Science and Technology, Canberra

Canberra Space Dome is a Planetarium and an observatory. The planetarium is state of the art with reclining seats, 360 degree dome ceiling and 1 million dollar projector. The observatory has some fairly big telescopes which let you peep at the stars and moons in our universe.

There is not much to do in Canberra but this place is definately worth a visit if you have an evening to kill.

The interactive science centre is an amazing place for kids and adults.The interesting models and the whole ensemble is a good way to spend a day.Their closing hours are 5 p.m. and so make sure you go there well in advance.There is a small coffe shop that sells snacks and drinks and also a shop selling science kits and soveniers.

There's no dull moment here for my family of three boys (9, 13 and 40ish-this one is my hubby!) as they enjoy visiting this attraction all the time whenever we're in Canberra.

Plenty of science exhibits are on offer, plus loads of hand on displays, activities, experiments, gadgets, etc. There are always something different- shows and roving crash dummies and fairies, etc.

My budding scientists who not surprisingly are very good in this subject in their respective grade/year/ career (hubby is a great computer programmer, ask his workmates) that we continuously do our best to explore more challenging pursuits and visits to this place are always a must!

Some regular exhibits are Eaten Alive, Awesome Earth, Wavelength, Mini Q, and more. Birthday parties are accepted here too for those lucky Canberra locals!

We are already planning another trip there as we still got family tickets which don't expire till April 2009!

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If I suggested that you visit The National Science and Technology Centre, built in 1988 as a joint Australian and Japanese project to celebrate the Australian Bicentenary, it would sound rather dull and technical. But if I said Whatever you do, don't miss Questacon I would be using the popular name for the same place - and believe me it is far from being dull and technical.

Questacon is a very interactive series of displays (some ongoing, but many changing often) designed to make science fun for kids of all ages. In it, you are involved in simple experiments to demonstrate science through personal discovery. As just a few examples, you can experience an earthquake, learn of the science behind fun parks, watch lightning strike, play with music and find out about acoustics, or test your latent sporting abilities. There are plenty of volunteer 'explainers' to provide any needed clarification of what things are about. Not surprisingly, it is a popular destination for school groups and usually is crowded on weekends.

Probably because the car parks are at the back, everyone seems to enter through the cafe rather than through the main entrance!

Main photo: Questacon as you approach from the carparks
Second photo: Entry via the cafe
Third photo: Questacon seen from the balloon

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The building interior is certainly different. What may look a little above the average outside is radically different on the inside.
In the second picture I'm actually heading towards the exit and, en route on this suspended walkway, they have a revolving mirror that totally surrounds you givng you the impression that you are actually turning.

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This is a fully hands-on science museum, listed as The National Science and Technology Centre. It's an unusual building, especially inside, where the walkway spirals upwards and the exhibition rooms are accessed through doorways as you ascend.
Though I enjoy it, it's fair to suggest it's aimed more at children and if you have them in tow, this is a worthwhile place to spend some time. Somewhere between 1-2 hours should pull you up, depending on how curious your children are.
They'll undoubtedly love the moving dinosaurs, guaranteed to scare the wits out of your three year old, on the ground floor, and they'll surely never forget the lightning strike, on cue around every thirteen minutes, about halfway through the building.
It was $14AUS per adult and half for kids when I visited but families can get discounts.

I remember the Questacon Centre being alot of fun way back in 1988. I assume it is still the same, but with alot more up-to-date exhibits.

The intention of Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre is to help people understand science, its importance, and its application to everyday life. Take the kids. It's one place where you never have to say "don't touch that!" as everything here is designed to involve both minds and bodies.

Hours:
9am-5pm Daily

Cost:
$14 adult, $8 child, $9.50 concession

If u are interested in the Science and Technology or rather u want to pump in more knowledge to your children on Sci n Tech, then Questacon is the place for u !!! Questacon featured a lot of sci and technology things that u will never be able to see in daily life. Things such as the light harp, the earthquake experience and etc.

The entrace fee is AUD$14 (adult) and if u are a student, u will have concession price at AUD$9.50.

open from 9 - 5pm daily (closed during xmas)

It is sandwiched between the National library and the High court of Aust. on the opposite of the road, u will be able to see Old Parliament house and New parliament house. so if u happen to go to OPH or NPH, do make a visit to Questacon, high court and also National gallery !!!