Demystifying Drones
Saturday, July 11 | 1 p.m.
Fee: $28 for General Admission, $5 for Seniors (65+)
Test your pilot skills with drone challenges guided by local experts, then discover how drones are used across McHenry County through live outdoor demonstrations, including:
- RC planes
- Search-and-rescue technology
- State police drone operations
- An up-close look at large agricultural drones
You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and learn more about the safety, privacy, and practical considerations surrounding drone technology. Light lunch and snacks provided.
Open to ages 18+ | Tickets: $28 for General Admission, $5 for Seniors (65+)
Presented in partnership with the Chain O’ Lakes Eagles RC Flying Club and assisted by experienced club members.
Natural Dyes: The Science of Color
Saturday, August 1 | 9 a.m.
Candy, laundry detergents, and school lunches are leaving artificial dyes behind. In this program, we will learn the difference between laboratory-made and natural dyes and explore the science behind the FDA initiative to phase out artificial dyes. Participants will bring home silk gift-wrapping cloths they dye and print on with local leaves, flowers, or mushrooms. Looking ahead, we’ll learn how engineers are partnering with biologists to grow vibrant colors directly into foods and fabrics using specialized living bacteria, eliminating the need for chemical dye baths.
Open to ages 14+ | Adults: $15 | Seniors (65+) and Youth (Ages 14–18, with an adult): $10
Programs Brought to You by LISI
The Science Behind It - Immersive Seminar Series
Join us for observation, discovery, and immersion into some of the most cutting-edge science topics. Hear from widely acclaimed experts in their fields across a variety of topics—a truly interactive, small-group experience.
LISI Speakers Series
LISI’s seminal speakers series brings cutting-edge science to the forefront of our community and collective consciousness. Interacting with leading researchers and visionaries in a venue for sharing ideas and fostering imagination is guaranteed to be inspirational. Presentations feature a meet-and-greet with guest speakers and refreshments.
Register for LISI EventsExhibits Brought to You by LISI
Hall of Human Origins
This stunning collection of hominin skulls from the Bone Clones® Hominid line includes the seldom-seen, fully articulated walking reconstruction of the 3.2-million-year-old skeleton " Lucy." Using published osteological data, a team of anatomical sculptors carefully recreated these detailed casts of fossil specimens in conjunction with anthropological consultants. The skulls are artistically and taxonomically arranged based on the current paleoanthropological record. The MCC Hall of Human Origins offers critical, objective insight into hominin evolution through a uniquely human exploration of the fossil evidence. This interactive exhibit is permanently displayed in the Life Sciences wing of the Liebman Science Center (Building F). Visit the Hall of Human Origins online
Other LISI-Sponsored Programs
Science Olympiad sponsor
LISI aims to make MCC the hub for Science Olympiad tournaments in Illinois. Learn about the Illinois Science Olympiad
MCC Planetarium
Showcases
MCC's planetarium offers 45 seats under a spectacular 8.3-meter dome with high-definition video in an immersive surround sound environment. The planetarium is available for students of all ages and the general public. See general admission show information
