Geology

To see all current Geology courses, click here. [1]

Diamonds to Diamonds: Smithsonian's Geology, Gems, and Minerals Hall
The Earth and Solar System Rocky Treasures exhibit begins with the famous Hope Diamond and ends with the diamond dust of a now-dead star. Between are world-class specimens and interactive displays that invite the visitor to linger and learn about the planet and solar system's properties and origins. This illustrated lecture presents an insider's view of some of these specimens and their stories. Dr. Melson was one of the many involved in the preparation of this exhibit. His special interest is the science the samples reveal about Earth, Moon, and Solar System.  Enjoy the day with Dr. Melson with a morning lecture, break for lunch on your own in the Valley Mall Food Court and closing afternoon lecture.

Geoarchaelogy
"Geology is helpful in many ways to the solution of archaeological and anthropological problems." This lecture series examines the geology of sites in Kenya, Israel and Costa Rica examined by Melson, Senior Scientist Emeritus at the Smithsonian in collaboration with archeologists and anthropologists. The presentations will also deal with the impact of local geology on Native American cultures. Melson is a potter (member of Shenandoah Potters Guild) and will demonstrate how useful pottery making is the interpretation of the clays and techniques of early potters.
Presentation 1. General geology, rocks and lithic artifacts
Presentation 2. Application of ceramic studies to the interpretation of pottery and other ceramic materials
Presentation 3. Impact of geologic processes, such as volcanism, on early cultures.
Fee: $71 Senior Adult Fee: $46

Geology Rocks! Smithsonian Museum of Natural History Highlights Tour
Join William G. Melson, Smithsonian Museum of Natural History Geologist Emeritus, and friends for this interesting highlights tour featuring geology and related exhibit halls.  This interesting tour will include a rotating small-group-guided experience through the featured exhibits and free time to explore all of the additional natural wonders and interesting new exhibits such as "Eternal Life in Ancient Egypt" in this fascinating Museum.

Shake and Bake: The Science and Hazards of Earthquakes and Volcanic Eruptions
Join Smithsonian Museum of Natural History Geologist Emeritus Dr. William Melson in this interesting new class examining the impact and origin of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions on global and local scales.  Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in the US (including Hawaii and Alaska) are diverse in their energies and processes.  The presentation on explosive eruptions includes Mount St. Helens and Arenal Volcano (Costa Rica) examined in detail in the field by Melson.  The lectures provide a deepened awareness of what's behind these dramatic processes.  They also examine the role of seismology and volcanology in the geologic history or the Middle Atlantic States and how well earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can be predicted. 

For more information or to register, call 240-500-2236.