Speed - Science in Motion
19 November 2005 - 12 March 2006
Formula One science comes to Taranaki with fast, furious and hands on fun for all ages. This exhibition takes the form of a race track complete with pit lane, workshop and physical testing environments, all designed to unravel the cutting edge science and technology behind motor sports.
The exhibition consists of 17 interactives that will inform and entertain.
The Race Track
In this area trainee drivers can test their skill in a race simulator. Change a tyre under Formula One conditions or compete against another driver in the Pedal Car Racing.
The Fitness Testing Area
Drivers are able to test their skill levels using anticipation, reaction time, peripheral vision and heart rate exhibits to see if they have what it takes to become a professional Formula One driver.
The Workshop
This area of the exhibition shows drivers how Formula One cars work focusing on the science behind engines, aerodynamics and motion.
Manager Puke Ariki Bill Macnaught describes the scope of the exhibition. ""There is so much more to 'Speed' than just racing cars. The technology of Formula One vehicles, with their complex physics and engineering, produces challenges for engineers, technicians and designers as they develop faster and faster machines that once were considered practically impossible to achieve.""
""Then you have the human endurance and biology factors that create the differences between me as a driver and Michael Schumacher, who is considered to be the top racing driver in the world at present. It isn't just his vehicle; it also has a lot to do with the man himself,"" says Mr Macnaught.
Over the summer months Puke Ariki will offer an exciting events programme combining with the 'Speed' exhibition. ""We have some well-known speakers from here and abroad,"" says Mr Macnaught, who is delighted with the support shown by the Taranaki community towards these events. ""There has been a lot of interest from local kart clubs, driver education and parent groups and the New Zealand Police for the events programme.""
Click here to view the exciting exhibition events and speaker programme
Click here for exhibition resources