Galileo world premiere at Waikato Museum

22 February 2021

Waikato Museum will be the first venue in the world to host a new interactive exhibition about Italian natural philosopher, astronomer and mathematician Galileo Galilei.

Galileo - Scientist, Astronomer, Visionary gets its world premiere on 24 February and pays tribute to a leading figure in the transition from natural philosophy to modern science. This family-friendly exhibition allows visitors to discover Galileo and his fundamental contributions to science through interactive displays.

Born in Pisa in 1564, Galileo Galilei pioneered the use of the telescope for observing the night sky and devoted his life to scientific experiments. An historical figure who touched on nearly every facet of scientific advancement, he changed the world’s vision of the universe through his revolutionary discoveries. As an astronomer, Galileo used observation and experimentation to interrogate and challenge traditional ideas.

Visitors to this new exhibition will be invited to explore Galileo’s technical innovations and study of motion and gain insights into how his pioneering work in science, physics and astronomy has shaped the modern world.

Waikato Museum Director Cherie Meecham said it’s a privilege to offer visitors the rare pleasure of experiencing Galileo’s legacy in an entirely new way. “A project of this scale is a real coup for Waikato Museum and I’m thrilled we are the first venue in the world to showcase this exhibition,” she said. “It’s ideal for children, families and school groups who are keen to experience science hands-on and in a fun way. Galileo’s accomplishments have strong links to the New Zealand Curriculum, so I’m looking forward to seeing our museum buzzing with students keen to learn from one of the greatest minds in human history.”

Galileo - Scientist, Astronomer, Visionary is an interactive experience designed to appeal to all ages. It has been developed by Italian exhibition studio Artisans of Florence, whose Da Vinci and Archimedes exhibitions have previously been hosted at Waikato Museum.

Galileo - Scientist, Astronomer, Visionary runs until 7 June, daily from 10am to 5pm.

Admission fee applies. There is a special combo deal for same-day admission to Galileo - Scientist, Astronomer, Visionary and Waikato Museum’s interactive science exhibition for children, Exscite. Visit waikatomuseum.co.nz to find out more.

For more information:

Elias Koronis, Communications Advisor

07 974 0428 | elias.koronis1@hcc.govt.nz