Forces of Nature
The Science Center's second new long-term exhibit gallery, as part of Whitaker Center’s Exhibit Master Plan. Through compelling stories of natural forces and environmental change, Forces of Nature is both an exciting new thematic area and a relevant science topic that affects everyone’s daily life.
“The redesign and renewal of our Science Center has been a tremendous opportunity, to create a whole new generation of learning opportunities,” said Michael L. Hanes, Ph.D., Whitaker Center President and CEO. “Forces of Nature is a great example of our commitment to explore new technologies to enhance and enrich the learning experience for all of our visitors. I am particularly pleased with the range of exhibits in the gallery; there is something of interest for all age groups and learning levels. We have been fortunate to bring together a collection of truly unique and distinctive exhibits in this engaging gallery.”
The new permanent gallery provides guests with the opportunity to experience a variety of extraordinary weather wonders ─ featuring physical “phenomenon-based” exhibits.
Science On a Sphere®
Whitaker Center is proud to be the first attraction in Pennsylvania to present the remarkable Science On a Sphere display. As the visual centerpiece of Forces of Nature, this five-foot animated globe showcases strikingly realistic images of many interesting global phenomena including: real-time weather, hurricane tracks, seismic activity, and ocean currents around the world. To further their experience, visitors can choose from a list of pre-recorded programs, in addition to live presentations by science center staff. Science On a Sphere was developed and funded by NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Earthquake Engineer
Science center guests can build small structures from wood blocks and then subject them toearthquakes of varying intensities ─ discovering how to construct earthquake-resistant buildings. Two ‘shake tables’ accommodate guests of all ages.
Seismograph
Seismographs are used by scientists to detect and study earthquakes around the globe. This working model allows guests to generate their own earthquake waves and see them displayed on a computer screen.
Mountain Building
This exhibit allows guests to explore the tectonic processes that slowly build mountains like the Appalachians. Sand covering the bottom of a large tub morphs into miniature mountain ridges and valleys, as the tub vibrates. Visitors can sculpt the sand to create an endless variety of landscapes.
Flood Table
Guests can experiment with a stream of water as it flows through a sandy miniature landscape to discover how it erodes and deposits soil ─ sometimes threatening communities along the way.
Touch a Tornado
Amid flashes of lighting and booms of thunder, a swirling cloud of vapor descends from the ceiling to form a writhing eight-foot-tall tornado. Guests can safely put their hand into the cool water vapor to feel the tornado’s airflow and see how it responds to their touch.
Time Scanner
Many natural phenomena happen too quickly or too slowly for us to see. This exhibit allows guests to study events like tornados, hurricanes, avalanches, and plant growth by easily controlling the speed and direction of high definition video clips.
Hurricane Chamber
Individuals or small groups can safely experience the awesome power of moving air within this exciting exhibit as other guests watch from outside the glass wind chamber. Wind speeds range from Gale Force (39 – 46 mph), through Storm Force (55 – 63 mph), up to Category I Hurricane Force (74 – 95 mph).
Rubbing Table
Children can make and take their own rubbings of endangered species of plants and animals found in Central Pennsylvania.
Whitaker Center received generous contributions to support the Forces of Nature gallery from Mark and Ellen Caldwell, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC, Jack Stover and Marsha Everton, and The Cliff Jones Trust. Grants for new technology and equipment were received from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In the near future, new educational programming supported by Educational Improvement Tax Credits from M&T Bank will be offered to school groups visiting the gallery.
