My recent visit to the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park was an educational adventure that left me with some mixed but overall positive impressions. The highlight of the visit was attending the "Sky Tonight" show, which is a monthly planetarium presentation hosted by the Fleet's resident astronomer.

The "Sky Tonight" show was fascinating, as it allowed us to explore the solar system and connect with fellow skywatchers. The newly reopened IMAX dome provided an immersive experience, and the visuals were both informative and captivating. However, I couldn't help but wish that the seats were reclining, as craning your neck to look up at the top of the dome for extended periods can be a bit uncomfortable.

The Fleet Science Center itself offers a variety of cool areas and interactive exhibits, making it an excellent place to bring younger kids for an educational and fun day out. The center's commitment to engaging visitors through science and creative visuals is evident throughout.

One notable feature is the workshop area, where you can create sculptures out of used e-waste. The friendly and helpful staff are readily available to assist with any questions, making it easy to dive into the workshop activities.

For kids, this place is a treasure trove of hands-on science activities, and it's well-suited for those aged 12 and under. The interactive exhibits, especially those focusing on waves, electricity, light, and sound, were a hit with my family. The static charge experiment (the shocker) was a particular favorite, offering a memorable and educational experience.

The gift shop at the Fleet Science Center is a science enthusiast's paradise, offering a variety of amazing science toys and gadgets at reasonable prices. It's a great place to pick up educational gifts or souvenirs.

In summary, the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is a fantastic destination for families, especially those with younger children. The "Sky Tonight" show and the interactive science stations offer a blend of education and entertainment, and the gift shop is a great place to find unique science-related items. I'd recommend spending a half-day exploring the center and, if possible, taking advantage of their free day each month. It's a place where learning about the world around us is both fun and engaging.