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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Maryland Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Maryland Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Maryland</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MDAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-maryland-contact-information/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LANHAM-MD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMD" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmd/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Maryland Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Maryland Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Maryland</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MDAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-maryland-contact-information/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LANHAM-MD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMD" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmd/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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<a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Maryland Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Maryland Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" data-tabs="timeline" width="320" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true" lazy="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Maryland</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MDAARP@aarp.org</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/maryland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Maryland</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-maryland-contact-information/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-LANHAM-MD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmd" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AARPMD" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png"></a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aarpmd/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. 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Our Mission
The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.
It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.
History:
Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.
At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.
Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life.
Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET
Zoom and Facebook
Online Event
Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET
Zoom
Online Event
Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET
Zoom
Online Event
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lanham-md/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lanham</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/quick-and-easy-holiday-appetizers-with-chef-christine-vpnf63s4vsm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-COOKING-CLASS-QUICK-AND-EASY-HOLIDAY-APPETIZERS">Cooking Class: Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers</a></h2> <p class="time">Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom and Facebook</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-maine-yoga-with-sea-change-yoga-november-2024-dwn5382699b.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-A-VIRTUAL-CLASS-IN-GENTLE-CHAIR-YOGA">A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/fitness-friday-strength-conditioning-112224-lfnfsg5wz8g.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-FRIDAY-A-STRENGTH-CONDITIONING-WORKOUT-FOR-ALL">Fitness Friday: A Strength & Conditioning Workout for All</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Nov 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lanham-md/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-LANHAM-MD">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium - Lanham, MD"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as" name="description"/> <meta content="Howard, B, Owens, Science, Center, Planetarium, Lanham, MD" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Our Mission The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="38.989498"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-76.839996"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>9601 Greenbelt Road</div> <div> <span>Lanham</span>, <span>MD</span> <span>20706</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="http://www1.pgcps.org/howardbowens/" target="_blank">The Howard B. Owens Science Center Planetarium</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 301-918-8750</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=The+Howard+B.+Owens+Science+Center+Planetarium%2C+9601+Greenbelt+Road%2C+Lanham%2C+MD+20706" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>Our Mission</p> <p>The Howard B. Owens Science Center, (HBOSC), a 27,500 square foot facility owned and operated by the Prince George's County Public Schools, has as its mission to provide excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through student centered programs and services. The Center seeks to provide students in grades Pre-K through 12, with opportunities to participate in unique activity-based instruction. Our staff of teachers practices their craft from teacher developed curriculum materials that approach STEM literacy from the perspective of developmental, exploratory learning. Hands-on, data intensive activities provide students with experiences in physics, chemistry, physiology, biology, space science education, paleontology, meteorology, optics, nutrition, computer science, and astronomy. Teachers on site continuously develop new programs and update current offerings. HBOSC serves as an extension of the classroom, designing, supporting and augmenting classroom activities as they relate to science instruction.</p> <p>It is becoming increasingly important that we develop a citizenry adept at accessing and utilizing the results of technology for professional, community and personal use. Knowing where to find information and how to use the technology that provides access to it will are important skills as we move to a more global society. The development of informed decision makers is critical to individual and national success.</p> <p>History:</p> <p>Howard Beauchamp (pronounced Beech-um) Owens was born November 17, 1909 in Betterton, Maryland, the son of Howard Franklyn Owens and Anna Knotts Beauchamp Owens. His father had a degree from Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and was a prominent businessman in Kent County. His mother had a mathematics degree from Washington College, which was unusual for a woman in those days. She managed the Royal Swan Hotel, a business that attracted tourists and prominent hunters to the area to hunt on the nearby Great Susquehanna Flats. Betterton is a small town on the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore that had popular bathing beaches and was a hub for recreational activities. Large pleasure boats brought tourists there from Baltimore and Philadelphia until some time in the 1960’s.</p> <p>At the age of two, he contracted polio, an acute viral disease of the nervous system that can cause partial paralysis, muscular atrophy, and permanent deformities. He wore braces on his legs until he was nine, and a doctor told his parents not only that he would probably not live past the age of 20, but also that they should place him in a home for crippled children because he would be too much trouble for them. Having none of this, his mother and father massaged his legs daily, and encouraged and taught him in every way possible. Optimistic and persevering by nature, “Beach,” as his family called him, always pushed himself to do what everyone else could do. He thrived, and proved the doctor wrong.</p> <p>Like other children of his day, Beach walked to school, and these twice-daily walks along quiet roads and trails instilled a life-long love of nature. When he was a little older, he would often go duck hunting early in the morning, or check his trap lines before hurrying to get to school on time. He was an excellent student, and showed great interest in learning. He always loved books, and was a voracious reader. The keen curiosity he had, particularly about nature and exploration, followed him throughout his life. </p> <p></p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lanham-md/report/place/the-howard-b-owens-science-center-planetarium-lanham-md.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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