Telus World of Science Edmonton facts for kids
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| Former name | Edmonton Space Sciences Centre (1984–1990) Edmonton Space and Science Centre (1990–2001) Odyssium (2001–2005) |
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| Established | July 1, 1984 |
| Location | 11211 142 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T5M 4A1 |
| Type | Science centre |
| Visitors | 580,000 (2023) |
| Architect | Douglas Cardinal |
| Public transit access |   Westmount Transit Centre |
Telus World of Science Edmonton (TWOSE) is an exciting science centre located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It's run by a non-profit group called the Edmonton Space & Science Foundation. You can find it in Coronation Park, in the Woodcroft neighborhood. This science centre is huge, with over 144,000 square feet of public space. It is the largest science centre in Western Canada. TWOSE is also part of big science networks like the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC).
Contents
Discovering the History of TWOSE
The Telus World of Science Edmonton has a cool history. It started with a place called the Queen Elizabeth Planetarium. This planetarium opened in 1960 and was named after Queen Elizabeth II. It had a special projector that showed the night sky. This helped people learn about stars and planets.
Building a New Science Centre
In 1978, a group called the Space Sciences Foundation was created. Their goal was to build a new planetarium and science centre in Edmonton. A famous architect named Douglas Cardinal was chosen to design the building in 1979. The city of Edmonton approved the project in 1980. They wanted it to be a special project for Alberta's 75th anniversary.
The project faced some challenges, like choosing the best location. Finally, on December 17, 1981, they decided on Coronation Park. Construction began in March 1982. The new science centre was planned to open in 1984.
Opening and Early Years
The Edmonton Space Sciences Centre officially opened its doors on July 1, 1984. It quickly became a popular spot for learning and fun. Over the years, the centre changed its name a few times.
- On May 14, 1990, it became the Edmonton Space and Science Centre.
- From 1989 to 1993, the centre was renovated. It gained more exhibit space, a new cafeteria, and a gift shop. It also became easier for people with disabilities to visit.
- In 2001, after more expansions, it reopened as Odyssium.
- Finally, in 2005, it was renamed the Telus World of Science Edmonton. This happened because of a partnership with Telus Communications.
Modern Upgrades and Expansions
The science centre has continued to grow and improve.
- In 2013, the IMAX theatre got a big upgrade. The screen became the largest IMAX screen in Alberta. New digital 3D projectors were also added.
- In 2015, the IMAX theatre was upgraded again to a 4K laser projector system.
- Starting in 2016, the centre began a huge expansion project called Aurora. This project cost $41.5 million.
- New galleries like Nature Exchange, Curious City, and Health Zone were added.
- The Science Garage was expanded, and a new front entrance and gift shop were built.
- In September 2022, the Arctic Journey Expedition Gallery was completed.
Amazing Facilities at TWOSE
The Telus World of Science Edmonton has many cool features for visitors to explore.
IMAX Theatre
The centre has a large 190-seat theatre. It shows educational movies on a huge screen, about four stories tall! When it opened in 1984, it was the first IMAX theatre in Western Canada. The sound system is also very powerful, making movies come alive.
Zeidler Dome
The 200-seat Zeidler Dome is a special theatre. It's used for exciting laser shows and presentations about space. When the centre opened, it was the largest theatre of its kind in Canada. In 2008, it became the first planetarium in Canada to use a digital projection system. This system makes the stars and planets look incredibly real.
Food and Shopping
Visitors can grab a bite to eat at the Purple Pear restaurant. There's also a concession stand in the main lobby. If you're looking for a souvenir, the gift shop in the lobby has many educational products, books, and gifts.
Outdoor Discoveries at Coronation Park
The science centre is located in Coronation Park, which has its own interesting features.
Queen Elizabeth II Planetarium (QEP)
The original Queen Elizabeth Planetarium, built in 1959, is still there. It was the first home of the science centre. The City of Edmonton worked to restore it, and it reopened to the public on July 1, 2023.
Observatory
The Observatory opened in 1984, at the same time as the science centre. It's an outdoor spot in Coronation Park. You can visit it for free when the weather is good and it's not too cold. It has seven telescopes, including a large Meade 16" LX200. These telescopes are provided by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. They let you see amazing things in the night sky!
Unique Building Design
The building was designed by the famous architect Douglas Cardinal. His design is known for its flowing, natural shapes. The building's curves and wavy roof look like they are moving. This design shows how science and technology are always changing and exploring. The building uses concrete and glass, which gives it a modern look. It also lets in lots of natural light. The large dome theatre is a key part of the design. It was a very advanced feature when it was built.
Douglas Cardinal, who is Métis, also included Indigenous ideas in his design. He wanted the building to be in harmony with nature. The fluid shapes are inspired by Indigenous art and the natural world. This connects the building to its environment and culture.
A Piece of the Moon
The science centre is home to a real moon rock! This special rock was collected during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. It's a basaltic fragment from the Moon's surface. This rock shows that the Moon once had volcanic activity. It's a direct link to humanity's first trip to the Moon. The moon rock is part of NASA's program to share the wonders of space with everyone.
Arctic Research Connections
TWOSE is also part of the University of the Arctic (UArctic). UArctic is a big international network. It includes over 200 universities and organizations. They all work together to promote education and research in the Arctic region.
More to Explore
- Telus World of Science (disambiguation)
- TELUS Spark Science Centre, Calgary
- List of astronomical observatories in Canada
