The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, or OMSI, is a must-visit destination in Portland, Oregon. The museum is located on the east bank of the Willamette River in the city’s Central Eastside Industrial District. The museum offers a diverse range of exhibits and activities that are perfect for families, science enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages.
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OMSI was founded in 1944 as the Oregon Museum of Science, Health, and Industry. The museum was established to promote science education and inspire the people of Oregon to become interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Over the years, the museum has grown into one of the most popular science museums in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year.
One of the main attractions at OMSI is the planetarium. The planetarium offers visitors a chance to explore the cosmos and learn about the stars, planets, and galaxies that make up our universe. The planetarium also features laser light shows that are set to music, providing a unique and immersive experience.
In addition to the planetarium, OMSI has a wide range of exhibits on display. Visitors can explore exhibits on paleontology, physics, chemistry, biology, and more. The exhibits are interactive and hands-on, allowing visitors to experience science firsthand. One of the most popular exhibits is the Turbine Hall, which features a giant hamster wheel that visitors can climb into and spin around in.
Another highlight of OMSI is the Kendall Planetarium. This state-of-the-art facility features a 52-foot dome that houses a digital planetarium projector. The projector is capable of displaying a 360-degree view of the night sky, providing an immersive experience for visitors. The planetarium also offers a range of shows and presentations that cover topics such as space exploration, astronomy, and the history of our solar system.
For those interested in engineering and technology, OMSI has an exhibit on the history of computing. The exhibit features a range of historic computers, including a replica of the Eniac computer, which was the first general-purpose electronic computer. The exhibit also features interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the evolution of technology over the years.
In conclusion, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The museum offers a diverse range of exhibits, programs, and workshops that are both educational and entertaining. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out or a science enthusiast looking to learn more about the world around you, OMSI is the perfect place to go. So if you’re in Portland, be sure to check out the museum and explore the wonders of science and technology.