Science Outreach

The Robert H. N. Ho Science Center conducts significant science outreach at Colgate. School groups from throughout central New York visit during the year.

Students perform hands-on activities in the Ho Tung Visualization Laboratory, the greenhouse, Linsley Geology Museum, and other areas of the Ho Science Center.

Facilities

Students observe the night sky in the Ho Tung Visualization Lab

Ho Tung Visualization Laboratory and Planetarium
The state-of-the-art 55-seat digital theater has the ability to display the sky showing planets, constellations, and other astronomical objects as well as immerse the audience in a full-dome experience like no other.
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Robert M. Linsley Geology Museum
The Robert M. Linsley Geology Museum exhibits minerals, rocks, and fossils, highlighting the beauty and wonder of these objects while also informing visitors about how geologists study the Earth. Threaded throughout the museum is a specific focus on what we know about New York State's geologic past.
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The Colgate Greenhouse
Our state-of-the-art greenhouse houses an extensive collection that consists of approximately 1000 species. It includes ferns, orchids, cycads, cactus/succulents, bromeliads/epiphytes, plants of economic importance, and flowering vines in approximately 1800 sq. ft. under glass.
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Activities and Demonstrations

Below is a list of activities the science outreach center offers to school groups. They are based on grade level and are aligned to New York state learning standards.

Students participating in group activities

Grades Pre K–1
Solar System, a night sky talk

Grades 1–2
Solar System/The Changing Earth: A look at the night sky; Linsley Geology Museum scavenger hunt

Grades 2–4
Solar System: A look at the night sky; meteorites show and tell

Grades 3–4
Energy: Van der Graaf generator

Grades 5–6
Evolution: Paleontological dig; Linsley Geology Museum fossil scavenger hunt

Solar System: Make a comet; night sky talk; meteorite display/Linsley Geology Museum

Forces: bottle rockets, can crush

Grades 7+
Evolution: paleontological dig; Linsley Geology Museum

Solar System: night sky talk; meteorite display/Linsley Geology Museum

Plant/The Changing Earth/Matter: greenhouse tour/make cytoplasm; Linsley Geology Museum

Energy: Van der Graaf generator

Useful Links

Astronomy guide for kids - thanks to Ashley & Ms.Ward's classroom from Delaware

Space & Science Centers, Astronomy Resources

Earth- and Space-Based Telescopes

Astronomy Image & Multimedia

Resources

Contact Information

Science Outreach Coordinator
315-228-6125
vislab@colgate.edu

School groups of students, teachers and chaperones cannot exceed 50 for visualization lab showings.

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