Carnegie Science Center
Permanent exhibition
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Water covers 71% of the Earth’s surface, makes up about 60% of the human body and appears in nature as a solid, liquid and gas. Wondrous water is a highly valuable resource, but also highly at risk. Close to home, Pittsburgh’s past, present and future are inextricably tied to our many waterways.
Explore why our rivers matter at the latest major permanent exhibition to open at Carnegie Science Center on the North Shore.
Featuring a mix of interactive exhibits, live animals and plenty of hands-on waterplay, H2Oh!: Why Our Rivers Matter is appropriately set against a backdrop boasting dramatic views of the confluence of Pittsburgh’s three mighty rivers.
Observe real-time data from river monitoring systems showing the temperature, pH and water levels of Pittsburgh’s rivers, and discover how rooftop infrared cameras capture temperatures of river surfaces and downtown buildings. Freeze water and study its motion in high-definition videos, head to the field station to see live animals who call this region home, such as fish, turtles, snakes and frogs and create a virtual watershed with hills and valleys made from sand.
Next, carefully load a barge to keep it afloat, turn a crank to make rain trickle from clouds and construct locks and dams. Channel your inner meteorologist at the WTAE Weather Station, as you step into the spotlight and see yourself on TV reporting the local weather!
Visitors of all ages will discover the science behind water at the exhibit’s special environment, conservation, fluid dynamics and field station displays. Together, children and families will also learn about why we all need to do our part to conserve water, especially during a time when population growth and increased development are leading to a critical global water shortage.
Carnegie Science Center is open Sunday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
