About the Academy
The California Academy of Sciences is a multifaceted scientific institution committed to leading-edge research, to educational outreach, and to finding new and innovative ways to engage and inspire the public.
The Academy's mission - to explore, explain and protect the natural world - extends to all corners of the institution; from a research expedition in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, to a teacher training program in a California classroom, to an interactive game on the museum exhibit floor.
A Stunning and Sustainable Structure
 | It’s as if the new Academy brings the whole universe under one roof - an aquarium, a planetarium, a natural history museum and more! The 412,000 square foot structure is not only physically impressive, but it just may be the greenest museum on the planet, with a 2 ½ acre Living Roof, an expansive solar canopy, an extensive water reclamation system, and walls insulated with recycled blue jeans. |
See What Comes to Life
 | The deepest coral reef exhibit in the world, a 4-story tropical rainforest, a towering T-Rex skeleton, a colony of African penguins, a fully-immersive digital screen by which to fly to the farthest reaches of the Universe: These are just a handful of the many exciting venues, exhibits and animals found within the new Academy. |
Founded on Groundbreaking Research
 | "How has life evolved, and how can it be sustained?" It’s the quest to answer these two questions that is the driving force behind Academy research. The Academy supports 46 world-class scientists and hundreds of researchers in 11 fields of study. It's their collective effort that is pushing the scientific envelope and that forms the foundation upon which the public-facing Academy sits. |
A Passion for Teaching
 | Each year, the Academy's accredited teachers, highly-trained docents and scientists share their knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural sciences with tens of thousands of children, teens, and life-long learners. The Academy runs workshops for teachers, creates classroom materials, and hosts school field trips. It also fosters learning for the general public by providing a wide range of museum tours, daily programs, events, and lectures. |
A Storied Past |
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The Academy is the oldest institution of its kind in the West. Take a quick stroll through the Academy’s 155-year history.
A Point of View |
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In service of its mission, the Academy has issued two official statements clarifying its positions on evolution and on sustainability.
Nuts & Bolts |
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Find out more about who and what holds this non-profit institution together. Review Academy operating principles, meet the Board of Directors, download its most recent financial statements.
Memberships |
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Join Today! Academy members enjoy a full year of unlimited admission, reserved Planetarium passes, access to special events, Academy discounts, and more!
