Create a ruckus with some robots, float in zero gravity like a real astronaut and take a tour of a wartime submarine at Pittsburgh's most-visited museum.
The Carnegie Science Center is located in the northern Chateau neighbourhood of Pittsburgh. It opened in 1991 and, today, more visitors pass through its doors than any other Pittsburgh museum. From artificial robots to organic sea reefs, the science of sports to the history of submarines, there's something for everyone to enjoy here and you might just leave with a couple of new interests too.
Pittsburgh is one of the frontrunners in the robotics industry, earning it the nickname "Roboburgh", and this science centre has the largest robotics exhibit in the world. Roboworld lets you interact with automatons and explore the limits of artificial intelligence. Aaron the android artist has been programmed by a real-life artist to test if a robot can truly display natural creativity. Take the opportunity to play a round of air hockey with a robotic arm and see who triumphs, man or machine.
Moored not far from the centre is the USS Requin submarine, a relic of World War II. Immerse yourself in the history of those who manned this underwater explorer and take a look through the periscope for enemy vessels. Highmark SportsWorks® is located in the adjacent building and explores the links between sport, physics, chemistry and biology.
Discover over 400 species of plants and animals all living in an underwater ecosystem in the SeaScape area, and don't miss out on your chance to feed the fish! In the SpacePlace you can experience how an astronaut feels when floating in zero gravity or create your own rocket and see it blast off into the sky.
The shows at the Buhl Planetarium are simply out of this world. Stargazers, young and old, can sit back and take a trip into outer space to learn about the planets and constellations. The Omnimax theatre has the biggest screen, and the only dome screen, in all of Pittsburgh. You'll be enveloped in the sights and sounds and truly feel like you are part of the film.
You won't find it difficult to get here as Allegheny Subway Station is right next door and the train is free. The centre closes when there are Steelers games or other major events at nearby Heinz Field.
