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Full-Spectrum Science with Ron Hipschman
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Free for Donors and Daytime Members.
Note: There is limited capacity for this program; seating will be made available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis.
Open your eyes to the physics of natural phenomena with Exploratorium scientist Ron Hipschman. In this dynamic series, surprising visuals, real-time and recorded experiments, and intriguing objects illuminate wide-ranging presentations on topics such as color, time, fireworks, science fiction, and the universe. Each program is focused for general or adults-only audiences, and conversation is encouraged to help everyone find the same wavelength.
Since joining the Exploratorium in 1971, Ron Hipschman has worked as an exhibit developer, author, teacher, and webcast host. He currently works on the Exploratorium’s Environmental Initiative, implementing and maintaining a collection of environmental monitoring sensors and developing visualizations for the Fisher Bay Observatory Gallery’s super-resolution media wall. In addition to Full-Spectrum Science, Ron hosts the monthly After Dark series Tales from the Periodic Table.
Past Programs
In 1905, Albert Einstein threw a monkey wrench in our perception of time and space. Join us as we examine a few of these quirks on a conceptual nonmathematical level. Yes, you can age slower than your twin!
In 1960, the laser was known as “a solution looking for a problem.” Now we can hardly imagine life without them. Learn what’s special about laser light, how it’s made, and how it’s used in everything from DVD players to eye surgery to fusion energy research.
What does the moon have to do with tides? When do lunar eclipses happen and why? Why is a growing moon called a waxing moon? Come learn the answers to these questions and more with staff scientist Ron Hipschman.
Come ooooo and ahhhh at the science behind these big booms! Where do fireworks come from? Who invented them? What causes their beautiful colors, and how do the bursting shells create such different patterns? Join us for some real illumination, and learn the difference between a jerb and a lance.
Why do you see yourself in reverse when you look at yourself in a mirror? Why are you not upside down? Exploratorium scientist Ron Hipschman reveals the physics behind different types of mirrors and reflects on fascinating aspects of their construction and applications.
What is sound? How high a pitch can you hear? Can you measure the speed of sound with a yardstick? Can two sounds add up to no sound? Explore these questions and more in this resonant presentation.
From exoplanets to space biology, what exists outside of planet earth has long exerted a pull on the human imagination. Come catch a glimpse into what lies ahead in the future of space exploration.
We tend to think of “home” as the building in which we live, or the town or city where we reside. Voyage to the edge of the known universe, and gain some perspective on the tiny planet we call home. See some of the amazing ways the universe is structured, and learn how it’s evolved.
When is one not enough? Look again at the surprising ways doubling quantities affects our perceptions and our world. This evening’s program will leave you seeing double.
Is growth always good? The biggest threat to our existence on planet Earth isn’t asteroids—it’s us. Why can’t our population continue to grow? Learn about the exponential function and the conclusions we can draw from it.
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