The Fleet Is at Comic-Con!

Because you can’t have “science fiction” without “science”.… This year, the Fleet will be hosting not one, but two separate panels at Comic-Con International: San Diego. 

Have you ever wondered if (or when!) computers will take over the world? Or how science-fiction ideas or inventions become reality? Let’s discuss these topics at Comic-Con! Don't miss our panels:

Artificial Intelligence

July 21, 2017 4:30–5:30 p.m., Room 24ABC

Will computers take over the world? As scientists move closer to achieving artificial intelligence, what’s next? How does real AI science compare to its depictions in movies, on TV and in books? Could AI save the world—or be its doom?

Panelists: Craig Titley – Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Co-Executive Producer/Writer; William Wisher Jr.,  Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgement Day Screenwriter; Dr. Ndapa Nakashole, Assistant Professor, UCSD Artificial Intelligence Group and other science fiction writers and AI researchers!

Science Fiction, Science Future

July 23, 11:15-12:15 p.m., Room 6DE

SpaceX is developing a reusable passenger rocket, and self-driving cars will soon be in everyone’s garage. Science fiction has become science reality. Where are we heading next?

Panelists: Andy Weir, The Martian Author; Mike Johnson, Star Trek Comics Writer and other science fiction writers!

We’ll also be at VR Con, with Two Scientists Walk Into a Con! Bring your burning science questions, and ask anything you like!

Didn’t get into Comic-Con this year? Never fear!

We have events outside of Comic-Con you can attend with no badge required.

Crossover: Where Comics and Science Meet

July 18, 6:30-8 p.m., Fleet Science Center

Join IDW Publishing and the Fleet Science Center to enjoy a local brew and take a look at the art, science and technology featured in some of our favorite comics. Comic book artists, writers and local scientists will give short talks, followed by an open discussion addressing the creative and scientific sides of comics. Cost: $15. Purchase your tickets.

An Evening With Andy Weir

July 24, 7 p.m., Heikoff Giant Dome Theater at the Fleet Science Center

Andy Weir, author of The Martian, and the Fleet Science Center’s CEO, Dr. Steven Snyder, will discuss the importance of science in storytelling and preview Mr. Weir’s new book, Artemis. Mr. Weir will be available to sign books after the event (bring your copy of The Martian, or buy one at the event—book sales courtesy of Mysterious Galaxy). Cost: $35 for general admission and $75 for a VIP ticket (which includes preferred seating, front of the line access for the book signing and a pre-order for a signed copy of Mr. Weir’s new book, Artemis). Purchase your tickets.

Late Night Gaming

The Fleet is staying open extra late on Friday nights through September 1, until 10 p.m., for gaming fun in our new Game Masters exhibition—including gaming on the Giant Dome screen and a no-host bar (open at 6 p.m.) for your adult beverage needs. July 28 is Cosplay Night! Dress up as your favorite character or super hero. We’ll have members of the 501^st Legion to game right beside you! (Hmm … Can you beat a Stormtrooper at Space Invaders?) Regular admission rates apply. Learn more.