What is The Big Give?

Hosted by The Nonprofit Council, The Big Give is an annual fundraising event that connects South Central Texas nonprofits - like the Science Mill! - with new and existing donors.

The purpose of fundraising events like The Big Give is to help boost the efforts of all the nonprofits that make South Central Texas a great place to work, live, and play in. As always, the success of this online giving is fueled by awesome donors like YOU! After all, community takes care of each other.

Whatever your advocacy is, we encourage you to seek a nonprofit that puts action into words.

Why support the Science Mill?

If you are passionate about making education, especially STEM education, more accessible to kids from underrepresented communities, then you’ve found the right nonprofit. At the Science Mill, we believe that all kids, regardless of background, should have equitable access to high-quality STEM programs and feel empowered to pursue a future career in STEM.

In Texas and our country, the complex challenges of tomorrow will require STEM professionals, entrepreneurs and problem solvers. Yet research shows low-income students, students of color, rural students and girls are underrepresented in STEM programs and in STEM careers as adults. This includes more than 60% of all Texas students who live in economically disadvantaged communities, with little or no access to STEM programs. The Science Mill brings hands-on, science- and technology-focused programs to Texas communities with the greatest need, providing transformative experiences for students and local teachers.

We need the next generation of scientists, engineers, doctors and technicians. While not every kid will choose a career in STEM, we want every kid to have the access and encouragement to know that they could. Building on our success as a destination attraction and STEM learning leader in central and south Texas, our goal is to bring our proven network of year-round STEM programs to more kids in more places across the state.

OUR IMPACT

In 2023 alone, over 4,500 students all over Texas were served by Science Mill programs like SCI Camps, Labs on the Go, and STEM Discovery Clubs.

Since 2016, over 13,000 students have been served by these programs, and thanks to your ongoing support, we continuously expand our scope every year. This means that we get to reach more kids, in more places, and more ways.

For in depth information on our impact, click here.

How to support the Science Mill during The Big Give

You can donate to the Science Mill today, or wait for September 20, 6pm to have your donations matched!

How things fly

The ability to soar through the skies has captivated human imagination for centuries. From the first flaps of wings to the sophisticated aircraft of today, flight remains one of the most awe-inspiring achievements of science and engineering. At the heart of this accomplishment lies the intricate dance of physics that governs the principles of flight. In this exploration, we'll unravel the fundamental concepts that allow birds, airplanes, and spacecraft to conquer the skies.

Lift and Bernoulli's Principle

The cornerstone of flight lies in the generation of lift. Lift is the force that counters the weight of an aircraft, allowing it to rise against gravity. One of the key principles at play here is Bernoulli's Principle, which states that as the speed of a fluid (such as air) increases, its pressure decreases. In the context of flight, this phenomenon occurs as air moves faster over the curved upper surface of a wing, creating a lower pressure area compared to the flat lower surface. This pressure difference generates an upward force, lifting the aircraft.

Shape Matters: Wing Design

The shape of an aircraft's wings plays a crucial role in its ability to generate lift efficiently. Wings are designed with a curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface, creating the necessary pressure difference. This is why airplane wings are often referred to as airfoils. The angle at which the wing meets the oncoming air, known as the angle of attack, also affects lift. Too steep an angle can lead to turbulence and loss of lift, a phenomenon known as a stall.

Thrust and Drag

While lift opposes weight, another pair of forces comes into play: thrust and drag. Thrust is the force generated by engines that propels an aircraft forward, overcoming drag, the resistance encountered as the aircraft moves through the air. In achieving a balance between thrust and drag, airplanes can maintain a steady speed and altitude.

Newton's Third Law and Propulsion

Newton's third law, often summarized as "for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction," is the driving force behind propulsion systems. Jet engines, for instance, work by expelling a high-speed stream of gases in one direction, propelling the aircraft in the opposite direction. This principle applies equally to rocket engines, which operate in the vacuum of space, demonstrating that the laws of physics are universal and versatile.

The Challenges of Spaceflight

While the principles of flight on Earth are well-understood, spaceflight introduces an entirely new set of challenges. In the vacuum of space, there is no air to generate lift or drag. Instead, spacecraft rely on the principle of conservation of momentum, expelling mass at high speeds to achieve acceleration in the opposite direction. This is elegantly demonstrated by the reaction control thrusters and main engines of spacecraft.

Physics of Flight Career Corner

The allure of the skies has captivated human imagination for centuries, and the modern marvel of airplanes has made this dream a reality. From designing and engineering these complex machines to ensuring their safe operation and navigation, the world of aviation offers a plethora of exhilarating career opportunities.

Here are just some of the careers that will take you to the skies!

