History of the Science Center
1960
The Queen Elizabeth Planetarium, located to the east, operated as the Edmonton's Planetarium, the predecessors to the Edmonton Space Sciences Centre.Inauguration and Purpose
Establishment: The Queen Elizabeth Planetarium opened its doors to the public in 1960. Located to the west of Edmonton’s city center, the planetarium was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, reflecting the era's enthusiasm for scientific exploration and public education in astronomy. Purpose: Designed to serve as Edmonton's primary venue for astronomical and space science education, the planetarium aimed to foster public interest in the cosmos. It was equipped with a star projector, which allowed it to simulate the night sky and provide educational programs about stars, planets, and celestial events.Design and Features
Seating Capacity: The planetarium was originally built with a seating capacity of 65, which was considered adequate at the time of its opening. The intimate setting allowed for a personalized experience but soon became a limitation as demand for educational and public outreach programs increased. Educational Role: The Queen Elizabeth Planetarium played a crucial role in introducing the citizens of Edmonton, particularly students, to the wonders of space. Its educational programs included presentations on astronomy, space science, and the natural phenomena observable in the night sky.1980
The City of Edmonton selected the Edmonton Space Sciences Centre as the City's flagship project commemorating the Province of Alberta's 75th Anniversary. The original building was designed by architect1984
The Edmonton Space Sciences Centre opens to the general public1990
The Edmonton Space Sciences Centre officially changes its name to Edmonton Space and Science Centre1993
A new expansion adds 15'000 square feet of space split over two floors. Accompanying this expansion, new facilities lobby, Gift Shop, IMAX Theatre entry, Cafe, large gallery for travelling exhibits, and Visitor Services facilities are all added, as well as a refit of old space.2001
A $14-million expansion was announced with the addition of a new name, the Odyssium.2005
The Odyssium is renamed the Telus World of Science Edmonton with a sponsorship established with2016-Present
A plan – the Aurora Project – is announced to revamp the science centre. It is budgeted at $41.5 million. The expansion includes: * A new DVT (Digital Visualization Theatre). * New galleries. * An upgraded restaurant. * A new front entrance. * A new gift shop. 2016-2018- Phases 1 and 2 are complete with a newly refurbished Purple Pear Restaurant, a complete overhaul of the ''Zeidler Dome'' and the reimagined ''S.P.A.C.E. (Stars, Planets, Astronauts, Comets, etc.) Gallery'' 2018-2022- Phase 3 is completed with the addition of new galleries: Nature Exchange, Curious City, and Health Zone are all redone, and the expansion of the Science Garage was completed 2022-2023- Phase 4 Arctic Expedition and front entrance opens and the Aurora Project is completeFacilities
IMAX Theatre
A 275-seat theatre showing current educational movies, shot in high resolutionMargaret Zeidler Star Theatre
The 250-seat large dome theatre that was formerly used for laser shows and star shows. It was the largest such theater in Canada when the center opened in 1984. In 2008, the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre changed its projection system and educational content to a full dome immersive video experience. The Telus World of Science Edmonton was the first planetarium and science center in Canada to showcase this new technology for domed theatres. Admission to shows in the Star Theatre is included in general admission. The Star Theatre is additionally equipped with high powered lasers for weekly laser shows.Purple Pear and Gift Shop
The science centre has a café for visitors and for special events such as fundraisers. The café was undergoing renovations as of early 2016 with an estimated completion by the end of August 2016, though it was delayed until November 2016. The café is also responsible for providing the concession, which is currently hosted in the main lobby, next to the box office. In November 2016, the cafe re-opened, but under a new name, The Purple Pear and a new focus on fresher, and local ingredients. They were also the first location in Western Canada to use tagged Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. There is also a gift shop in the lobby, featuring a range of educational products, books, gift items, and other knick-knacks.Coronation Park facilities
Queen Elizabeth II Planetarium (QEP)
Built in 1959, the Queen Elizabeth Planetarium was the original home of the science centre. The RASC previously ran the QEP from 1960-1983 until the Edmonton Space Science foundation took over soon afterward. In 2016 the City of Edmonton announced plans to restore the planetarium and grant it full heritage status. On July 1, 2023, the QEP was opened to the public and is now operational.Observatory
