Fort Discovery
"We were a bit astonished when Albert Einstein approached us and asked if we'd ever 'smelled' lightning ... but you just can't say 'no' to someone of that caliber, so we followed him. It seemed stranger, still, that he was riding a giant tricycle. He explained that ozone is created by electrical charges in the atmosphere, then suddenly we found ourselves watching as a million volts arced through the air. With our hands over our ears the sound was muted, but we could definitely smell the ozone in the air."

Such experiences are the norm and not the exception for visitors to Fort Discovery on Augusta's famed Riverwalk. Granted that Mr. Einstein appears courtesy of remote control and interacts through two-way radio wave technology, but "Al" always makes a big impression on visitors to the center. Fort Discovery is a unique science center in many other ways as well, catering to the fun loving "learner" in everyone. The 270-plus hands-on and interactive exhibits challenge the minds and imaginations of visitors of all ages, ranging from toddlers in strollers to the proud grandparents who often guide them.

The Science Plaza is the outdoor portion where discoveries are made with a view of the scenic Savannah River. Here you can climb aboard a real helicopter, roll a thousand-pound stone (with only your fingertips), practice your putt on a "no-miss" green or feel the force of magnetism as you swing. You can also take a virtual rollercoaster ride or a trip to Mars aboard the "Morphis" (additional ticket may be required).

Fort Discovery's Science Court features a two-story gravity clock where billiard-size balls keep time as they follow numerous loops and paths. Nearby "Lake Discovery" offers the opportunity to explore sonar, waterpower and Morse code. By reflecting laser beams toward numerous targets, visitors can set off a series of reactions within the fountain.

KidScape brings out the explorer in even the youngest of scientists. Balls float in mid-air, shadows freeze, and virtual finger-paint produces masterpieces. There are even computers for experiencing the latest in preschool software.

The Imaging and Perception area will teach you not to believe your own eyes. What you see is not what you get! It is our brain's interpretation of visual images that give things meaning. What do our eyes really see? And how do other visual tricks fool our brains? These answers, and more, are waiting to be discovered.

Fort Discovery's Communications Gallery is the largest exhibition area at the center. The history of communication is available as a hands-on experience. See, from the inside, telephones, televisions, radios, satellites and much more. Win the World Cup in soccer as a goalie (your live image and movement becomes part of a video game). Make your own video game, with you as the star (and take the CD with you to play again and again). Do a little skydiving and survive a hurricane, all captured on video as a souvenir. You can even experience "spy" technology by listening to sounds from other parts of the center via a large parabolic microphone.

In the Space Technology arena, you can experience the gravitational force of the moon. What happens when an unexpected force tries to throw a spaceship off course? Try it and find out.

The Math, Motion and Momentum expo would make Mr. Einstein proud. Have you ever wondered what all those math and physics formulas really mean? You'll find out, AND you'll enjoy doing it. After riding on a cushion of air and a magnetic field, biking smoothly on square wheels and sending a hot-air balloon skyward, you'll be on your way to your own Nobel prize.

Robotics, as a science, is constantly changing. It is certainly changing the way we live, which makes it all the more exciting. Whether setting up a robot obstacle course, trying your own hand at operating a robotic arm, or challenging a robot to a race in puzzle assembly, Fort Discovery takes you to the outer limits of this developing technology.

As science and technology continue to evolve, so do the exhibits and attractions at Fort Discovery. Special shows and activities include theater experiences, live demonstrations and guests. Whether it is Glenn Frey of the Eagles dropping by to lend a little musical talent to science, or Dr. Robert Ballard (who found the Titanic) sharing some of his adventures, there is always something new and exciting happening at the center.

Fort Discovery is open seven days a week, with the exceptions of Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Call for specials and group rates 1-800-325-5445 or visit the website.

Provided by: Best Read Guide