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Phase 2 Expansion

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.	What is Phase II?
A.	In 1988, the Science Center began work on a Master Plan, which calls for the Science Center to offer four different Worlds of exhibits--each World focusing on a different science theme. During Phase 1, which was completed in 1998, the Science Center (formerly known as the California Museum of Science and Industry) was completely rebuilt, and the first two Worlds of exhibits--Creative World and World of Life--were opened. As part of Phase 2, the Science Center will be adding of the third exhibit World--World of Ecology, an all-new exhibit pavilion with realistic habitats and live animals. Additionally, we will be expanding the World of Life exhibit hall and the Weingart Special Exhibits Gallery, as well as adding new offices and shop spaces. During Phase 3, the final stage of the Master Plan, we will build Worlds Beyond, a new exhibit gallery exploring our universe.
Q.	What is the World of Ecology?
A.	The World of Ecology is a whole new exhibit area that will invite you to become an ecosystem explorer, discovering connections between living things and the world around them. You’ll find out how animals and plants adapt to their environments, how resources are moved from place to place, and how big cycles and processes reach across the entire face of Earth. The World of Ecology will include indoor and outdoor exhibit spaces and recreated environments such as a Southern California kelp forest, a Southeast Asian rain forest and a Sonoran desert.
Q.	What will I be able to do in World of Ecology?
A.	In World of Ecology, you’ll become an explorer setting out to discover amazing, realistic habitats from around the world. You’ll be able to peer out into the tops of trees in the rain forest, feel the spray from a flash flood rushing through the desert, soak up the underwater beauty of a majestic kelp forest and more. On your journey, you’ll see live plants and over 150 species of live animals--all from a scientist’s point of view. You’ll also experience over 175 new hands-on exhibits to help you dig deeper into the science of each exhibit zone.
Q.	When will World of Ecology open?
A.	In 2010.