Hands-on experiments in earth science

With a focus on physical sciences, this gallery showcases the forces that drive our experiences on the planet, from weather and climate to electricity to air and water pressures. Blue Telescope exhibits include:
Periodic Table: This exhibit helps guests mix up common molecules like salt, carbon dioxide, and rust. A virtual beaker showcases fun animations for gas, liquid and solid state molecules, and explains facts about each element. Guests select and mix their elements on a large touchscreen display. Upon successfully creating a molecule, engaging animations play in conjunction with dynamic LED lighting embedded in an oversized periodic table represented in the physical environment.
Climate Climb: This Arctic-themed interactive allows guests to see the impacts of climate change over time by inputting their own birthday and seeing historical temperature data in the Flint region for that calendar date. The application dynamically recalls the inputted data, providing a visualization of previous guest engagement. Guests are encouraged to do their part to mitigate energy usage in a variety of ways.
Weather Station: Using a mix of virtual sliders, guests can “remix” the weather to create all sorts of effects from blizzards to thunderstorms, and learn about the different environmental factors such as humidity, air pressure, and stability that shape the atmosphere we live in. Dynamic animations and audio supplement the immersive experience promoting engagement and learning.