Special Presentation: Leon Theremin's Secret Weapon

Saturday, June 29 - 1:30PM
Free with Museum Admission

How did a troop of Russian Boy Scouts become involved in a famous international spying incident?

What Russian spy invented a one-of-a-kind musical instrument, and what amazing thing does his instrument do?

Who was the American spy that was shot down over Soviet air space, and what was his connection to all this?

Find out in LEON THEREMIN'S SECRET WEAPON, hosted by Andrew Baron.

The presentation will include an introduction to Theremin's secret activities in the early years of the Cold War and feature a live demonstration of The Franklin Institute's own historic Theremin instrument. The presentation will conclude with a rare opportunity for volunteers from the audience to try their hand at playing, and responses to questions from the audience as time allows.

Andrew Baron is an historian and restorer of Theremin's rare original instruments, and has conducted research and repairs on The Franklin Institute's original 1929 Theremin, and Clara Rockmore's RCA Theremin at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix, Arizona. He is the co-host of the educational website RCATheremin.com, with his colleague Mike Buffington.

Night Skies in the Observatory

Thursday, July 11 - 7:00PM-10:00PM
Topic: TBA
Cost: $5.00 per person, Free for Members

About Night Skies in the Observatory
Hosted by Chief Astronomer at The Franklin Institute, Derrick Pitts, the Joel N. Bloom Observatory is open late to the public and offers 5 different telescopes for you to view celestial objects in the sky, including stars, planets, nebulae, and if conditions are right, a galaxy or two. The evening includes a Fels Planetarium show and a lecture or presentation (appropriate for ages 5 and up) on an astronomical or space science topic. The Observatory is staffed with knowledgeable observers and free star maps are provided. Meet some BIG STARS on the second Thursday of each month at The Franklin Institute! Admission is $5.00. Members are free. Advance reservations are not needed. Tickets are sold on-site when you arrive.

To learn more about the Joel N. Bloom Observatory, CLICK HERE.

Kitchen Science

Sunday, July 14 - 11:00AM-3:00PM
Jordan Lobby near Franklin Foodworks
Free with Museum Admission

Join The Franklin Institute Educators and Executive Chefs from Frog Commissary once a month as we examine topics in Kitchen Science. These fun- and flavor-filled events will engage you in an exploration of food science through hands-on, tastebud-activating activities that help you understand the science behind food and cooking. Stop by each month and by the end of 2013 you will be a Kitchen Science expert!

Science of Healthy Nutrition
Sunday, July 14
Your tummy isn't the only thing involved in eating. Learn how your brain plays a role in nutrition as you explore the science of healthy nutrition. We'll debunk the 5-second rule and give you the tools you need to keep your kitchen safe.

CLICK HERE for Kitchen Science information and activities to try at home.

Calling All Astronomers!

Rittenhouse Astronomical Society Monthly Meetings!
Bring all of your out-of-this-world questions!

Join The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM in the Fels Planetarium. The society offers all persons an opportunity to participate in the activities of an astronomical group at the layman's level. They aim to spread knowledge, awareness, and enjoyment of astronomy and astronomical issues. It is a popular science club that keeps its members up-to-date on the latest developments. No experience is necessary to attend the FREE meetings. Come with your astronomy questions! www.rittenhouseastronomicalsociety.org