On Friday, October 13, the Academy opened five floors of exhibits, labs, and collections–but only to members–for a hands-on evening of exclusive access to science. Fondly called Members’ Night, this once-a-year event is the perfect time for our researchers, scientists, and educators to share exciting activities that showcase what they do every day!
With new and different things to do every year, this event is among the reasons we think the Academy’s membership is one of the best family memberships in Philly. Members get the chance to meet our staff, see our collections and labs, and experience important research in action. Here are some highlights in case you missed this year’s Members’ Night or are deciding whether to purchase a membership this holiday season:
Explore the Dioramas
Members wanting to investigate our dioramas up close got to explore three of our North America dioramas using green screen technology–and they have the photos to prove it!
The Great Insect Pumpkin Patch
We pulled out the most orange, green, and black insect specimens from our collection to display at our insect “pumpkin patch.” Members also got the chance to learn about cannibal caterpillars and vampire moths!
Bird Specimen Preparation
Have you ever wondered how our scientists prepare the specimens for our collection? This year our ornithologists demonstrated how they prepare bird specimens and collect valuable biodiversity data for the museum’s scientific collections.
Make Your Own Herbarium
When visiting the Botany Collection, members got to learn how 1.2 million specimens in the Academy’s herbarium are cared for, and they even got to prepare their own herbariums to take home!
Want to join us for Members’ Night next year? All you have to do is purchase a membership! Membership at the Academy of Natural Sciences gives you free year-round general admission to the museum, where you’ll see some of the most surprising and spectacular wonders of the natural world. With exclusive early access to exhibits, program discounts, Members’ Night, and more, membership at the Academy is an exciting, educational family bonding experience.
By Liyah Desher