Her work on a state-wide, high-impact partnership between the California Academy of Sciences’ Science Action Club (SAC) and Think Together, a California-based nonprofit, brought nature engagement to their expanded learning programs across California. Rachael served as SAC Program Manager from 2019 to 2024.

How finding “pockets of yes,” nurturing growth, and sharing joy lead to successful partnerships As a seasoned conference presenter and exhibitor, I always joke that the lull between conference sessions is “introvert hour” when people can engage with booths and vendors at their own pace. I’...

06/26/2024

Join more than 80 organizations that have already reserved their place in the Exhibit Hall. Only limited space remains, so reserve your booth now!

06/25/2024

The CEO Forum Group’s Museum Talk speaks with Erin Graham, President and CEO of the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and Chair-Elect of the ASTC Board of Directors. She talks about the history and future of OMSI, including a new OMSI District for arts, innovation, culture, indigenous communities, and science learning; the trusted role of museums in their regions; Seeding Action; and wine. https://theceoforumgroupinstitute.com/audio/erin-graham-president-ceo-oregon-museum-of-science-and-industry-omsi-museum-talk-ep-2/

06/25/2024

ASTC’s President and CEO Christofer Nelson had the opportunity to visit the Deutsches Museum in Germany, meet with Director General Wolfgang M. Heckl, and hear about how they’re keeping up with the accelerating pace of change in science and technology. Thanks also to Director of Research Johannes-Geert Hagmann for showing Christofer around the museum’s renovated exhibits and talking about all of their inspiring work.

06/25/2024

A new book from writer Bob Eckstein—Footnotes from the Most Fascinating Museums: Stories and Memorable Moments from People Who Love Museums—includes several ASTC members among the 75 highlighted museums in North America: American Museum of Natural History, Field Museum, Greenfield Village at The Henry Ford, Intrepid Museum, La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, and the Smithsonian. He recently spoke with The New York Times about his experience.

Is the Mob Museum on your list? The writer and illustrator sees his new guide to North America’s museums as a way to help families plan their summer vacations.

06/25/2024

+1 from ASTC. We echo this sentiment and send our support to our Canadian colleagues and to the people of Ontario who are missing the chance to engage with science at this beloved institution.

We at CASC are thinking of the staff, volunteers, members and visitors of the Ontario Science Centre following the news of the immediate closure. For 55 years, this cherished institution has inspired a joy of learning for millions of curious visitors in Ontario, from across Canada, and around the world. They have been leaders in informal science education, and have made a tremendous contribution to expanding Canada’s science community.

We are glad to know that they will continue to deliver innovative science experiences virtually, through pop-up experiences, and at interim locations as they await their new home. Until then, CASC will always be here in support of our colleagues through this time of change.

For more details, please visit their website: https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/important-announcement

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À l'ACCS, nous avons une pensée pour le personnel, les bénévoles, les membres et les visiteur·euse·s du Centre des sciences de l'Ontario à la suite de l'annonce de sa fermeture immédiate. Depuis 55 ans, cette institution phare a suscité l’envie d'apprendre à des millions de visiteur·euse·s curieux·ses de l'Ontario, du Canada et du monde entier. Le Centre a été un chef de file dans la vulgarisation scientifique et a contribué de manière remarquable à l'expansion de la capitale scientifique du Canada.

Nous sommes heureux·ses de savoir que des expériences scientifiques innovantes vont continuer à être proposées de manière virtuelle, par le biais d'expériences pop-up, et dans des lieux temporaires en attendant leur nouvelle maison. D'ici là, l'ACCS sera toujours là pour soutenir nos collègues dans cette période de changement.

Pour plus de détails, veuillez visiter leur site web : https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/important-announcement

06/25/2024

The Exploration Place in Prince George, British Columbia, has named Alyssa Leier as its new Executive Director. Alyssa has served as Curator at the museum for the past eight years, part of more than 11 years at The Exploration Place, where she has helped lead the museum’s decolonization and repatriation efforts and the development of a strong and trusting relationship with the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation community. She succeeds Tracy Calogheros, who is retiring after 20 years at the helm.

The Exploration Place is thrilled to announce the appointment of Alyssa Leier as its new Executive Director. Alyssa will be taking over for Tracy Calogheros, who is retiring after 20 years at the helm.

06/24/2024

Only a few days left to submit nominations for ASTC’s Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards!

Don’t delay in lifting up achievements and individuals who exemplify excellence in our field. Nominations for the re-envisioned 2024 awards close this Friday, June 28.

