MANILA, Philippines - A replica of Lolong, the Guinness World Record’s largest crocodile in captivity; a mini studio where one can be a journalist for a day; a holographic and actual displays in touch screen monitors; a Mad Lab, which introduces kids to easy-to-do experiments on chemical reaction and buoyancy and even an enhanced Digistar Planetarium that leaves one star-struck.
These are some of the new attractions at the Nido Fortified Science Discovery Center and Planetarium (NFSDC) at the SM Mall of Asia.
The NFSDC reinvents the fun in learning in the ever-changing field of science and technology. The eight new adventures are Nature Works, All About You, the Transportation Zone, Be Connected, Earth and Space, the Marine Adventure, Go Green, and Science Matters.
Nature Works uncovers the lifecycle, physical attributes, habitat and functions of plants, animals and some endangered species. It also houses the Marsh Land and Crocodile Habitat Exhibit featuring a fiberglass replica of Lolong, the Guinness World Records’ largest saltwater crocodile in captivity.
All About You has interactive displays and exhibits that explore the human body. It demonstrates the development of the human body, its functions and hidden secrets. Here, kids can learn more about themselves — from their DNA to different sense organs and body systems, explained alongside human body trivia and health and nutrition tips.
The Transportation Zone chronicles the evolution of the different modes of transit — air, water and land vehicles. A number of audio narration stations talk about the history of transportation while visual displays give glimpses to the possibilities and designs of future travelling.
Be Connected highlights the world of communication — its history, early forms and breakthroughs. Guests will enjoy learning about the development of human communication — telephones, photography, television and radio, computers, and the Web and Internet.
The Earth and Space Gallery, meanwhile, brings visitors back to the heart of NFSDC — astronomy and Earth Science. Learn all about what are out there — the different planets, comets, moon and the sun that make up our solar system, the Milky Way Galaxy, and the galactic neighborhood beyond our boundaries. Just as important, this gallery drives us back to our home planet Earth — its conditions and changes through the years and what we can do to conserve and save it.
Marine Adventure still is the home of the talkative Mr. T who will now have more swimming buddies as this digital walk-through aquarium showcases what our marine resource has to offer.
Go Green updates guests on the importance of being green in our home and community. Find out more about the eco-friendly lifestyle through the 30-plus tips incorporated in a special green home built within the gallery.
Science Matters showcases physics and chemistry in a brand-new light, through interactive displays and features on atomic structures, motion, force and gravity, simple machines, energy and electricity, magnetism and the periodic table. The Mad Lab introduces kids to easy-to-do experiments on chemical reaction and buoyancy; while the Greatest Scientists Wall of Fame pays tribute to some of the world’s best minds.
For information, call 556-0331/556-2193 or visit www.sciencediscovery.ph.