STEM Nova at U of M Museum of Natural History-Ann Arbor
The online registration closes for this event on March 28, 2026
Cub Scout STEM NOVA - Fearful Symmetry
See how symmetry affects your life each day. Observe symmetry in nature, learn about symmetry in cultures around the world, and create a piece of art. Meet a scientist who uses symmetry, then see artistic patterns unfold in the planetarium! The entire NOVA badge can be completed in this session.
Cub Scout Session Check-in begins at 9:00 AM and session runs until 1:00 PM if you meet with your NOVA Counselor. Cub Scouts and their families are invited to stay with their paid event admission to participate in the Scientist Spotlight Program at the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History.
Scouts BSA/Venturing/Sea Scout STEM NOVA - Up and Away!
Explore the world of fluid dynamics and see how it affects your everyday life. Engineer a parachute delivery system and test the terminal velocity of
different objects. Meet a scientist who studies fluid dynamics, and watch a planetarium show about fluid dynamics on Earth!
In advance of this badge, Scouts will need to
– Watch and/or read two hours on topics related to fluid dynamics
– Complete one of the following merit badges: Archery, Aviation, Canoeing, Chemistry, Kayaking, Oceanography, Plumbing, Rifle Shooting, Rowing, Scuba Diving, Shotgun Shooting, Space Exploration, Swimming
Scouts BSA/Venturing/Seas Scout Session Check-in begins at 1:00 PM and session runs until 5:00 PM if the scout checks in with the Nova Counselor.. Scouts and their families are invited to come early with their paid event admission to visit the museum and participate in the Scientist Spotlight Program at the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History.
Cost: Scout Cost is $25. This includes a ticket to the planetarium, museum browse time, all the lessons/activities and a STEMblem (patch).
Parent/Chaperone Cost is $20. This includes a ticket to the planetarium, museum browse time and attending lessons/activities with your scout(s).
Staff Cost Nova Counselors volunteering at the event is free. Please contact Maria Peralta if you are a Nova Counselor and are interested in helping us staff the event.
Scientist Spotlight - From 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Scouts are encouraged to attends the museum's Scientist Spotlight - a grand collection of professional scientists from all disciplines, each hosting age-appropriate activities and games scattered throughout the museum. Visit with the University of Michigan scientists and participate in engaging, hands-on activities to learn about their cutting-edge research
Morning Session, Cub Scout Only, 75 Scout limit, max 50 adults
Afternoon Session, Scouts BSA, Venturer, Sea Scout - 50 Scout Limit, max 10 adults





