After weeks of incredible creativity, community participation, and enthusiastic voting, we’re thrilled to introduce the newest member of the Schroeder Family Exploreum family…
Meet Helix!
From the moment we launched our mascot naming contest, our community embraced the opportunity to help shape a piece of Exploreum history. We received an incredible 64 creative name submissions from curious minds of all ages. Our naming committee, made up of six dedicated Exploreum volunteers, had the difficult task of reviewing every entry. The creativity and imagination on display made that no easy job!
After much discussion, the committee narrowed the field to three outstanding finalists. In alphabetical order, they were:
- Helix — submitted by Sam Myers
- Nano — submitted by Christina Cooper
- Nova — submitted by Alaina Clayton
Once the finalists were selected, the community once again stepped in, casting votes online to determine the winning name. The excitement and support throughout the contest reminded us just how passionate our community is about inspiring curiosity and celebrating science.
With over 55% of the votes, the winning name, Helix, perfectly captures the spirit of exploration, discovery, and innovation that defines the Exploreum. Inspired by the DNA double helix—one of the most recognizable symbols of science—Helix represents curiosity, lifelong learning, and the endless possibilities that begin with asking, “What if?”
As the Exploreum’s official robot mascot, Helix will become a familiar face throughout our exhibits, educational programs, community events, and special celebrations. Whether we’re exploring the mysteries of the ocean, reaching for the stars, uncovering the world of dinosaurs, building incredible inventions, or conducting hands-on experiments, Helix will be there to encourage visitors to explore, imagine, and discover.
We’re also excited to recognize and congratulate Sam Myers, whose winning submission will forever be part of the Exploreum’s story. Thank you for helping us give our robot ambassador a name worthy of its mission!
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who participated in the contest. Every submission, every vote, and every shared post helped make this a fun and memorable experience for our community. Your enthusiasm reminds us that the Exploreum belongs to all of us, and together we’re building a place where curiosity comes to life.
You’ll be seeing a lot more of Helix in the months and years ahead. Keep an eye out as our new robotic friend makes appearances throughout the Exploreum, helps inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, artists, inventors, and explorers, and maybe, just maybe, joins us in the science center someday.
Welcome to the team, Helix!
The adventure is just beginning.