Science at Sunset: Plastic Planet

Science at Sunset: plastic planet

Saturday, October 21
1601 E University Blvd.
6PM to 10PM

Join us for our next Science at Sunset series and learn more about the impact of plastics and chemicals on our water and environment as well as the potential of problem-solving solutions.

This evening event features a special talk by Bo Guo, Ph.D (UArizona Assistant Professor for Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences), full-dome planetarium shows, a live star talk show, evening science exhibits, telescopes, and fun activities for people of all ages.

Learn more in the Schedule of Events section below.

Science at Sunset tickets

All-inclusive advance ticket - $20

Flandrau members are $10

  • Admission for science center exhibits and activities
  • Planetarium Presentation with Dr. Guo - "Forever Chemicals' in Our Waters"
  • Full-dome Planetarium show - "Expedition Reef"
  • Live planetarium astronomy star talk - "Tucson Sky"

A la carte tickets for exhibits or shows may be available, in person, at the front entrance during the event if tickets are still available. Seating is first come, first serve and some shows may sell out. An all-inclusive ticket guarantees you a seat to the presentation and all shows.

Schedule of Events

Flandrau staff in exhibit hall
6 to 10PM - Science Exhibits Open

Explore the marvels of the universe from the intricate world of insects to Earth's diverse oceans with Flandrau's science exhibits.

  • $5 on the night of the event
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket
Bo Guo

6:30PM - Forever Chemicals in Our Waters: What to Know and Why It Matters

Educational presentation in the planetarium theater

Bo Guo, Ph.D (UArizona Assistant Professor for Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences) will talk about the history of PFAS, their occurrence in the environment and water systems, the potential impact on human health, and what we could do to solve the problem. 

  • $5 per person during the event (subject to availability)
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket
Telescopes on the UA Mall

7:30 to 10PM - Telescope Viewing

(Weather permitting)

Take a break outside to peek through telescopes at points of interest in the night sky. Telescopes will be available for viewing on the lawn in front of Flandrau from 7:30 to 10PM.

  • Free for everyone
  • Subject to weather
Expedition Reef Planetarium Show poster square

8:15PM - Expedition Reef

Fulldome show

Learn the secrets of the “rainforests of the sea” as you embark on an oceanic safari of the world’s most vibrant—and endangered—marine ecosystems. Immerse yourself in the undersea adventure and, along the way, discover how corals grow, feed, reproduce, and support over 25% of all marine life on Earth—while facing unprecedented threats to their habitats.

  • $5 per person during the event (subject to availability)
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket
Operator in Flandrau Planetarium

9PM - Tucson Sky

Live planetarium star talk

Take a relaxing look at the night sky as we give you a guided tour of the stars, planets, constellations, and current astronomical events above Tucson. This live star talk is constantly changing!

  • $5 per person during the event (subject to availability)
  • Included with advance purchase of all-inclusive ticket