Nano

Created by the Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network (NISE Network) with support from the National Science Foundation.

Discover a world you can’t see! Get the family together and become enthralled with the world of nanoscale science, engineering, and technology in an exciting, interactive exhibit.

Hands-on components present the basics of nanoscience and engineering, introduce some real-world applications, and explore the societal and ethical implications of this new technology.

Here are some “big” questions you’ll explore about nano:

Just how small is nano?

Well, come dive into the five exhibit components and find out!

What happens when things get smaller?

Small, smaller, nano: Explore progressively smaller magnetic materials — magnetite sand, iron powder and ferrofluid.

What’s new with nano?

Build a giant carbon nanotube: Have fun together and build a giant model of carbon nanotube out of foam pieces. Work atom by atom — just like scientists who are creating new nano technologies.

Where can you find nano?

I Spy Nano: Try a series of interactive challenges and then search a complex image for examples of real nano products and phenomena.

What does nano mean for us?

Balance our nano future: Balance blocks on a tippy table, which represents the challenge of working together to build a stable nano future. You can also explore:

• Static vs. Gravity: Spin disks containing small and large plastic beads while comparing the relative effects of static electricity and gravity on different size beads.
• Reading Area: Sit comfortably while learning more by reading books and boards.