Are your kids really into Pokémon Go? Did you know that most Pokémon are based on real animals — many of which you can find right here in Texas? It’s true. And you can use apps just like Pokémon Go to find them, while helping scientists with their research at the same time. On Thursday, September 8, you and the kids are invited to a special Science Under the Stars event at the Brackenridge Field Laboratory to learn the many ways in which citizen science has helped researchers around the world — and how you can get involved, too!

pokemon_realanimals insects_canadaScience Under the Stars is a free public outreach lecture series in Austin held outdoors at Brackenridge Field Laboratory (2907 Lake Austin Blvd.). Here’s the schedule for this month’s event:

  • 7 p.m.: Food and displays of local animals and plants found at Brackenridge Field Laboratory will be available.
  • 7:15-7:45 p.m.: Guided tour of the field lab (wear sturdy shoes and bring water)
  • 7:30 p.m.: Kid’s activities start! Meet with the children’s division for fun for all ages.
  • 8 p.m.: Settle in for the talk from Anne Chambers.

You can click here to learn more about the Science Under the Stars series. And save the date for upcoming events:

  • October 13 at 8 p.m.: Marie Strader presents Glowing Oceans.
  • November 10 at 7 p.m.: Amanda Perofsky  presents Infectious Disease and Conservation.
  • December 8 at 7 p.m.: Will Shim presents Zombie Parasites

Enjoy!