Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

UNC Science Expo
2023-04-01 11:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Join us for one of the biggest celebrations of science in the state!

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, in partnership with the students and faculty at UNC, celebrate science with our community.

This annual celebration of science features more than 100 hands-on activities and science demonstrations lead by STEM students, researchers, and practitioners from UNC-Chapel Hill. The UNC Science Expo is your chance to get up close and personal with cutting edge science hands-on activities, demonstrations, games, and performances.

The UNC Science Expo is a signature event of the North Carolina Science Festival.

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Spot, an agile mobile robot from Boston Dynamics wows the crowd Morehead Planetarium and Science Center as part of UNC Science Expo, Saturday, April 9, 2022.

UNC Science Expo
2024-04-06 11:00 - 16:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
One of the largest celebrations of science in North Carolina returns on April 6!

As a signature event of the North Carolina Science Festival, the UNC Science Expo features over 100 booths, hands-on activities, games, science demonstrations, food trucks, and behind-the-scenes lab tours.

At this year’s Expo, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center will also celebrate its 75th anniversary by bringing more excitement, including discounts from Franklin St. businesses, stage performances, prizes, and more. Come celebrate all the hard work and research of UNC scientists right here on campus!

More about the Expo

Science for All: A Sensory-Friendly Science Night
2024-11-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Join Us at Science for All: A Sensory-Friendly Science Night!

Experience the wonders of science in a sensory-friendly environment! On Saturday, November 23, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center will host a special event featuring interactive activities, engaging fulldome theater shows, captivating exhibits, and dynamic science performances. With changes made to fit various sensory sensitivities, this event is perfect for all ages and offers a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy science.

Learn More

UNC Science Expo
2025-04-05 11:00 - 16:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Join us for one of the biggest science celebrations in the state!

Every year, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center hosts a day of science learning and fun for our community in partnership with UNC-Chapel Hill faculty, students, and staff.

The UNC Science Expo is a signature event of the annual North Carolina Science Festival and one of the biggest celebrations of science in the state. More than 100 booths staffed by UNC-Chapel Hill students, researchers, practitioners, and community volunteers fill the quads surrounding Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. From hands-on activities and games to science demonstrations and behind-the-scenes lab tours, the UNC Science Expo makes learning about science fun and engaging for people of all ages.

Spot, an agile mobile robot from Boston Dynamics, wows the crowd at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center as part of the UNC Science Expo on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

Learn More About the UNC Science Expo

UNC Science Expo Parking

If you are attending the UNC Science Expo and plan to drive, please allow extra time for parking due to limited options caused by the Expo and other events in Chapel Hill. Please note that the parking lot in front of Morehead Planetarium and Science Center (250 E Franklin Street) will be closed on April 5.

For campus parking options, please visit https://maps.unc.edu/parking/. Parking is also available in town lots and on the street, but public parking fees may apply. For more information about Town of Chapel Hill parking options, visit https://parkonthehill.com/.

Accessible parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Old East lot, located on E Cameron Ave between the New East and Old East buildings. A drop-off zone will be available at the Morehead lot throughout the event.

Saturday Science Sparks: Stellar Gaming with UNC’s Young Worlds Lab
2026-01-10 13:00 - 16:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Explore with the experts during Saturday Science Sparks

Want to think like an astronomer? In our first-ever Saturday Science Sparks, UNC’s Young Worlds Lab will be in the Hidden Lives of Stars exhibit—ready to explore the cosmos with you! These astronomers, featured in the exhibit, will take visitors of all ages on their journey of discovery. Study the stars, ask questions, try science tools, and leave inspired!

Located at the Hidden Lives of Stars exhibit in the Polaris Gallery.

MORE is happening at Morehead this year

New for 2026, Saturday Science Sparks offers Morehead guests a closer encounter with current science. Covering topics like astronomy, the physics of juggling, and computer science, this program collaborates with community partners and academic clubs, bringing you up-close experiences in the exciting world of STEAM. Saturday Science Sparks is open to the public and included in admission. Mark your calendars for the second Saturday of each month!

Saturday Science Sparks: The Science of Puppy Love
2026-02-14 11:00 - 15:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
(Megan Mendenhall / Office of Research Communications)

Can humans love robotic dogs?

This Valentine’s Day, experience puppy love with Spot, UNC-Chapel Hill’s very own robot dog! Take the reigns and bring this computerized canine to “life,” while discovering the inner workings of how it moves and “thinks.” With the help of UNC’s Experimental Engineering Lab (EEL) and the Interactive Robotics and Novel Technologies (IRON) Lab, you’ll be able to explore how scientists and engineers craft robots to engage with the world. Join us as these incredible labs share their work, answer your burning questions, and offer a behind-the-scenes look at life as a scientist!

Located in the Ivan R. King Gateway Gallery.

MORE is happening at Morehead this year

New for 2026, Saturday Science Sparks offers Morehead guests a closer encounter with current science. Covering topics like astronomy, the physics of juggling, and computer science, this program collaborates with community partners and academic clubs, bringing you up-close experiences in the exciting world of STEAM. Saturday Science Sparks is open to the public and included in admission. Mark your calendars for the second Saturday of each month!

Learn more about Saturday Science Sparks

Art in Bloom Community Experience
2026-02-27 14:30 - 2026-03-01 18:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Interpreting the zodiac element of fire

Friday, February 27 – Sunday, March 1

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is thrilled to help kick off the North Carolina Museum of Art’s (NCMA) annual Art in Bloom, presented by PNC Bank, as a 2026 Community Activation Partner! In the spirit of the NCMA’s commitment to Art for All, visitors can experience a stunning outdoor floral installation at Morehead from February 27 through March 1. Designed by Durham floral artist Adama Jay‑Harrison and her team at Lavish Leaf, the installation interprets the zodiac element of fire, creating a striking fusion of artistic imagination and science-inspired storytelling. This large-scale creation will frame Morehead’s Main Entrance, offering a vibrant and welcoming start to Art in Bloom festivities across the Triangle.

