Did you know that humans almost went extinct 90,000 to 70,000 years ago? Or that the 7 billion people on the planet today are virtually identical, genetically speaking? Trace the milestones of our species’ fascinating history in Human Odyssey, a dramatic new addition to Tusher African Hall opening today, Friday, February 8, 2013.

Occupying the west end of the hall, Human Odyssey features interactive displays, detailed fossil casts, and the latest scientific knowledge about the evolution of Homo sapiens—a still-unfolding story that began in Africa 7 million years ago. Highlights include:

• Faces from the past – Examine the skull casts of three early human species, then watch as fleshed-out reconstructions of their faces appear using “Pepper’s Ghost” optical illusion technology.
• Walking with Lucy – Compare the distinctive gaits of a chimpanzee, Australopithecus afarensis (the species of the famous “Lucy” skeleton), and a modern human.
• Interactive migration map – Use touchscreen stations to trace our species’ migration from its African origins over the past 70,000 years.
• Academy research – Learn about the work of noted Academy anthropologist Dr. Zeray Alemseged, whose notable discoveries are “Selam,” an exceptionally well-preserved A. afarensis fossil from 3.3 million years ago, and the earliest evidence to date of tool use and meat-eating by human ancestors.

 
Human Odyssey is generously supported by Pauline and Tom Tusher.

 
This spring, the Academy will also offer a suite of public programs related to Human Odyssey, including:

Live African Safari
Daily at 1:00 pm (February 1 – May 9, 2013)
Adventure through Africa and explore the amazing biodiversity of its animals and habitats. Included with Academy admission.



Fossil Forensics
Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 am (February 1 – May 9, 2013)
In this lab-based program, you will learn about recent discoveries that scientists have made in uncovering the story of “us,” and how they make sense of it all through DNA analysis and modern technology. Included with Academy admission.

What Makes Us Human?
Monday – Friday at 11:00 am (February 1 – May 9, 2013)
Follow the milestones in human evolution—upright walking, tool making, and symbolic thinking—while comparing the adaptations of early humans to our modern bodies. Included with Academy admission.

Pritzker Lecture: “Lucy” and “Selam” Climbed Trees, So What?
Dr. Zeray Alemseged, Irvine Chair of Anthropology, California Academy of Sciences
Wednesday, February 13 at 7:00 pm
Dr. Alemseged will discuss the evidence for climbing behavior in A. afarensis based on new analysis of his own find “Selam,” currently the most complete and earliest skeleton of a juvenile human ancestor. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, free for Academy members. Purchase tickets in advance online, or (415) 379-8000.

Out of Africa NightLife (ages 21+)
Thursday, February 28 from 6:00 – 10:00 pm
Every Thursday night, music, creatures and cocktails come together for NightLife at the Academy. This week, in honor of Human Odyssey, hear from a trio of Academy scientists who conduct fieldwork in Africa, and get an up-close look at magnificent African big cats. Music by the DJs and percussionists of Afrolicious. Tickets are $12, $10 for Academy members. Purchase tickets online, or at the door.

A new interactive display inviting visitors to rebuild the supercontinent Gondwana opens on Saturday, January 19 in the Earthquake: Life on a Dynamic Planet exhibit. The goal: work together to re-assemble the familiar puzzle pieces of our modern Southern Hemisphere into their original configuration circa 200 million years ago.

Why 200 million years ago? At that time, the Earth’s surface was massed into a single supercontinent called Pangaea—an enormous landmass surrounded by a single ocean. This supercontinent broke apart into two smaller land masses—Laurasia in the Northern Hemisphere and Gondwana in the Southern Hemisphere, which in turn broke apart into the continents we know today.

To help puzzle assemblers along, plant and animal distribution ranges which trace back to the Gondwana era are shown on the puzzle pieces. Once assembled, you’ll see how it’s possible for pouched mammals in Australia like kangaroos to be related to South American opossums, despite the vast oceans separating the populations today.

Up to five people can collaborate, using iPad 3s to direct puzzle pieces at their fingertips to rotate and move across an 85-inch plasma screen for all to see.

From December 26 to January 1, enjoy special “mad science,” improv comedy, or children’s music performances when you stop by the Academy to visit Orion and Polaris, our pair of live reindeer.* ‘Tis the Season for Science continues through January 6, 2013. See the full schedule of ‘Tis the Season for Science-themed programs by date, including these highlights:

 

Mad Science!
Performing at 12:30 and 2:30 on December 26 and 27
Mad Science of Mt. Diablo sparks the imagination and curiosity of children through fun, hands-on science programs. Their interactive presentation will be an exploration of the science of snow and the colors of the seasons.

 

Un-Scripted Theater Company
Performing at 12:30 and 2:30 on December 28, 30, 31, and January 1
Adorned in Victorian costumes, the talented comedians of the Un-Scripted Theater Company will perform a short musical play, mixing the Dickensian seasonal genre with a different genre chosen by the audience. The result will be a fun and absurd experience with quirky characters and sly narration. Not to be missed!

 

Essence
Performing at 12:30 and 2:30 on December 29
This local musician sings fun-loving songs geared to children about animals, nature, and being a kid with a catchy pop and rock sound.

 

 
*Remember, the Academy is closed on December 25.

It’s that time of year again! The Academy’s live reindeer, indoor snow flurries, and giant Snowman Theater are back for ‘Tis the Season for Science, which opens today. The exhibit will run through January 6, 2013.

This year’s theme is how animals adapt to the harsh conditions of winter—from birds and butterflies that migrate thousands of miles, to bears and beetles that hunker down and endure the cold. The Snowman Theater features a show about the science of our planet’s seasons, while mounted specimens of a polar bear, snow geese, California ground squirrel, and other animals illustrate one of two winter strategies—heading south or staying home.

A suite of holiday-themed programs, including quiz shows and live music and dance performances, will round out the festive atmosphere. Check the daily schedule, and be sure to enter the Name the Reindeer Contest before December 2.