Ontario Science Centre: Rockets, Robots & Rovers
Rev up for space robotics! From satellites to soil sampling to lunar mining, experience how technology is advancing space exploration.
Discover the latest developments in space exploration technologies, and meet researchers, scientists and engineers who work at the forefront in this sector. Featuring presentations and demonstrations by:
• Athena Integrated Systems Inc.
• Canadian Space Agency
• Deltion Innovations Ltd.
• First Robotics Canada
• Medical Physics Course Union (MPCU)
• National Resources Canada
• Western University
• Ryerson R3 Robotics
• Ryerson Science Society
• Taiga Robotics
• University of Toronto Aerospace Team (UTAT)
• York University
• Interactive Holograms
Meet a Robotics Flight Controller
August 17
How do astronauts get their jobs done in space? With a lot of help from a highly-trained flight control team on the ground, of course.
Hear from Kristen Facciol, an operations engineer and robotics flight controller for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), about her fascinating career—from training astronauts to use the Canadarm2 to designing robotics missions at Mission Control at NASA’s Johnson Space Center to encouraging the next generation of female engineers.
1:00pm
Rock Paper Science Hall
Level 6
End Effector Workshop
August 17
Construct a working model of a Latching End Effector, the dextrous “hand” of the Canadarm2, and perform “cosmic catches” to complete a space challenge.
Facilitated by Kristen Facciol, an operations engineer and robotics flight controller for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), who trains astronauts to use the Canadarm2.
Space is limited. First come, first served. Recommended for ages 8 and older.
2:30pm–3:30pm
Challenge Zone, Inside the Weston Family Innovation Centre
Level 6
Rover Exploration Challenge
August 17 & 18
Scientists needed for an important exploratory mission! Operate an analogue rover on a mystery planet in this simulated mission and use real data like radioactivity, surface gravity and water pH to determine its habitability.
Space limited. First come, first served. Recommended for ages 8 and older.
11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm & 4:00pm
Studio 2
Level 2
Learn Robot Code
August 17 & 18
Learn how to use the Virtual Robotics Toolkit, a robotics simulation software, to design, build and program virtual LEGO MINDSTORMS® creations—without the need for a physical robot!
Wobblebot
August 18
Make your very own Wobblebot, using a motor, a battery pack and colourful craft supplies, and watch it wobble through a maze.
This is a 20-minute, drop-in activity.
1:00pm-4:00pm
Challenge Zone, Weston Family Innovation Centre
Level 6
Who can attend: Everyone
Fee: Activities are included with regular admission. Parking is available for $10 per vehicle (member discount applies).
Registration: Not required
Organized by: Ontario Science Centre
Location: Ontario Science Centre