Haunted Science Laboratory Opens to the Public on Oct. 28 from 4 to 9 p.m.

Idaho State University Department of Physics and Kiwanis Club of Pocatello’s Haunted Science Laboratory will be open to the public on Saturday, October 28, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Bannock County Event Center, Commercial Building B, just north of the Pocatello Downs Grandstand. The Haunted Science Lab features a Van DeGraaf generator, lasers, and multiple educational and interactive science activities designed to delight, fright, and educate kids of all ages. Some exhibits use the same principles as Disneyland’s Haunted Science Mansion, except they are explained. 

"The Haunted Science Lab is a great opportunity for families to engage in spooky science fun, and we hope it encourages their interest and enthusiasm for science,” said Steve Shropshire, professor of physics. “Attendees will learn about electricity, magnetism, light, optics, perception, forces,fluids, and more.”

The cost to attend is $3 per person or $7 per family (limit 6), and cash only. All proceeds from the event go toward Kiwanis-supported charities that benefit children in Southeast Idaho.

For over a decade, Idaho State’s Department of Physics and the Kiwanis Club of Pocatello have hosted the Haunted Science Laboratory as a free field trip for local schools. In 2022, over 1,500 local students from around the region visited the Haunted Science Laboratory on a field trip. When it opened to the public, more than 300 visitors, some traveling from as far away as Twin Falls and Idaho Falls, stopped by the lab.

This year’s event is made possible through support from the Laura Moore Cunningham Foundation, Kiwanis Club of Pocatello, Bannock County,  Idaho STEM Ecosystem, and the help of community volunteers. 

If you have questions about the event, contact Jasmyne Jensen, ISU Department of Physics Administrative Assistant, at (208) 282-2350 or coseoutreach@isu.edu. 

More on ISU’s Department of Physics can be found at isu.edu/physics.