Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

UNC Science Expo
2024-04-06 11:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | 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

Saturday Science Sparks: Stellar Gaming with UNC’s Young Worlds Lab
2026-01-10 13:00 - 16:00
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
(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