Learn more at https://www.astc.org/awards

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https://www.astc.org/

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Videos

ASTC50 - Reid Wiseman

NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, who will serve as commander for the upcoming NASA Artemis II mission, offers this thank you to the Maryland Science Center for sparking his imagination and motivating him to pursue engineering. And inviting him back after 165 days on the International Space Station to inspire a new generation of students and teachers. Whether you've been to space or not, how did a science center help inspire your life or career? Share your #ASTC50 story at http://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - Kenneth Monjero

Kenneth Monjero, the Director of Science Centre Kenya, describes the impact that his organization has had in bringing science throughout Kenya, including in rural areas. As he says, "Science centers: the only way to go." What do you think is the impact of science centers and museums? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - Paul Martin

Paul Martin of the Center for Innovation in Informal STEM Learning at Arizona State University says that the biggest change our field has seen in his career is the recognition that the ultimate authority in our engagements is the visitor, as they are who make the visitor experience for themselves. What is the biggest change you've seen or helped foster? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - Rep. Chrissy Houlahan

Thanks to U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), one of the few engineers in Congress, for discussing the importance of science centers and museums, including the Reading Public Museum in her district. She also shares some of her STEM education priorities in Congress. Whether you're an elected official or not, please share your #ASTC50 story on the impact of science centers at https://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - Anil Menon

Medical doctor, flight surgeon, and NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration astronaut Anil Menon was inspired to do his job because of a formative visit to the Science Museum of Minnesota when he was six years old. What convinced you to pursue a career in science or science engagement? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - Keith Ostfeld

Keith Ostfeld of Children's Museum Houston says that the future of our field is going to be about personalization and the use of #AI in a positive way to customize experiences to each individual. What do you think the future will bring? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - Anne Fullenkamp

The biggest change that Anne Fullenkamp at Children's Museum of Pittsburgh has seen is more conversation about feelings and empathy, including very young children talking about important topics in ways that give them agency and have their opinions respected and even teach adults. What's the biggest change you've seen in our field? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - Stan Love

Thanks to NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Astronaut Stan Love for his detailed story about formative visits to Eugene Science Center, Pacific Science Center, and Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). He says that too many kids lose their interest in science and technology, but "science museums both great and small, reinforce kids' inclination toward nature and science." You don't have to have been to space to describe the impacts of science centers and museums. Share your #ASTC50 story at http://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - Daniel Bellinger

Daniel Bellinger of North Country Children's Museum in Upstate New York, talks about his impactful collaborations with tribal communities along the Canada-U.S. border, including with the Akwesasne Boys & Girls Club. How does your work impact you and your community. Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan

Thank you to National Science Foundation (NSF) Director Sethuraman Panchanathan for his important words on the impact of science centers and museums and the way they excite, educate, and inspire future generations of discoverers and innovators. As Dr. Panch says, "it only takes one exhibit or display to change someone's life, and museums have been an intricate part of cultivating not only my curiosity, but the curiosity of billions of people around the world." Share YOUR #ASTC50 story about the impact of science centers and museums at https://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - Megan McArthur

NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Astronaut Megan McArthur, who also serves as Chief Science Officer at Space Center Houston, thinks of space as a "gateway science," helping light a spark and make personal connections to space exploration. She believes that the people who will work and live on Mars someday are having memorable experiences in our science centers today. How do you see the impact of science centers? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - Lynnea Jackson

Lynnea Jackson was inspired to become a paleontologist because of a formative visit to the Field Museum when she was 7. More than 15 years later, she's now earning her PhD in paleontology and had the chance to return to the Field Museum, this time as a researcher. What spurred you to become a scientist, educator, or engagement professional? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/science-center-stories.

ASTC50 - Beata Mierzwa

Molecular biology, artist, and IF/THEN® Ambassador Beata Mierzwa is honored to be working with museums to see firsthand the "impacts that these amazing institutions can make." What impacts do science centers make and what impacts should they make? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50

ASTC50 - Robert Firmhofer

Robert Firmhofer, the co-founder and CEO of Centrum Nauki Kopernik in Warsaw, Poland—as well as ASTC Secretary-Elect—describes the many ways that his organization has grown and expanded but what hasn't changed is the spark in the eyes of visitors and the collective work of our field to face shared challenges together. What changes have you seen in our field and what hopes do you have for the future? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - Elizabeth Mulkerrin

Elizabeth Mulkerrin tells how she went from a landlocked kid in Nebraska who wanted to be a marine biologist to become Vice President of Education at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and president of the National Science Teaching Association. How did you find your path in science engagement? Share your #ASTC50 story at http://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - COSI

Thanks for the good wishes, COSI - Center of Science and Industry! We share your vision for a bold future and look forward to getting there together. What's your vision for the future? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - Susan Yeagley and Kevin Nealon

Kevin Nealon and Susan Yeagley may be funny professionally, but they're serious about the importance of science museums. As they say, science museums help engage kids and families in science, but do so in a fun and playful way. Go science! Are you a TV or movie star with a story to share about science centers and museums? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/science-center-stories

ASTC50 - Patrick Hamilton

Patrick Hamilton of Science Museum of Minnesota, one of our field's experts on climate change and sustainability, envisions a world where science centers and science museums are providing leadership on climate mitigation, adaptation, and action. How do you think that science centers will lead on important issues? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.

ASTC50 - Paul Orselli

Museum exhibit developer Paul Orselli of POW! (Paul Orselli Workshop, Inc.) credits his parents for taking him to museums as a kid, pointing the way to his future career. What motivated you to pursue your career? Share your #ASTC50 story at http://www.astc.org/astc50.

As ASTC enters its sixth decade, our field is far from static. Lin Erickson of Da Vinci Science Center describes how her museum is preparing to open its new facility that is helping to revitalize downtown Allentown, while centering accessibility, partnering with local schools, and bringing together science and art. What is your vision for the science center of the future and of today? Share your #ASTC50 story at https://www.astc.org/astc50.