The Pacific Science Center’s Science On Wheels program will roll into Freeland on Thursday with two free programs for kids.

At 1 p.m., the Freeland Library will host “Sand-Tastic.”

Sand-Tastic is part of the center’s Rock and Roll Science exhibit, which travels throughout Washington state to engage the public with a program devoted to scientific education and exploration. Sand-Tastic explores sand from around the world, and kids ages 4 to 8 can use the tools of geologists to closely examine the samples.

At 2:30 p.m. at the Freeland Library, the Pacific Science Center’s Engineering Van will stop by with the popular “Robot Challenge” program.

How do scientists use modern robots to investigate other planets and dangerous places on earth? Kids 8 and older can analyze the features of these robots then program one to maneuver through a simulated hostile environment.

Participants are invited to compete in teams against other programmers to be the robot champion.

The Science On Wheels program has served schools, fairs and community events across Washington and Idaho for more than 30 years, beginning during the gas crisis of 1973, when schools were unable to afford field trips to Pacific Science Center.

Available vans are loaded with various exhibits and learning tools in eight different areas of science: agriculture, engineering, astronomy, physiology, neurobiology, math, physics and geology. The program tailors programs to excite kids and pique their interest in the fascinating world of science.

The Pacific Science Center is an independent, not-for-profit educational institution, and Science on Wheels is made possible with generous support from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction and other donating foundations in the Northwest.