Tucson Standard

Curiosity is the driving force behind science, and a new exhibit at the University of Arizona Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium immerses visitors in the wonder of scientific discovery. "Universe of Science" is an interactive exhibit that explores everything from microscopic worlds to monsoon storms to the farthest reaches of deep space. The exhibit aims to inspire future scientists by showcasing both the excitement of discovery and ongoing research at the university.

"'Universe of Science' is our newest and most dynamic exhibit, and we are excited to share it with our community," said Kellee Campbell, executive director of Flandrau. She expressed gratitude for the philanthropic support that made the exhibit possible, acknowledging contributors such as Michael and Beth Kasser, Armstrong McDonald Foundation, Ruth McCormick Tankersley Charitable Trust, Thomas R. Brown Family Foundations, and the Joseph Stanley Leeds Foundation.

Bill Plant, exhibits director at Flandrau, explained that the goal is to make science exciting and accessible for everyone. "Science is a human endeavor, and we're all born curious," Plant said. The exhibit aims to show what being a scientist looks like and its impact on society.

The exhibit was developed in collaboration between Flandrau staff and University of Arizona researchers. It covers five broad fields: Earth sciences; life and molecular sciences; mathematical and computational science; neurocognitive and behavioral science; and physics and space science.

Michael Luria, assistant dean for community and corporate engagement at the College of Science, emphasized that this initiative fulfills their land-grant mission by bringing science into the community. He noted its broader appeal for Tucson residents.

The "Universe of Science" includes various interactive stations like the Inner Scientist Mirror and Scientific Images Guessing Game. Visitors can engage with real-world research through video accounts from university scientists or explore elements using an interactive touch-screen kiosk called Periodic Table Explorer.

One highlight is the James Webb Mirror Wall featuring a full-scale replica of Webb's primary mirror. Marcia Rieke led Webb's primary imager development while George Rieke leads MIRI’s science team—both contributing significantly to space exploration efforts at U of A.

Visitors can experiment with weather patterns or test AI knowledge through challenges designed within these themes—engaging them actively throughout their visit according to Plant who highlighted surprises embedded within experiences provided by exhibits like AI Challenge which tests critical thinking about artificial intelligence roles today along with hidden character discoveries adding fun layers during explorations made available inside center settings offered daily until Sundays each week excluding Mondays outside operational hours listed online alongside pricing details varying based upon age groups served including discounts extended seniors military personnel alike purchasing tickets either ahead via internet platforms present locally front counters site-specific venues accommodating general public interest accordingly ensured remain entertained informed thoroughly participating events hosted therein routinely scheduled basis continuing forward indefinitely foreseeable future endeavors planned further down line later dates anticipated eventually coming soon expectedly predicted soon enough eventually perhaps!