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Birmingham, McWane Science Center, Bionic Me, technology, science — Discovering the latest in technology at McWane Science Center. Photo via Scitech

Have you ever wondered how a bionic eye works? Or wanted to control a computer using the power of your mind? Visit McWane Science Center’s newest traveling exhibit, Bionic Me by Scitech opening Sunday, May 19. Get tickets now.

Here are three reasons you don’t want to miss Bionic Me:

1. You’ll Discover the Latest in Technological Advancements

It’s no secret that our world is being overtaken by technology. But Instagram and Netflix aren’t the only forms of tech that are growing by leaps and bounds. Advancements are also occurring every day in medical engineering that are creating new opportunities to those who endure physical disabilities.

How does a prosthetic arm work? What is it like to have a bionic eye?

Through graphic panels, problem solving tasks and hands-on activities, Bionic Me at McWane Science Center will show you just how much technology can increase the potential of the human body.

2. There is Something for Everyone

Bionic Me may be designed for kids ages five to 12, but the exhibit provides a broad appeal to fascinate and inform those of all ages—even teens who are hard to impress.

Elementary schoolers will love pitting themselves against athletes to try and run the fastest. Middle schoolers will be enthralled in the challenge of computer interfacing. Adults and families alike will enjoy testing the exoskeleton and jet pack together. See, this exhibit offers something for everyone.

3. It Features Over 20 Exhibit Components

Another thing to note about Bionic Me is its size. Believe me when I say this is no small exhibit. It measures between 4,300-6,500 square feet. This means it will stretch the length of an entire floor at McWane Science Center!

Why is it so large? Because it features over 20 exhibit components, with lots to see, do and discover. Here’s a look at some of the highlights from Bionic Me.

Mind Control

Have you ever wished you could move objects using solely the power of your mind? In Bionic Me’s Mind Control section, you can! Using a brain-computer interface, you and a friend can go head to head to see whose mind is “most powerful.” My sights are betting on yours!

Prosthetics

There have been astounding enhancements in prosthetics in recent years. In fact, they are advancing at a such a high-speed rate that prosthetics may soon surpass the ability of natural limbs. Wow!

How are they made and how do they work? Find out in this exhibit component that allows you to use a sensor to control a prosthetic arm. You can also test how well you do in a race against a paralympian. Think you will win?

Camouflage

If you could have one superhero power, what would you choose? For me, it would be the ability to make myself invisible. If you’re like me, then you will enjoy Bionic Me’s camouflage area that explores how technology can provide active camouflage and make you invisible!

UV Camera

Plan on hitting the beach this summer? You may want to check out Bionic Me’s UV Camera that lets you see just how much sun damage your skin already has. You’ll definitely want to pack lots of sunscreen after seeing these results.

3D Printing

3D printing is amazing to the eyes. But this component takes the intrigue one step further by allowing you to feel how scientists are using 3D printing to communicate images via touch.

Here’s a glimpse of a few more components you can discover from Bionic Me:

Bionic Eye: View the world through a bionic eye simulation.
Braille: Read Braille messages using your sense of touch.
Train Your Brain: Play a brain training game and investigate how it affects your performance.
Tunnel of Darkness: Explore a tunnel without using sight.
Wind Tunnel: Test different accessories in a wind tunnel to see how they feel and perform.

“We understand the need for access to educational experiences that exists in our community and are proud to support the McWane Science Center’s Bionic Me exhibit. This hands-on exhibit is a great way to inspire our students to consider future careers in science and technology.”
Leigh Collier, Region Bank President, Wells Fargo

McWane Science Center thanks Wells Fargo for their sponsorship of this exhibit and their continued commitment to science education.

Admission

There’s no excuse not to learn something new. Inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers when you visit Bionic Me at McWane Science Center between May 19 and September 2. Exhibit is included in price of general admission. Buy tickets now.