Special Program at The Field Museum to Celebrate New Robert A. Pritzker Center for Meteorites and Polar Studies

For Immediate Release
Contact: Field Museum PR Department
(312) 665-7100, media@fieldmuseum.org

CHICAGO - March 4, 2009 - Join an international team of scientists who will discuss the recent discoveries of a scientific expedition to Antarctica focused on identifying new extremeophiles — organisms that survive and thrive in extreme climates. This presentation will feature evidence of newly discovered forms of extremeophiles and bacteria mats and never-before-seen vivid underwater film footage. Don't miss this opportunity to see and hear about these new life forms for the first time! To learn more about the expedition participants, visit http://expedition.tawanifoundation.org/index.php/team/

The presentation will be held in the Museum's James Simpson Theatre and is free with basic Museum admission. The following is a detailed schedule of the April 18 program:

1-2:30 p.m. — Welcoming remarks, a brief film, and a panel discussion with scientists
2:30-2:40 p.m. — Question and answer session
2:40-3:15 p.m. — National Science Foundation medals awarded to expedition recipients and ribbon cutting for Robert A Pritzker Center.

For more information, the public may call 312.665.7400 or visit fieldmuseum.org.