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Discovery Day

February Discovery Day

Saturday, February 15, 2025 | 10 AM

African American Scientists & Inventors Day

Celebrate the incredible contributions of African American inventors and scientists who have shaped our world through their groundbreaking innovations and discoveries.

Join us for only $12 admission* to Nauticus on Saturday, February 15th from 10AM – 5PM.

This engaging day at Nauticus will showcase hands-on activities, inspiring stories, and fun experiments that highlight these remarkable individuals’ lasting impact on science and technology.

Check out these featured activities from 10AM – 4PM:

  • From Safety Hood to Gas  Mask (Located on the 3rd Floor) – This program will highlight the inventor Garret Morgan on his invention of the “Safety Hood” which was patented in 1914. Guests will be given a brief history about Garret Morgan, his inventions, and the founding of his “National Safety Device Company”. Guests will have the option to participate in trying to put a gas mask on. The activity will be a timed event to see you can put one on the quickest as per the military regulations. Sanitation of the products will be conducted after each use.
  • STEM Fun (Located on the 3rd Floor) – Norfolk Public Library will bring fun, hands-on programs!
  • Super Soaker Soccer (Located on the 3rd Floor) – This activity will highlight inventor Lonnie Johnson and his invention of the Super Soaker; all the rage in the 1980s and 1990s. Visitors will have the opportunity to test their skill and aim while battling their opponent in a game Super Soaker Soccer.
  • Make a Lightbulb (Located on the 3rd Floor) – This program will highlight inventor Lewis Latimer and the significant improvement he made for the incandescent light bulb. Visitors will receive a brief history of the light bulb and learn how and why Latimer’s filament lasted longer than Edison’s. Visitors will have the opportunity to make their own working lightbulb out of a mason jar.
  • Golf Tee 3D (Located on the 3rd Floor) – This display will highlight inventor George Franklin Grant and his invention of the golf tee. Visitors can see Nauticus’ 3D printer in action and even take away their own custom printed golf tee.
  • Poster Display – Explore the groundbreaking achievements of famous inventors and African American scientists who have shaped our world. These posters highlight their contributions across various fields, from engineering and medicine to space exploration and technology. 

Events from 11AM-12:30PM or 2PM-3:30PM:

Want to explore more? Add on our George Washington Carver’s Sweet Potato Biscuit Workshop to your experience! Learn more and register here!

As always, Nauticus members visit for FREE! To become a member, click here.

*No other discounts apply.