To complement the installation, Morehead educators will present special fire-themed demonstrations on the Science Stage throughout the day on Saturday, February 28. Guests can explore how fire works as a chemical reaction that releases energy as heat and light, and watch a classic “flame test” experiment that reveals how different elements produce different colors.

Community Experience Schedule

Friday, February 27: Floral installation opens

Saturday, February 28: Fire-themed science demonstrations

Sunday, March 1: Floral installation closes

Looking for other ways to engage with Morehead and NCMA?

On Saturday, March 14, we’ll join the NCMA and Raleigh Astronomy Club in the Museum Park for a free, family-friendly evening of skywatching. Learn more about the skywatching session.

Science for All Youth Summit
2026-03-07 09:00 - 12:30 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Explore STEM in new and exciting ways!

Saturday, March 7, 2026 | 9 AM – 12:30 PM

Registration closes on March 1

Join us for a fun-filled day of STEM exploration! Designed for students in grades 4–7 from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds, the Science for All Youth Summit offers hands-on activities led by college students from UNC‑Chapel Hill, NC State, and Duke. Past favorites include microscope discoveries, lemon-powered circuits, and biomechanics challenges.

Registration includes lunch, swag, and an event t‑shirt.

Thanks to the generous support of Gilead Sciences, this program remains accessible for families.

Come experiment, create, and discover something new!

Register for the Youth Summit today! Registration is open until March 1.

Learn more about the Youth Summit

Saturday Science Sparks — The Science of Attention: Juggling 101
2026-03-07 10:00 - 16:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Via Instagram, @juggling.club.unc

The Science of Attention: Juggling 101

Too many balls in the air? Join the Juggling Club of Carolina and the Educating for the Virtues of Attention initiative as they demonstrate the math, physics, focus, and fun behind juggling. On top of helping us keep our eyes (and minds) on the ball, this Saturday Science Sparks session offers a hands-on, in-motion opportunity for the whole family! Only at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.

Schedule

10:00 am to 12:00 pm

2:30 pm to 4:00 pm

Located in the Ivan R. King Gateway Gallery

Please note: there will be a midday break as the club members juggle their schedules.

MORE is happening at Morehead this year

New for 2026, Saturday Science Sparks offers Morehead guests a closer encounter with current science. Covering topics like astronomy, the physics of juggling, and computer science, this program collaborates with community partners and academic clubs, bringing you up-close experiences in the exciting world of STEAM. Saturday Science Sparks is open to the public and included in admission.

Skywatching: Art in Bloom Skygazing Community Day
2026-03-14 19:30 - 21:30 | North Carolina Museum of Art — Museum Park, 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27607
Interpreting the zodiac element of air

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is excited to serve as a Community Activation Partner for Art in Bloom, an annual experience by the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA). In harmony with this year’s zodiac theme, we’re highlighting the element of air with a free evening of skywatching in the NCMA Museum Park.

On Saturday, March 14, join us for guided stargazing led by Morehead educators, constellation‑inspired activities, and an outdoor floral installation crafted by Raleigh’s Bloom Works. This special night brings together art and astronomy for a beautiful, family‑friendly experience under the open sky. Complimentary Art in Bloom giveaways will be offered while supplies last. The floral installation will remain on view through March 18.

Online registration opens March 1 on the NCMA website. We look forward to celebrating the cosmos with you!

Learn more

Before You Go: Helpful Tips & Important Details

To make the most of your evening under the stars, we suggest bringing a cozy blanket or some chairs. For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your pets at home, even if they’re on a leash. The combination of darkness, crowds, expensive telescopes, and pets isn’t ideal, and pets won’t be allowed near the telescopes.

Please note that this event is weather-dependent. In the event of a cancellation, we will provide updates on our website and social media. We can’t wait to share the wonders of the night sky with you!

Have more questions about skywatching? Visit our FAQs page!

Skywatching FAQs

UNC Science Expo
2026-04-11 11:00 - 16:00 | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27516, United States
Join us for one of the biggest science celebrations in the state!

Every year, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center hosts a day of science learning and fun for our community in partnership with UNC-Chapel Hill faculty, students, and staff.

The UNC Science Expo is a signature event of the annual North Carolina Science Festival and one of the biggest celebrations of science in the state. More than 100 booths staffed by UNC-Chapel Hill students, researchers, practitioners, and community volunteers fill the quads surrounding Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. From hands-on activities and games to science demonstrations and behind-the-scenes lab tours, the UNC Science Expo makes learning about science fun and engaging for people of all ages.

Spot, an agile mobile robot from Boston Dynamics, wows the crowd at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center as part of the UNC Science Expo on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

Learn More About the UNC Science Expo

UNC Science Expo Parking

If you are attending the UNC Science Expo and plan to drive, please allow extra time for parking due to limited options caused by the Expo and other events in Chapel Hill. Please note that the parking lot in front of Morehead Planetarium and Science Center (250 E Franklin Street) will be closed on April 11.

For campus parking options, please visit maps.unc.edu/parking/. Parking is also available in town lots and on the street, but public parking fees may apply. For more information about Town of Chapel Hill parking options, visit parkonthehill.com.

Accessible parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Old East lot, located on E Cameron Ave between the New East and Old East buildings. A drop-off zone will be available at the Morehead lot throughout the event.
