The launch pad is your starting point into the world of amazement! This is where you get to know the DNA of the phaeno: try things out, ask your own questions - and experience your first aha moments. Science and technology can be grasped in a playful, intuitive, surprising and absolutely hands-on way - so touching is definitely encouraged.
Whether children, teenagers, adults or entire groups:
This is where your journey from amazement to discovery begins.
The start ramp is the ideal place for a quick introduction to phaeno. Short, clear effects invite you to get active straight away. There is no right or wrong - just curiosity, playfulness and the desire to find out new things.
The launch pad shows what a science centre is all about: questions are more important than answers.
Because if you try things out for yourself, you will discover the secrets of science all by yourself.
"At phaeno, it is very important to us that you gain a basic understanding of the phenomena by touching, trying them out and playing. This is particularly evident in the launch pad." - Dominik Essing, curator of the phaeno
How can a two and a half metre high arch stand without glue, screws or supports?
With the bridge arch, you will discover how 21 bricks stabilise each other - as soon as the keystone is in place.
The bricks press against each other and stabilise themselves so well that the arch can stand on its own. This perfect arch shape is called a catenoid or chain line. It is very easy to construct. And the best thing about it: it's so much fun.
Artist Niklas Roy brings a real eye-catcher to the phaeno:
A 3 × 6 metre giant pinball machine in the middle of the ramp. Fans, hairdryers and household appliances shoot the balls - and at the same time show the entire technology of the pinball machine openly and playfully.
A work of art, a game, a technology lab. All in one: great fun for young and old.
We can't wait to see who will crack the next high score.
Three metres tall and full of surprises:
If you stand directly in front of it, you see yourself normally. But if you step back, the image tilts - and suddenly you're upside down!
You've never experienced optical laws so impressively.
With MEDUSA, US artist Bruce Shapiro presents a three-part kinetic installation in which art and technology merge in an impressive way. Digital control sets filigree aluminium ball chains in motion and creates flowing waves reminiscent of organic sea forms - lively, graceful and seemingly weightless.
Bruce Shapiro is one of the pioneers of "motion control art". Since the 1990s, he has been developing works at the interface of art and robotics, which can be seen in museums and science centres around the world. And now also in our museum.
Look forward to an impressive comeback: the iconic exhibit by German artist Trimpin shines in new, colourful accents following its makeover. It attracts everyone's attention as soon as you take the escalator up - a living work of art made of light, sound and movement.
Spheres circle in harmonious patterns on curved metal tracks. Levers of different lengths engage in a filigree system of wire ropes from which the coloured rings hang. Redesigned and clearly colour-coded, the movement sequences are now even easier to follow.
