10/12/2008

On October 11th, Roper Mountain Science Center presented the exciting, hands-on interdisciplinary learning event, Star Wars: Science, Myth and Imagination. Based on the premise that students become actively involved in learning when the learning is relevant, imaginative and engaging, this exhibition provided something for visitors of all ages. Through interactive displays created by students and faculty, guests became immersed in science history and cultural studies as they explored that famous galaxy far, far away.

Sharing Mythology Connections

Throughout the science center, numerous activities drew parallels between George Lucas’ fantasy world and that of our own. Visitors tried their hands at operating their own robot at the “Mission to Mars” table and through hands-on activities discovered how mag-lev trains and hovercraft work. Other displays revealed the similarities between the fighter craft of Star Wars’ galactic battles and real-world fighter jets and helicopters flown by our modern-day heroes. Beyond science and technology, visitors learned how the Star Wars saga compares to ancient myths from around the world as they sought to answer the question, “What is a hero?” Furthermore, there were displays that revealed the real-world influences upon this fictional universe, from the films of the American western to the history of the Roman Empire. Meanwhile, the normal activities of the center were available as well, including the touch-tanks in the marine science lab and the ever-popular living history farm.

Thomas calms security by reminding the Scout that "they're just kids."

Visitors not only benefited from an exciting day of learning adventures but were also able to support the Make-a-Wish Foundation of South Carolina in honor of Katie Johnson. Katie, a beautiful and vivacious seven year old, lost her heroic battle with brain cancer in 2005. Her special friend, the fully-operating droid (and cast member from The Clone Wars), R2-KT, was an honored guest at the event along with numerous members of the 501st Legion, the world’s premiere Star Wars costuming group as they portrayed stormtroopers, clonetroopers, TIE piolts, Imperial guards, biker scouts and other popular characters from the films. These dedicated volunteers thrilled children and adults alike! Adding to the adventure, children wore their own costumes and participated in a terrific costume contest.

Visitors were also able to take a deeper look at Star Wars by visiting the Barnes & Noble book fair in the Hall of Science and lunches were provided on location by Chic-fil-A Pelham Road. A portion of the proceeds from both companies was donated to South Carolina Make-A-Wish.

It was an exciting and truly amazing day and resulted in a new Second Saturday attendance record with a crowd of 2, 248 guests! If you missed the fun, don’t worry…an encore presentation, bigger and better than before, is planned for April of 2010. Until then, May the Force be with you!!

Event Pictures
Members of the 501st Carolina Garrison	R2-KT
R2-KT	The Make-A-Wish Foundation gets assistance with acquiring donations
Build-A-Droid Display	Lego Display
Prosthetics Display	Tusken Raiders arrive to scavenge
Mauldin High Robotics	Mauldin High Robotics
World War II Connections	Mythology Connections
Mag-Lev Demonstration	Rocketry Demonstration
Mission to Mars	A Mini Speederbike
Star Wars Memrobilia Display	Star Wars Memrobilia Display
Our Event Security Force	Our Event Security Force