Into a world of space robots and dreams

Youngsters take part in challenging activities related science, technology, engineering and maths. - Supplied photo

Over 17,000 visitors of all ages flocked to Mushrif Central Park in Abu Dhabi for the mega experience of Live Science exhibition. Since the opening, which took place on January 31, the event brought to life the world of aerospace, science and technology through a thrilling exhibition and interactive workshops.
Live Science is a joint initiative of the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) and Mubadala Development Company (Mubadala). It combines Boeing's Above and Beyond interactive science exhibition, exploring transformative innovations in aerospace, and a series of workshops presented by "lema? (Why)" the informal science education programme, organised by the Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee.
The exhibition commemorates Boeing's 100th anniversary in 2016, and was developed in collaboration with Nasa, the Smithsonian Institution, and leading experts and institutions from around the world.
So far, the event has proved to be a hit, with daily visits from school students to the exhibition, where youngsters from all age groups take part in interactive and challenging activities with particular emphasis on fields related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), which is anticipated to continue in the upcoming two weeks.
Ten year old Noora Malek told Khaleej Times that the event has inspired her, as well as her friends, to take on new scientific projects in school.
"Science hasn't always been a favourite subject for me, but after seeing all the fun things it involves, it changed how I feel," she said.
"I've always been fascinated by space though, I love knowing that there are planets beyond us."
"My mega dream would be to travel to space one day," she added.
Noora's mother believes that such initiatives are vital for youngsters growing up in the UAE.
 "I think it's necessary to create events and programmes that are not only fun for children, but also inspire them to live and learn."
 "Education is one of the most vital elements in life, so it's really wonderful seeing the young generation learn about what's truly around them," she noted.
Open until March 5, Live Science will offer a unique and educational experience for Abu Dhabi's youth. While at the event, visitors get to experience Above and Beyond's supersonic fighter-jet virtual competition and aircraft simulations among many other state-of-the art displays.
Running alongside Above and Beyond, the "lema?" interactive workshops give students the opportunity to learn more about science, including soundwaves through time and the mechanism of robotics.
Live Science is open to the public on weekdays from 4:00pm - 8:00pm (Sunday to Thursday), and weekends from 4pm - 9pm (Friday and Saturday). Entrance to Mushrif Central Park is Dh5 for ages four and above. "Lema?" workshops run Sunday to Thursday.
Entrance and access to "Live Science", including both Above and Beyond and "lema?" workshops are complimentary. Registration for the "lema?" workshops will be available online and allocated on a first come first serve basis - guests are advised to arrive early in order to secure a place.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi