Computer History Museum
Mountain View, Calif.
https://www.computerhistory.org
ADMISSION: Free (donations welcome)
ENGINEERING JUDGES: Sue Kayton and Myron Kayton
JUNIOR JUROR: Daniel, age 18
This museum is home to some very historic whole and partial computer systems, including portions of the massive ENIAC computer, one of the world's first digital electronic computers; an 1889 Hollerith census tabulator; and a guidance computer that steered Apollo spacecraft to the moon's surface. The intended audience is middle-school age and older. Our judges were very impressed by the "incredibly knowledgeable detailed explanations from the docents," thinking "Wow! We've sure come a long way!" The junior juror's reaction: "Wow! That's what a computer used to look like?"
Canada Science and Technology Museum
Ottawa
https://www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca
ADMISSION: Adults: US $5; students/seniors: $4; children (4-14): $2.50; children (under 4): free; special rates for groups and families
ENGINEERING JUDGES: Damitha Ranaweera and Ravindra Kuruneru
JUNIOR JUROR: Amanda, age 9
Exhibits here focus on the broad history, principles, and applications of science and technology. The facility also has a planetarium and offers rides on a restored 1913 train. Our judges declared this museum to be a "very good place to learn fundamentals of science and Canada's contribution to technology." There are also many fun hands-on exhibits for kids, including those at the space exhibit, which was the highlight for the junior juror and featured many artifacts from Canada's space program.
�By Janet M. Six