About Our Exhibits
Storytelling brings to life the excitement of scientific research, discovery, and careers, fostering a deeper understanding of science. We share captivating science stories through dynamic traveling, temporary, and permanent exhibits.
NSF NCAR Mesa Lab Visitor Center
Touch a cloud, consider chaos, steer a hurricane, take a look at the Sun, and browse art-science galleries. At the U.S. National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR) Mesa Lab Visitor Center in Boulder, CO, our exhibits will take you on a hands-on journey through the world of weather, Earth systems, and NSF NCAR’s history.
The exhibits are open 363 days a year from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Visitor Center staff are onsite and available during weekday business hours only. Public Tours of the Mesa Lab, including its Visitor Center and exhibits, are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at noon, excluding holidays.
Featured Exhibit
Run your hands over a tactile interpretation of the Sun, create an aurora, or imagine you’re a researcher at a solar observatory – these are just some of the hands-on activities you can do on a visit to the newly revitalized Sun-Earth Connections exhibit at the NSF NCAR Mesa Lab.
Traveling Exhibit
UCAR SciEd collaborates with NSF NCAR Education, Engagement & Early-Career Development (EdEC) on Resilient Earth, Resilient Communities, a traveling exhibit about Earth system science, making observations of severe weather, and building resilience to local hazards. This exhibit tours communities across the United States to encourage dialogue and engagement on these important topics.