Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
Imagination Station is planning to debut a new, highly interactive traveling exhibition that looks at the science, history and culture of ice hockey.
“Hockey: Faster Than Ever,” was set to open Jan. 31, however Imagination Station had to close temporarily due to a water line brake on Jan. 22. City of Toledo crews were promptly notified and shut off the water to prevent further damage. The city discovered a leak in the private water line, and as the property owner, the city will need to install a new water line to the building.
Thanks to a swift response by the Imagination Station team, damage to the facility and interactive exhibits was minimal, according to Sutton Reekes, communication and media manager.
Imagination Station will remain closed while repairs are completed. The science center’s outreach programs are continuing as scheduled.
Updates on the progress of repairs and the reopening date will be shared on Imagination Station’s website and social media channels. Imagination Station members will receive communication regarding events.
“Hockey: Faster Than Ever” will takes visitors on an exciting journey through the evolution of ice hockey, showcasing the technical advancements and scientific breakthroughs that have shaped the sport over time.
From cutting-edge technologies to the physics of play, the exhibition will engage audiences with the fusion of science and sport. Produced by Flying Fish, a renowned creator of traveling exhibitions, in collaboration with the Montréal Science Centre and support from the NHL and the NHLPA, this exhibition has been called a “must-see” for sports enthusiasts and science lovers.
“Physics is what propels ice hockey to be the exhilarating game it is today,” said Imagination Station chief scientist Carl Nelson. “Newton’s laws of motion, friction and energy transfers are all scientific dynamics happening on the ice during games, even if we don’t realize it initially. Our visitors will be amazed at how science is involved in one of our city’s favorite sports with this new exhibit.”
Visitors can test their skills and knowledge like true hockey pros with a variety of interactives:
• Have lightning-fast reflexes? Put them to the test in “Don’t Blink” and see how many lights you can hit in one minute.
• Feel the adrenaline rush as you step up to ‘Need for Speed’ and unleash your shot power – measure your slapshot speed and compete with your friends to see who has the fastest shot.
• Looking to finesse your aim? Hit the targets in “Score Like a Pro” and prove your precision with a puck. \ • Pay tribute to the pinnacle of hockey at “The Stanley Cup” touchscreen, where you can get up close to the most coveted trophy in sports history.
“Partnering with the Montréal Science Centre allowed us to create a unique experience celebrating both sports and science. We intended to show how technology, physics and innovation have transformed the game throughout history. We’re thrilled with the result – an exhibition that will fascinate sports enthusiasts and curious minds alike,” said Jay Brown, principal and managing director of Flying Fish.
Visitors to “Hockey: Faster Than Ever” can also snap a selfie with a real ice resurfacer and explore displays showcasing the evolution of skates and gear from the 19th and 20th centuries. In the hockey “Science Lab,” they can unleash their inner hockey player through hands-on challenges in a replica rink.
The exhibition also features a locker room outfitted with jerseys and more from NHL star players.
Admission to the exhibit is $5 for members and $7 for non-members. Imagination Station is located at 1 Discovery Way, Toledo. For more information, call 419-244-2674 or visit imaginationstationtoledo.org.
