Curious minds gather here. The Michigan Science Center stands as a beacon of discovery in Detroit. It inspires people of all ages to explore science, technology, engineering, and math.
Founded in 1970 by Dexter Ferry, the Michigan Science Center began as a vision. Ferry wanted to bring scientific fun to the city’s youth. In 1978, the center moved to its current location on John R Street. William Kessler designed the building.
The Michigan Science Center faced challenges. It closed briefly in the early 1990s due to funding issues. But it reopened in 1991. The Detroit Science Center then closed in 1999 for a massive renovation. A $30 million project tripled the exhibit space. New theaters and performance areas were added.
In 2008, the Detroit Science Center partnered with the Thompson Educational Foundation. Together they created University Prep Science & Math Middle School on the campus.
More trouble arose. The Detroit Science Center closed again in September 2011 because of money problems. But hope was not lost.
In late 2012, a new organization emerged. It was called the Michigan Science Center. It reopened on December 26, 2012.
Today, the Michigan Science Center boasts over 220 interactive activities. It features live stage shows and pop-up demonstrations. There are distance-learning programs too.
The Michigan Science Center includes Michigan’s only Chrysler IMAX Dome Theatre. There is also the Dassault Systèmes Planetarium. The Toyota Engineering 4D Theater excites visitors. The DTE Energy Sparks Theater provides entertainment.
Explore the 8,700-square-foot Science Hall for traveling exhibits. Discover galleries focused on space, life, and physical science. Don’t miss the United States Steel Fun Factory. An exhibit gallery is just for pint-sized scientists.
The Michigan Science Center is a Smithsonian Affiliate. This partnership allows Mi-Sci to share resources with other institutions. It brings additional programs, exhibits, and professionals to the museum. Members have opportunities for joint memberships with the Smithsonian.
The Michigan Science Center puts you at the center of science. It encourages questions and exploration. The center’s mission is to inspire curiosity. It promotes understanding of the natural world. It fosters appreciation for the built environment.
Since its grand reopening in 2001, the museum has served over 2.1 million visitors. The Michigan Science Center stands as one of the largest science museums in the country. So, let’s step inside and unlock the mysteries of science together.