Italian physicist and astronomer Galileo, one of the major figures in the Scientific Revolution, is often called “the Father of Modern Science, ” His contributions to the development of the telescope and his subsequent observations, as well as his innovative approach to the scientific methods helped him become one of the most renowned pioneers of the field. On display from April 4 to September 7, 2009 at the Franklin Institute Science Museum is an illuminating exhibit showcasing Galileo’s accomplishments and success, which includes nearly 100 artifacts never before seen in Philadelphia.
For this exciting exhibit, The Franklin teamed up with Florence Italy’s Istituto e Museo di Storia della Scienza and the Medici Archive Project to showcase Galileo’s prominent influence on astronomy, physics, math, and modern science in general. Discover a world of innovation, exploration, and endless possibilities as you wander among paintings, prints, and manuscripts from the Medici collection, as well as many of Galileo’s instruments including one of the last two Galileo telescopes, leaving Italy for the first time. The exhibit is located on the third floor of the main Science Center and also offers an audiocast that you can download onto an mp3 player, and an optional cell phone tour, allowing you to access information recordings through your cell phone. Advance tickets are strongly recommended, and orders can be placed by phone or online.
Corresponding with the opening of Galileo, the Franklin is hosting astronomy themed weekends throughout all of April and May. This special program features various hands-on exhibits such as The World’s Cheapest Spacesuit, during which a much less expensive version of an authentic spacesuit is created right in front of you. For a hands-on exploration of Galileo’s accomplishments, visit the Telescope Cart, which allows you access to a telescope very similar to that of Galileo’s. At the What Was Galileo Thinking? Live Show, witness his legendary experiments as they are put to the test, with help from audience members, of course. These activities are part of the Sci-Pass admission, which also includes one planetarium show at the spectacular Fels Planetarium. The Galileo exhibit requires an additional ticket.
- Danielle Baldassini
Exhibit Information
- Admission:
- Adults -- $20.75, Seniors -- $19.75, Children (4-11) -- $14, Groups (15 or more) – Adults -- $14, Youth Groups -- $7.75
- Hours: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm daily
- Individual Sales: 1-877-TFI-TIXS, Group Sales – 1-800-285-0684
- Contact:
- Location: 222 N. 20th Street Philadelphia, PA 19103
- Phone: 215-448-1200
- Website: www2.fi.edu
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