In "Fire and Combustion" visitors explore the chemical reaction in fire, measure the effects of different combinations of water mist on the fire, and even control lasers to observe convection currents around the flame."Tsunami Wave Tank" lets visitors select a wave type and intensity and then unleash it in a 30 foot wave tank to see its effects on a coastline. Visitors can capture and replay footage of their wave for further examination."Tornado Intercept" is a multi-player game that uses a combination of video and animation to embed visitors in a storm chasing team as they track storms in Tornado Alley. The game first challenges visitors to locate the storms that are most likely to produce a tornado. Once a tornado has been spotted, players collaborate to measure and document the storm: deploying probes, controlling powerful radar equipment, and even filming the tornado with an IMAX camera.
While with Cortina Productions I was the lead interactive designer for this ground-breaking exhibition at the Museum of Science and Industry. In over 20 interactive experiences, visitors become active participants in science experiments, many of which are carried out directly in front of them.
Recognition
MUSE Award (Gold)
Reviews & Comments
“The FIRE – Combustion exhibit at the Museum of Science of Industry is a fabulous example of the happy collision between the real and the virtual, using digital tools to look at real phenomena in a new way. Through multiple interactive installations, the exhibit illustrates the chemistry of fire with surprising ease and simplicity; visitors can conduct a live-fire experiment, learn about combustion, engage in educational simulations, and make virtual fireworks that can be emailed home. The panel found the exhibit to be an exemplary model for how technology can be applied in service to an educational goal that would otherwise challenge museum educators, and were particularly impressed by the way the exhibit engages visitors in the scientific method, empowering them to conduct real and virtual experiments that can't be done at home.”
