S.T.E.M. Class
Optical Science & Art
Discover the secrets of light and optics!
Ready to GLOW? Dive into the world of optical sciences as we make 3D glasses, glowing art, pinhole cameras, and even attempt to hide from an IR camera. Discover the fascinating optical properties of everyday items and learn how engineers are using light to create epic technologies.
Description
See the World in a New Light with Optical Science & Art!
Did you know that the physics of light has led to some of the most mind-blowing technologies, like telescopes, cameras, and virtual reality? And the best part? The world of optics is growing faster than a high-speed laser beam! In this class, we’ll explore the amazing science and engineering behind light, unlocking the secrets of reflection, refraction, diffraction, birefringence, and more.
And that’s not all—we’ll be building some epic stuff! Nerds will:
🔬 Use microscopes to uncover hidden details and see the world in a whole new way.
🌈 Bend and bounce light with prisms and a light box to discover how light behaves.
👓 Make 3D glasses that make images pop right off the page.
💡 Discover how a small aperture flips an image upside down and explore the science behind pinhole optics.
🎨 Create fluorescent glowing paintings and sculptures inspired by bioluminescent and biofluorescent creatures.
🌀 Design optical illusion art that tricks the eye and challenges perception.
💦 Build a “laser waterfall” that makes light flow like water.
🔥 Attempt to hide from an infrared (IR) camera (spoiler alert: it won’t work, but it will be super cool!).
📸 Make stunning cyanotype images using sunlight and chemistry.
🕶️ Try out VR headsets and discover how light, lenses, and perception work together to create immersive virtual worlds!
🌽 Uncover the mind-blowing optical properties of something as simple as corn syrup!
From glowing artwork to upside-down worlds, this class blends hands-on science with mind-bending art in the most electrifying way possible. Get ready to experiment, create, and light up your imagination!
Good fit for...
This class is perfect for curious and inquisitive kids who have a natural love for science and art. It’s for those nerds who have ever pondered the mysteries of rainbows and wondered how polarized sunglasses work. It’s for the young minds who are fascinated by the captivating beauty of colorful images and always wonder about the physics behind the colors or luminescence. This class is designed for kids who love exploring and discovering new things, and who want to learn about the world of optical sciences in a fun, interactive, and engaging way.
Nerds make...
In this class, you’ll play with lasers and virtual reality, create rainbows, block and redirect beams of light, paint art that glows and even change the color of stuff without touching it! You’ll make your own 3D glasses, pinhole cameras, and perspective photography tricks!
Nerds learn...
Throughout the class, you’ll learn all about the different types of light, like invisible light (like IR and UV), and how engineers were able to detect it. You’ll touch on topics like electro-magnetic waves, polarization, diffraction, bioluminescence, and learn how the James Webb telescope can travel through time!
Class Structure
What to Bring to Class
SUMMER & BREAK CLASSES ONLY: Class is 3hrs each day, so bring a snack for break time. Also, bring your own refillable water bottle. Don’t have one? Add our Nerding water bottle to your order and pick up on first day of class!
Gallery
Your nerd will build and discover like these nerds have.
Reviews
Register
Locations, dates, and times vary by time of year.
After-School
View our After School page to see if this class is offered. Not all classes are offered after school.
Summer Camp
Summer 2025 Registration will open Friday 10am, March 14, 2025.