The polar lights, known as “Aurora Borealis,” occur only during the freezing nights of the Earth’s polar regions. Just like stars, polar lights occur during the day, as well, though we cannot see them due to interference from sunlight. The duration of the polar lights varies from half a minute to more than half an hour. The moving speed of the polar lights is also highly variable, and their kaleidoscopic nature creates the most unforgettable of sights and experiences one may have in a lifetime.
The Arctic Ocean is surrounded by Eurasia and North America. In winter, it is often covered with ice while in summer, the ice melts and breaks apart due to the elevated temperature. A variety of waterways and icebergs are then formed, creating habitats for various marine creatures, such as the polar bear.
The Antarctic Ocean surrounds Antarctica. In winter, it is covered with ice and creates a harsh habitat for lifeforms. However, in summer, alga and krill below the ice surface bloom and attracts squid, penguins, seals, and whales to feed, forming a unique food chain.
Most polar animals possess either dense feathers, furs or blubber to insulate themselves from the cold, though many migrate to warmer waters during the winter. Those that remain during such inhospitable times exhibit behaviors such as hibernation or “group snuggling” to survive.
King penguins are non-nesting birds. During the two-month hatching period, the parents take turns keeping their precious egg warm by tucking it under the skin between their feet and belly. During the reproductive season, as many as a million pairs of king penguins will aggregate and attempt to attract mates by, for instance, making loud sounds and/or constantly flapping their yellow feathers.
The “Fossil Discovery” exhibit is a series of interactive games that allow visitors to discover a fossil by digging, restoring and finally comparing the found fossil with previous records. Visitors can learn about fossils from different perspectives and as a result, gain an interest in learning more about them and the ancient organisms that left behind such biological artifacts.
Visitors get to meet all sorts of living creatures while wandering in the kelp forest maze. They can learn about their sizes, weights, shapes, behaviors, sounds and texture through interactive simulations. Visitors will ideally gain a broader knowledge of the kelp forest ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Children can safely explore the polar region by playing in a “polar playground” where they can learn about the different types of animals there.
“Mini Sub” is a game that simulates the collection of biological samples in the deep sea. Players can control the mechanical arm and obtain information from the sonar system. Visitors will be kept rather busy in the Mini Sub by controlling all sorts of operating instruments.
Vessel game is a game requiring participations and interactions of a minimum number of players. It resembles a movie theater in which the audiences can make decisions about which waters or routes they wish to explore. Seats are divided into the captain and passenger seats.