MOSI opens new drones exhibit, exposing kids and adults to the technology

TAMPA, Fla. – As drones become more common across the world, the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) opened a new exhibit designed to expose both kids and adults to the technology. 

“It’s our job to make sure that we are introducing and staying relevant to what’s happening in the world,” MOSI’s Director of Education Janet White said. 

It’s called Flight Club Drone Zone. For four 30-minute sessions each day, guests will be able to fly a drone for a couple of minutes, trying to navigate an enclosed aerial obstacle course. A staff member helps guide guests through the process. 

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“That’s what we want to do at MOSI, take them through the process, so they’re learning as they go,” White said. “They’re doing critical thinking, because they’re having to figure out how to get the drone through the hoops, and they’re problem-solving. They’re using those skills that they can use in everyday life.”

Obviously, children are a big target for the new, permanent exhibit, which was possible thanks to a partnership with Suncoast Credit Union. 

“We’re starting with baby steps at Drone Zone, giving everyone access to it, and then, as they want to add to their knowledge, they can sign up for different programs that we have,” White said.

MOSI staff hope access leads to interests in future careers involving growing technology, but for now, they enjoy watching kids simply being kids. 

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“It is a blast to watch them and see their faces when they have the success of finally going through that hoop,” White said. “You can see the joy on their faces, and that’s what this is all about.”

For more information on the exhibit, click here. 

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