A day at the Science Centre
Took my daughter to the Montreal Science Centre down at the Old Port yesterday, ostensibly to see the Robot Follies show. It turns out that was a bit of a bust but we had fun with the other stuff. The place was quiet, most likely due to the weather.
The best part was the interactive stuff, including a daring example of balance and center of gravity. She was strapped into a chair riding on a cable and pulley setup, much like a high wire unicyclist would be. A 200 Kg weight was at the bottom of a pole some 10 feet below the chair. As a result the center of gravity of the chair and person was now below the cable, thereby basically guaranteeing the person could not fall.
Other cool things: a video screen made of mist used to display a mini lecture about whatever is on display at that station. Motion activated, the audio and video come on when the person gets within range. The audio is directed downwards by a dome reflector, insuring that only those within range will hear it. Those outside will not be bothered. Finally, a "cone of silence" that works! :-)
We followed up the visit with a late lunch / early supper (lupper? sunch?) at a nearby bistro.
Good times.