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Get Into Hands On Science At Snibston In Leicestershire
By Felicity Hughes
30/11/2005
Image: shows a fire burnig within a museum display cage as children peer in through the wire
© Snibston Discovery Park
Extra Ordinary, a new interactive science exhibition demonstrating the impact inventions and technologies have had on our lives, opened at Snibston Discovery Park on Saturday November 26 2005.
Including a timeline display of the major inventions in human history, the gallery shows how indispensable devices such as computers, wireless communication, energy control, engine combustion, electro-magnetism and robotics have become.
The interactive element allows visitors to perform such tasks as lifting up a car, programming a computer, pitting their wits against a robot or generating electricity. Funding for Extra Ordinary came from a £452,837 grant from the Millennium Commission.
Image: shows two children using hydraulics and rope to lift a mini car
© Snibston Discovery Park
“Exhibits such as these bring science alive. They enable people to find out how science affects us and the possibilities it has for our everyday lives,” said Judith Donovan CBE, Millennium Commissioner.
The aim is to get people thinking about how their lives are affected by technologies and asks what life would be like without the amenities we have come to take for granted.
At the end of the experience guests are able to vote for their favourite device.
Image: shows two children tryimg to move a large piece of rock whilst a boy uses a lever to the same
© Snibston Discovery Park
“The aim of the Extra Ordinary gallery is to promote awareness of how technology affects every aspect of our lives," added curator Brian Kennedy. "By adding a voting element we hope that people will really think about the technology in their lives and will have fun while they do so.”
Situated in on the site of a former colliery Snibston Discovery Park combines art, history and the largest fashion gallery outside of London to offer an interactive, family day out.
Snibston Discovery Park
Snibston Discovery Park, Ashby Road, Coalville, LE67 3LN, Leicestershire, England
Open: Open daily 10.00-17.00
Closed: Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day, plus 1 full week in January for maintenance.
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