Opening March 14 the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) will offer the unique chance to explore the intricate biology and physiology of some of the world’s most spectacular creatures in Animal Inside Out, a BODY WORLDS production.
This exhibit, from anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens—inventor of Plastination science and creator of the trailblazing BODY WORLDS exhibitions—will make its U.S. premiere at MSI from March 14 through September 2, 2013. The exhibition showcases more than 100 animal specimens that have been preserved through the process of Plastination.
From goats to giraffes and octopuses to ostriches, guests will see the inner workings of some of the world’s most impressive animals and better understand the evolution of animals and the natural world. Highlights of Animal Inside Out include peering up at a giraffe, witnessing a shark outlined entirely in its dense network of blood vessels and peeking inside a rabbit’s brain.
Animal Inside Out explores:
Skeletal foundations: From tiny insects to full-grown mammals, most animals have a skeleton of some sort, whether it is an internal endoskeleton which humans have or the external exoskeleton of insects and crustaceans.
Muscles, tendons and ligaments: From the large running and leaping muscles of a reindeer to the specialized muscles of a bull’s heart pumping blood and nutrients around the body, Animal Inside Out reveals how most animals have muscles.
Internal circuit of the nervous system: The nervous system is a vast and complex network connecting the brain, the spinal cord and all parts of the body, channeling a constant flow of data and sending out commands. The nerve fibers that carry this vital information can be finer than a human hair and are invisible to the naked eye.
The birds and the bees: After feeding, reproduction is the most essential of all an animal’s activities, and evolution has developed a vast number of different ways for animals to reproduce.
Breathing and eating: The lungs and digestive tracts of animals, such as the reindeer, reveal the intricate detail of some of the major organs in the body, many of the characteristics of which we share with them.
Wildlife conservation and preservation: By learning how similar animals and humans are, guests will be able to gain a new appreciation for the importance of animal welfare.
Animal Inside Out is not included in Museum general admission and will require an additional timed-entry ticket. Tickets will be on sale at msichicago.org on January 23, 2013.
The BODY WORLDS exhibitions were created by Dr. Gunther von Hagens. BODY WORLDS is the culmination of the German scientist and physician’s more than 35-year career in anatomy. More than 36 million people around the world have experienced the exhibitions. For more information visit www.bodyworlds.com.
The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) offers thousands of fun and interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind, world-class experiences to inspire the inventive genius in everyone. Through its Center for the Advancement of Science Education, MSI also aspires to a larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering. Come visit and find your inspiration! MSI is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, and regular hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Museum is supported in part through the generosity of the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, find MSI online at msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414 or (800) GO-TO-MSI outside of the Chicago area.