Houston…we have lift-off!
A new state-of-the-art science centre is to be built in Abu Dhabi, and will provide budding astronauts and mini-Indiana Joneses with a new stomping ground to explore.
Aimed at teaching visitors about science, the new facility is being launched by the Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee (TDC) and aims to inspire and excite children. Featuring erupting geysers, a giant suspended slinky, and two-storey rolling ball sculpture – the space is sure to delight all.
With the design phase already completed, construction on the Abu Dhabi Science Center (ADSC) will begin later this year.
The permanent facility, to be located in Masdar City, will house seven galleries and include more than 200 interactive hands-on exhibits. Dedicated gallery spaces will explore a variety of topics including: Sensing Your World, Science in Motion, Universe and Planetarium, Natural Resources, the Making Gallery and Land, Sea and Sky.
In addition, the centre will feature a 12-metre domed 75-seat planetarium and space exploration simulator, to treat guests to an out-of-this world experience.
With 120 educational programmes designed for children aged six to 11 years, a menu of offerings will also be provided for mini-science enthusiasts to take part in, including hands-on laboratory experiments, gallery walks and science day camp.
“ADSC is the third major science popularisation initiative from TDC that aims to stimulate scientific curiosity within our youth and inspire them through exciting and interactive learning experiences,” said Ahmed Saeed Al Calily, director-general of TDC. “The Abu Dhabi Science Center will create scientific memories for our children and will engage our community in science in an exciting and fun manner. Annually, over 200,000 visitors will be able to enjoy this facility, of which 30 per cent is anticipated to be through organised school tours.”
The facility is expected to open in the second half of 2016.
