Discovering the Heart of Albuquerque's
Scientific Marvel
Nestled near the charming Old Town
Albuquerque in New Mexico, United States, lies an extraordinary haven of
knowledge and exploration – Explora. This iconic science center beckons
visitors of all ages to embark on a journey of discovery and inquiry. Let's
delve into the captivating world of Explora, where science, art, and
imagination converge seamlessly.
The Imperative Journey: Unveiling Explora's
Essence
Explora: a word that resonates with the
essence of exploration and curiosity. Its name derives from the Spanish
language verb "explorar," which translates to "to explore."
A fitting moniker for a place that encourages hands-on, immersive learning
experiences.
A Tapestry of Knowledge: Explora's
Multifaceted Offerings
Diving into Explora's realm, you're greeted
with a symphony of interactive exhibits spanning across 20,000 square feet.
Spread over two floors, the center houses over 250 captivating displays
encompassing a wide spectrum of scientific marvels, technological wonders, and
artistic expressions.
Unveiling the Marvels: Notable Exhibits
Laminar Flow Fountain: Immerse yourself in
the mesmerizing dance of water as you witness the laminar flow fountain in
action. A true testament to fluid dynamics!
Experiment Bar: Unleash your inner
scientist at the experiment bar, where concoctions of curiosity are crafted and
mysteries unraveled.
Arts and Crafts Area: Fuse science with
creativity in the arts and crafts area, where imagination knows no bounds.
High-Wire Bike: Experience the thrill of
physics as you navigate the high-wire bike, defying gravity and mastering
balance.
Beyond Exhibits: A Holistic Experience
Explora is more than just a collection of
exhibits; it's a holistic experience that ignites the flames of curiosity and
nurtures a deep appreciation for the world around us.
Enriching Encounters
Performance Theater: Immerse yourself in
captivating science demonstrations and thought-provoking presentations that
bridge the gap between education and entertainment.
Gift Store: Extend your exploration with
unique souvenirs and educational resources from Explora's thoughtfully curated
gift store.
Educational Program Areas: Engage in
tailored programs designed to inspire minds of all ages, nurturing a lifelong
passion for learning.
Nurturing Curious Minds: A Historical
Odyssey
The Genesis of Exploration
The seeds of Explora were sown in the early
1980s, as two distinct groups unknowingly converged on similar aspirations –
the creation of a children's Exploratorium and a science and technology
Exploratorium. In 1984, Explora officially took shape, while parallel endeavors
unfolded under the New Mexico Academy of Science's wing.
A Consortium of Visionaries
In a testament to unity, Explora, the New
Mexico Academy of Sciences, and HealthQuest, an organization dedicated to
health education, formed a consortium. Together, they envisioned a pioneering
facility that would enrich lives and advance education.
From Vision to Reality
The wheels of progress turned, and in 1987,
a quality of life tax project was approved. This marked the beginning of a
journey that led to the birth of Explora Science Center. The culmination of
tireless efforts was realized in 1993 when Explora opened its doors in Downtown
Albuquerque's First Plaza Galleria.
A Beacon of Recognition: Illuminating
Achievements
Explora's impact reverberates through
accolades that celebrate its unwavering dedication to education and innovation.
Celebrated Accolades
Best of Burque: The Alibi crowned Explora
the Best Recreational Program for Kids, lauding its ability to kindle
excitement and learning in both young minds and curious adults.
Shafer Leading Edge Award: In collaboration
with the Pacific Science Center, Explora was honored with the 2010 Shafer Leading
Edge Award. This recognition spotlighted the Portal to the Public program's
excellence in fostering meaningful interactions between scientists and
visitors.
IMLS Medal: The Institute of Museum and
Library Services bestowed the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library
Service upon Explora in 2010. This accolade underscored the institution's
profound impact on the community.
Embarking on Your Explora Journey
As you traverse the vibrant tapestry of Explora, you're invited to immerse yourself in the boundless wonders of science, art, and exploration. Engage, discover, and ignite your curiosity at this beacon of knowledge.
Learn about the history of Albuquerque, NM
