1. The Science Center is located across from the Life Science Galleries, and next to the IMAX Theater.

Science Exploring

In the basement of the Science Center is the Exploring Science exhibit area, which focuses on visual, audio and color perceptions. This area is divided into four main topics: sensory illusions, order and chaos, holograms and modern physics. In April of 2004, the museum purchased 14 new exhibits for this area from The Exploratorium in San Francisco, California, including Air Reed, Blow Out Your Toaster, Downhill Race, Fluvial Storm, Hot Light, Hyperbolic Slot, Oscylinder Scope, Rift Zone, Rope Squirter, Settling Column, Three Kinds of Light, Turntable, Water Sphere Lens and 3-D Shadows. These exhibits were designed to enhance interest in science and to allow visitors to question and explore science firsthand.

Integrated Circuits

The Integrated Circuits exhibit area on the 2nd floor details the development of electronics, the principles of electrical conduction and the materials used to create integrated circuits, as well as the design and applications of integrated circuits. Through the display topics, visitors will gain a better understanding of integrated circuit technology and its influence on our daily lives.

Astronomy and Weather

Visitors to the Astronomy and Weather exhibit areas on the 3rd floor are greeted by a model of the solar system and a large photograph of Earth taken from space. These and other exhibits introduce the basic concepts and theories of earth science, weather, space science, astronomy and related fields. The exhibits include a look at the Earth's position in the universe, its composition and atmosphere, followed by the sun and planets, the Milky Way and the entire universe. Improvements in astronomical telescopes through time are explained in detail. Also introduced are the history of space exploration and man's changing views of the universe. Visitors are invited to view and operate simulated telescopes of differing frequency ranges. The differences in the frequency ranges produce different results and opportunities for application in observing the universe. In addition, at the automated meteorological observatory station, visitors can view the weather satellite receiving system and obtain information about the atmospheric conditions inside and outside the observatory.

The Fantastic World of Matter

The themes of the 4th floor "The Fantastic World of Matter" are related to the fields of physics and chemistry. Hands-on, interactive exhibitions are designed to demonstrate the amazing phenomena of physics and chemistry. Topics include Mechanics, Sound, Electromagnetism, Optics, Thermochemistry and Modern Physics. The goal of this hall is to trigger motivated scientific learning in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

A classroom devoted to science demonstrations provides further opportunities for visitors to interact with science.

Children's Discovery Room

Blending science education exhibits and activities, the Children's Discovery Room is a learning space for preschool children and students in the lower grades of elementary school. With its lively and eye-catching design, it is a place for parents to spend quality time together and for young children to explore. During the school year, activities complement the educational curricula of preschools, and educational services are provided to groups with advance reservation. The Children's Discovery Room is filled with games and science education teaching aids, with the focus on children's daily life experiences. Using the room's materials children will be able to grasp concrete and abstract ideas, and are encouraged to develop observation skills and independent thinking.

The Children's Discovery Room is for ages 3 to 8. Children must be accompanied by a parent.