Springfield Science Museum exhibit explores climate changeDate: 3/7/2022 WESTERN MASS. – Climate change and its ever-changing impacts take center stage at a new Springfield Science Museum exhibit entitled “Under the Arctic: Digging into Permafrost.”
The exhibit, which will be operational until May 1, is a byproduct of collaboration between the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF). While climate change is an expansive subject, the interactive exhibit views the ongoing issue through the spectrum of the arctic and the degrading permafrost landscape existing under its surface.
“Climate change is a topic we want to explore more and more,” said Science Museum Director Jenny Powers in an interview with Reminder Publishing. Powers discussed how the “Under the Arctic” exhibit demonstrates a form of system science, which analyzes the complexities of one nuance of an entire system. She also shared that the exhibit represents a new leaf for the Science Museum, with climate change not being as proactively highlighted in the past.
“Under the Arctic” guides visitors through the permafrost in a variety of formats. Testimonials from scientists and inhabitants of the land communicate dire changes occurring within the arctic ecosystem, while interactive activities allow visitors to get a first-hand look at the implications of the overheating atmosphere. The exhibit also includes a 30-foot-tall Alaskan permafrost research tunnel replica, which allows visitors to see the permafrost layer firsthand.
One of the exhibit’s central takeaways is the rapid rate of transformation within the arctic climate. Lydia Akeya from Savoonga, AK, said ice used to form around the community during Thanksgiving time, but now her area doesn’t see ice forming until January. Burkher M. Ivanoff from Unalakleet, AK, also stressed that lakes are gradually disappearing due to the melting Alaskan landscape.
“The fact that it’s disappearing is a big problem,” said Powers, who also shared that humans and wildlife endure continual struggles in their adaptation to the rapid change.
Powers also discussed the importance of making the exhibit and its information accessible for all audiences. She expressed her hopes that the exhibit relays the urgency of climate change by showcasing it’s scientific and real-world impacts. “We really need the public to understand climate change is real and it’s happening,” said Powers.
Along with focusing on the arctic landscape, the exhibit also highlights ways society can adapt with the evolving climate. Interactive elements of “Under the Arctic” send a call to action to the population and industries at large, stressing the importance of developing renewable energy sources, empowering the younger generation to be outspoken advocates and highlighting industry collaborations that try to curb climate change’s immediate impacts.
With both facets of the exhibit, Powers shared her hopes that the visitors will gain a further understanding of the complex issue. “Whether people believe in climate change or not, we want to be prepared,” said Powers.
The Springfield Museums are open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Readers can learn more about the “Under the Arctic: Digging into the Permafrost” exhibit and Museum admission at https://springfieldmuseums.org/.
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