California Academy of Sciences

In 1853, the California Academy of Sciences was established as the first scientific academy west of the Atlantic seaboard. Since its founding, the organization has undergone various iterations; twice, earthquakes have forced the San Francisco museum to rebuild and reshape its vision. Today, the Academy is composed of three primary institutions: the Steinhart Aquarium, the Morrison Planetarium, and the Kimball Natural History Museum. These institutions, combined with world-class education and research programs, offer audiences of all ages exposure to the natural world and all of its wonders. Central to the Academy's work is to lower barriers by encouraging audiences to learn and participate regardless of cost, language, or background knowledge. Each year, over 1.5 million visitors participate in these engaging programs and leave the Academy inspired to appreciate and preserve our natural world.