Built the same time as the original Edmonton Science Centre, the Observatory opened its doors in 1984. This outdoor structure is located in Coronation Park and It is free of charge, but it opens only when the weather permits, and it closes if the temperature is below . It is equipped with seven telescopes, including a Meade 16" LX200, a Starfire refractor, and three solar telescopes all provided by thePast Feature Exhibits
After opening in 2012 this 1,500-square-metre (16,000 sq ft) gallery has hosted large temporary exhibits that are included with general admission (with some exceptions). Past exhibits had included: STAR WARS™ Identities: The Exhibition (2012) Body Worlds & The Cycle of Life (2013) Harry Potter™: The Exhibition (2013) Indiana Jones and the Adventure of Archaeology (2014) Dinosaurs Unearthed (2015) International Exhibit of Sherlock Holmes (2016) Angry Birds Universe (2016) New Eyes on the Universe (2017) The Science Behind Pixar (2017) Popnology (2018) Dinosaurs Unearthed: Down to the Bone (2018) Body Worlds: Animal Inside Out (2018) Mythbusters (2019) Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes (2019) The Science of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! (2020) EXPEDITION: DINOSAUR (2021) James Cameron Challenging The Deep (2021) Apollo 11: When we went to the moon (2022)Building Design
The Edmonton Space Sciences Centre, which later became the Telus World of Science Edmonton, was designed by renowned architect Douglas Cardinal and officially opened its doors to the public in 1984. The building’s design is celebrated for its striking use of organic, fluid forms that reflect Cardinal’s signature architectural style. Emphasizing natural curves and asymmetrical shapes, the structure was conceived to symbolize the dynamic and ever-changing nature of science and technology. The building’s exterior features sweeping curves and an undulating roofline, creating a sense of movement and fluidity that mirrors the themes of exploration and discovery inherent to the institution. The use of concrete and glass in the design not only provides a modern aesthetic but also allows for extensive natural light, enhancing the visitor experience within the spacious interior. The design also includes a large dome theatre, which was a significant technological feature at the time, serving as a focal point for educational and public programs. This innovative approach to architecture not only set the Edmonton Space Sciences Centre apart from other facilities but also established it as a landmark in both scientific and architectural communities (Edmonton Journal, 1984; Douglas Cardinal Architecture, n.d.). Douglas Cardinal’s design for the Edmonton Space Sciences Centre also reflects his commitment to Indigenous architectural principles and natural forms. Cardinal, of Métis heritage, incorporates Indigenous concepts of harmony with nature and respect for natural landscapes into his work. The building’s fluid, organic shapes are inspired by Indigenous art and the natural world, mirroring the rhythms of the land and sky. This approach aligns with Cardinal's broader philosophy of integrating cultural values and natural elements into architecture, enhancing the building's connection to its environment and cultural context (Cardinal, 2008; Alberta Architecture Foundation, n.d.).TWOSE Moon Rock
The Telus World of Science Edmonton (TWOSE) houses a notable moon rock, a sample collected during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Lunar Sample Number 15555,791, a basaltic fragment from the lunar surface, highlights the geological diversity of the Moon, formed from volcanic activity. It serves as a tangible connection to humanity's first crewed lunar landing, representing a pivotal moment in space exploration history. The moon rock at TWOSE is part of NASA's outreach program, aimed at sharing the wonders of space exploration with the public. This artifact underscores the Moon’s volcanic past and the significance of the Apollo missions.2008 Radio Station Incident
The Edmonton Science Centre, now known as the Telus World of Science Edmonton, played a crucial role in a notable rescue operation in 2008 when its radio station helped save a stranded boat. On a cold November evening, a boat carrying a family became stranded on a remote lake due to engine failure and worsening weather conditions. The boaters, in dire need of assistance, used a distress signal that was picked up by the Telus World of Science Edmonton’s amateur radio station, which was equipped with advanced communication systems. The radio station staff, utilizing their expertise and equipment, quickly coordinated with local emergency services. They relayed crucial information about the boat's location and the situation to rescue teams. Their prompt and efficient communication was pivotal in directing rescuers to the stranded boaters, who were eventually brought to safety. This incident underscored the importance of the science center’s radio station and its role in community safety and emergency response, highlighting the value of its resources and the commitment of its staff to public service (Global News Edmonton, 2008; CBC News, 2008).Arctic research
TWOSE is an active member of theSee also
* Telus World of Science (disambiguation) * TELUS Spark Science Centre, Calgary * List of astronomical observatories in CanadaReferences
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