The Macau Science Center also known as Macau Science Center is a science center in Macau, China. The project to build the science center was conceived in 2001 and completed in 2009. The building was designed by Pei Partnership Architects in association with I. M. Pei - is instantly recognizable by its silvery, cone-shaped exterior. Of the fourteen galleries arranged in a spiral and accentuated by an arch shape, ten are now open and construction started in 2006. The structural engineer was Leslie E. Robertson Associates. The center was opened in December 2009 by the Chinese President Hu Jintao.
After Beijing and Hong Kong, Macau is the third city in the world to possess the 8000 x 8000 pixel screen equipment. The center also generates 3D effects via a high definition 3D projection system in the space theatre of the planetarium, the first digital system to be simultaneously equipped with ultra high definition (8000 x 8000) and 3D visual effects in the world – all designed to give visitors an entertaining yet educational insight into the fascinating world of science.
The main building has a distinctive, asymmetrical, conical shape with a spiral walkway and a large atrium inside. Galleries lead off the walkway, mainly consisting of interactive exhibits aimed at science education. There is also a planetarium with 3D projection facilities and Omnimax films. The building is in a prominent position by the sea and is now a landmark of Macau. It is very visible when arriving on the ferry from Hong Kong.
Train as a future astronaut, meet state-of-the-art robots, learn about sound and more at the Macau Science Center. With galleries dedicated to Science for Young Adults, Technology, Environment and Lifestyle, this hub of knowledge will surely entertain. For younger learners, the Children Science Gallery is always a hit with water-related exhibits and other hands-on activities.
Be sure to pay a visit to the Planetarium which was awarded the highest resolution 3D planetarium in the world by the Guinness World Records. The tilted semi-dome screen allows audiences to take a journey through space. Narrations in Cantonese, Mandarin /Putonghua, Portuguese and English are available through headphones for recorded programs.