Museum of Science

Could a spark ignite a lifelong passion for science? At the Museum of Science in Boston, that spark has been igniting imaginations since 1830. Originally founded as the Boston Society of Natural History, this institution has evolved into a dynamic center for exploration, now standing proudly in Science Park, straddling the Charles River between Boston and Cambridge. The Museum of Science isn’t just a building; it’s a testament to human curiosity. Inside, you’ll find over 700 interactive exhibits. These exhibits aren’t static displays; they invite you to engage, experiment, and discover. Every day, the Museum of Science pulses with live presentations, bringing complex scientific concepts to life. The Museum of Science boasts New England’s only domed IMAX theater, the Mugar Omni Theater, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world and beyond. The Charles Hayden Planetarium, recently renovated, transports you to the cosmos, revealing the mysteries of the universe. One of the museum’s most iconic exhibits resides in the Theater of Electricity. Here, you’ll encounter the world’s largest air-insulated Van de Graaff generator, a colossal machine that crackles with power. The museum’s history is a story of growth and transformation. After World War II, the museum relocated to its current location in Science Park, securing a 99-year lease for the symbolic price of $1 per year. This move marked the beginning of a new era, as the Museum of Science became arguably the first all-encompassing science museum in the United States. In the museum’s early years, they developed a traveling planetarium, bringing the wonders of space to schools throughout Greater Boston. They also welcomed Spooky, a great horned owl, who became the museum’s beloved mascot. Spooky lived to the remarkable age of 38, the longest lifespan recorded for a great horned owl. Today, Spooky’s legacy lives on in the museum’s collection of taxidermied specimens, educating visitors about the diverse fauna of New England and the world. In 1999, the Computer Museum in Boston merged with the Museum of Science, further enriching its offerings. Although most of the historical artifacts were moved to the Computer History Museum in California, the integration brought new educational displays and insights into the world of computing. More recently, the museum embarked on a significant renovation, fueled by a $250 million campaign. This initiative led to the creation of the Hall of Human Life, the Yawkey Gallery on the Charles River, and the “What Is Technology?” exhibit, further expanding the museum’s exploration of science and its impact on our lives. As you explore the Museum of Science, remember that you’re walking in the footsteps of generations of curious minds. From Spooky the owl to the colossal Van de Graaff generator, the museum’s exhibits and stories offer a unique blend of history, innovation, and the enduring power of scientific inquiry.