Calendar

Ancient Islamic patterns with quasi-crystalline properties have triggered significant discussion and a number of debates on the scientific relevance of Islamic geometry. Astonishingly, eight centuries before their discovery in modern science, ancient artists created patterns with quasi-crystalline geometry. The discovery of “forbidden symmetries” in the 1980s shook the bedrock of theoretical solid-state science, prompting a foundational shift in the understanding of crystallography. Three decades after their initial discovery hundreds of quasi-crystalline formations have been uncovered; however, a full understanding of their generating principles and long-range structural order is still posing many challenges. Dr. Ajlouni will introduce the simple relational method that was used to construct these ancient formations using a compass and a straightedge.

Las Cruces communities will have opportunities to provide public input on a proposed Short Range Plan and Master Plan Study for the Las Cruces Museum System. The Las Cruces Museums engaged the team from AOS Architects of Santa Fe, along with WOLF Consulting of Las Vegas, NV, and Creative Strategies360 of Santa Fe, to facilitate the creation of a Short Range Plan and a Museum Master Plan Study for the Museum System. Community input is vital to the development and implementation of Museum goals, priorities, and strategies. The Short Range Plan, Renewing Our Purpose, provides a guide to Museum activities and services through the fiscal year 2026, while the Master Plan Study provides an analysis of the facilities and explores possibilities for the future development of the physical environment and possible programming within the Museums’ environments. The public is welcome to attend any of the Zoom sessions or provide comments or concerns by email to museum.exhibitions@las-cruces.org.

Teen-organized science for…teens! Team up with STEM experts for monthly discussions, tours, and activities with our guest scientists. Recommended for ages 11-17. Programs begin at 6pm. Contact Stephanie at shawkins@las-cruces.org for links to the Zoom webinar.

It’s brunch time! Watch and learn how different species of animals eat, and what they eat, with a virtual video on Facebook and Instagram.

Understanding the geological and hydrogeological systems is crucial when dealing with water resources management. Hear about a case study from a contaminated water way in Tennessee and find out what environmental scientists are doing to determine the best way to track and manage contamination in waterways. Ruba Mohamed, Ph.D., is a staff research scientist in the Plant and Environmental Sciences Department at New Mexico State University. Dr. Mohamed’s research focuses on pollution control, geochemistry, and environmental sustainability.