Science and industry are two sectors that have greatly contributed to making the United States of America the country it is today. Without factories and industrial vehicles the country could not have become so wealthy and successful, and without computer technology and scientific research, it couldn't continue to be a world leader. The Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa celebrates these sectors, so if you're interested in how things work, you'll enjoy a visit to this museum. Here are some of the things you can view or take part in while you're there.
Exhibits
There are two types of exhibit features in the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI for short): permanent exhibits and special exhibits, such as DaVinci the Genius. Permanent exhibits are all hands-on and focused on learning everything from how weather is created to how wastewater pumps work. There are over 450 to explore including: Kids in Charge, Disasterville, High Wire Bike, Butterfly Garden, and the Human Body.
Camps and Programs
Education is the primary focus of the Museum of Science and Industry. There are a number of programs run by the museum which could help turn a kid from future applicator of non-welded fittings to award winning biologist. There are classes for home schooled children, field trips for regularly schooled kids, science based summer camps for kids of varying ages, programs and workshops designed to help families have fun and learn together, and programs that help boy and girl scouts earn merit badges.
Shows
If you'd like to sit back and relax after playing with electric cutters and science toys, visit one of the MOSI theaters. The Saunders Planetarium does between two and four shows per day on the universe, not just in space but here on earth and on other planets through NASA videos. The Skywatch telescope program is free on clear nights, and there's an IMAX theater with a revolving roster of educational and entertaining films from Under the Sea to Star Trek. Its dome display and surround sound are designed to create the impression of actually being there.
Research
It's no coincidence that the Museum of Science and Industry is located across the street from the University of South Florida. The pairing is more than just an excuse to make custom printed packaging. The two institutions are research partners, working to develop better ways to bring scientific education to people of all ages. They receive funding from the National Science Foundation, Florida Department of Education, and US Department of Education for their efforts, which include Project CLASS (which trains science teachers), MOSTI (which attracts scientists to teach), and the study of the effectiveness of science exhibits.
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