“Our Planet, Our Future” Celebrates Earth with Programming on Conservancy and the Oceans as Axalta Displays 2023 Global Automotive Color of the Year, “Techno Blue”
Detroit, Mich., April 12, 2023 – The Michigan Science Center (Mi-Sci) and Axalta Coating Systems are joining to commemorate Earth Day with “Our Planet, Our Future,” a Community Free Day on Saturday, April 22 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Special programming will include a focus on conservation and our planet, and Axalta will feature its 2023 Global Automotive Color of the Year, “Techno Blue.” The vibrant, hue-shifting shade inspired the day’s theme and programming. The event is also presented in partnership with Six Rivers Land Conservancy.
“It’s amazing to think that over 50 years ago, an astronaut in lunar orbit snapped a photo of the entire Earth from space that would not only change the way we view our planet, but also inspire a movement to save it,” said Dr. Christian Greer, president and CEO. “Today we know that movement as Earth Day, and I’m incredibly excited to help celebrate and protect our planet Earth as we promote conservation with our friends from Axalta and Six Rivers Land Conservancy.”
Some of the activities and exhibits include:
● Amazing Astronomy – a stage show on how the laws of physics change between Earth and outer space, exploring Newton’s third Law of Motion, the effects of existing in a vacuum and the usefulness of a gyroscope in space.
● Waves of Light – a hands-on activity using diffraction grating to observe how different types of light and colors are created using different wavelengths.
● Build the Change – participants will use LEGOs to create an object or building capable of growing or integrating plants in a public space.
● The Power of Blue: Ocean Acidification – a demonstration on how pollution and carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere harm the oceans and their ecosystems.
● Nature Inspired Technology – activities throughout the museum will demonstrate technology that has been inspired by nature, including wind turbines, Velcro and paint.
● Solar Scopes – solar telescopes outside the museum will allow visitors to safely observe the surface of the sun.
“Axalta has been a proud supporter of Mi-Sci for several years through our Axalta Bright Futures program,” said Dan Naugle, vice president, Mobility Americas at Axalta, and board of directors for Mi-Sci. “We’re committed to making a positive impact in the communities where our employees live, work and raise their families. I’m excited to host the Community Free Day on Earth Day and share our passion for innovation, better living and a sustainable future.”
In addition to the Earth Day activities, guests will have access to the center’s hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, a Smithsonian Spark!Lab, STEM Playground and more, plus the Level Up exhibit
exploring the relationship between science and games. Tickets to the Toyota 4D Engineering Theater will be available for purchase at the box office.
Tickets for Community Free Day may be reserved starting on April 12 and will be released in waves. While they are free, visitors are encouraged to make reservations in advance. Please visit this link to make reservations.
About The Michigan Science Center
The Michigan Science Center (Mi-Sci) is a Smithsonian affiliate that inspires nearly 250,000 curious minds of all ages every year through STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) discovery, innovation and interactive education in Detroit and across Michigan. As a STEM hub, Mi-Sci focuses on developing and introducing expanded education programs, exhibits and initiatives to empower and enrich our children and community. Through their Traveling Science Program and distance learning initiative, ECHO Live!, Mi-Sci is expanding beyond its Detroit-based facility, with a goal of reaching all 83 counties of Michigan. With the Toyota Engineering 4D Theater, live science demonstrations, lab activities and 220+ interactive exhibits, there are dozens of ways to customize your Mi-Sci visit. The Michigan Science Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and does not receive funding from Detroit or the state of Michigan. For more information, please call 313.577.8400 or visit the website, Mi-Sci.org.
About Axalta
Axalta is a global leader in the coatings industry, providing customers with innovative, colorful, beautiful and sustainable coatings solutions. From light vehicles, commercial vehicles and refinish applications to electric motors, building facades and other industrial applications, our coatings are designed to prevent corrosion, increase productivity and enhance durability. With more than 150 years of experience in the coatings industry, the global team at Axalta continues to find ways to serve our more than 100,000 customers in over 140 countries better every day with the finest coatings, application systems and technology. For more information visit axalta.com and follow us on LinkedIn and @axalta on Twitter.