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace engineers are the masterminds behind the creation of airplanes. They design, develop, and test aircraft to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. These professionals work on a range of aspects, from aerodynamics and propulsion systems to materials science and structural integrity. Their work contributes to the cutting-edge innovations that shape the aviation industry, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in flight.

Pilot

Pilots are the visible face of aviation, responsible for safely flying airplanes and ensuring the smooth operation of flights. Becoming a pilot requires extensive training, including flight school and simulator experience. A pilot conducts pre-flight inspections of the aircraft, reviewing flight plans and weather conditions, and making decisions regarding the route and altitude during the flight. They monitor fuel levels and engine performance, and maintain communication with air traffic control.

Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft mechanics, also known as aircraft maintenance technicians, are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining airplanes. Their meticulous work ensures that aircraft are safe, reliable, and meet regulatory standards. From routine maintenance checks to complex repairs, aircraft mechanics play a vital role in keeping planes in peak condition.

AIRCRAFT DESIGNER

Aircraft designers are responsible for conceptualizing, creating, and developing the designs of various types of aircraft, ranging from commercial airplanes and military jets to helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). They ensure that the aircraft designs meet all necessary safety and quality standards through rigorous conceptualizing and testing. Their work is critical to the aviation industry as it lays the foundation for the construction of safe, efficient, and high-performing aircraft.

Aerospace Research Scientist

Aerospace research scientists delve into the realms of science and technology to develop new innovations for the aviation industry. Whether it's designing more fuel-efficient engines, developing advanced navigation systems, or exploring cutting-edge materials, these professionals are at the forefront of driving progress in aviation technology.

Interested in learning more? Join us for Physics of Flight this Labor Day weekend to experience fun hands-on activities inspired by the principles of aviation!

What is hugelkultur?

In the realm of sustainable gardening practices, hugelkultur stands as a shining example of nature-inspired innovation. This ancient method, originating in Eastern Europe, has gained renewed interest among eco-conscious gardeners and homesteaders around the world. Hugelkultur, which translates to "hill culture" or "mound culture," involves creating raised garden beds using a combination of organic materials, fostering a self-sustaining and nutrient-rich environment for plants to thrive. Let's delve into the fascinating world of hugelkultur gardening and uncover its numerous benefits.

Building the Foundation: How Hugelkultur Works

At its core, hugelkultur revolves around the concept of utilizing decaying wood and organic matter to create a nutrient-dense growing medium. Gardeners begin by layering logs, branches, and woody debris at the bottom of a raised bed. These materials not only form a solid foundation but also act as a sponge, soaking up moisture and gradually releasing it to the plants above. This natural water retention system reduces the need for frequent watering, making hugelkultur an ideal choice for arid climates or water-conscious gardeners.

Above the woody base, layers of leaves, grass clippings, straw, compost, and soil are added, creating a gradual transition from coarse to fine organic matter. As these materials break down over time, they release essential nutrients into the soil, providing a steady supply of nourishment to plants. This organic decomposition also generates heat, which can extend the growing season and potentially offer protection against frost.

Source: Vego Garden

The Benefits of Hugelkultur Gardening

1. Water Efficiency: Hugelkultur beds excel in water conservation due to their inherent ability to retain moisture. The woody base acts like a reservoir, slowly releasing water to plant roots as needed. This characteristic reduces water consumption and minimizes the risk of waterlogged soil.

2. Nutrient Richness: As the organic materials decompose, they enrich the soil with essential nutrients, creating a fertile and vibrant environment for plant growth. This natural fertilization process reduces the reliance on synthetic fertilizers.

3. Improved Soil Structure: Hugelkultur promotes healthy soil structure by enhancing aeration, drainage, and microbial activity. The gradual breakdown of organic matter encourages the development of beneficial microorganisms, which contribute to overall soil health.

4. Low Maintenance: Once established, hugelkultur beds require minimal maintenance. The self-sustaining nature of the system means less frequent watering, weeding, and fertilization, allowing gardeners to enjoy the fruits of their labor with reduced effort.

5. Biodiversity: Hugelkultur beds create diverse microenvironments, attracting a variety of insects and beneficial organisms. This biodiversity can contribute to natural pest control and pollination.

6. Longevity: Hugelkultur beds have the potential to remain productive for several years, gradually breaking down and renewing themselves over time. This longevity makes them a practical and sustainable gardening option.

Embracing an Ancient Wisdom

Hugelkultur gardening is a testament to the ingenuity of nature-inspired practices. By mimicking natural processes and harnessing the power of organic decomposition, gardeners can cultivate thriving and resilient ecosystems. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice with a passion for sustainability, hugelkultur offers a unique and rewarding way to connect with the land, promote biodiversity, and nurture a greener future—one mound of soil at a time.

See an example of hugelkultur up close at the Science Mill Food Forest exhibit, opening this Saturday, August 19!