Unlock the wonders and concerns of the underwater world with “Sous l’océan,” the captivating new exhibition at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie! Launching October 30, 2018, this permanent exhibit is designed to engage, educate, and inspire all visitors about the vast, mysterious, and critical oceans that cover two-thirds of our planet.
Unearthing Ocean Secrets
Set alongside the renowned submarine L’Argonaute, “Sous l’océan” reveals the stories and technologies behind deep-sea exploration. This is your chance to follow in the footsteps of intrepid explorers and brilliant engineers striving to conquer Earth’s last frontier. The exhibition highlights the solutions developed to navigate and study this immense, enigmatic environment, while also celebrating the contributions of women and men who have blazed trails beneath the waves.
A key focus is on the advanced tools and vehicles that make ocean research possible. Viewers can explore how submarines, equipped with the latest in sonar and communication technology, delve into marine abysses where traditional human presence is impossible.
The Sounds of Silence
The exhibition delves into the auditory tapestry of the ocean, where silence is a relative term. In its midnight depths, despite the darkness, sounds articulate the mysteries harbored beneath the waves. Guests are surrounded by the ocean’s acoustic diversity, from the haunting melodies of distant cetaceans to the industrious clatter of crustaceans.
Imagine standing in the exhibition with your eyes closed, enveloped in the uncharted soundscapes of the ocean, experiencing the uncanny resonances of submarines, the majestic groan of shifting ice, or the industrious hums of marine traffic—each sound tells a story of life beneath the waves.
Diving into Ocean Sciences
Through engaging displays, “Sous l’océan” offers a comprehensive overview of the multi-faceted field of oceanography. Every aspect, from physical and chemical processes to marine geology and biology, is explained alongside cutting-edge discoveries. Brilliantly detailed models and visuals go hand in hand with the use of satellite data and automated measurement networks to provide a complete picture of today’s ocean research efforts.
Featured Topics in Ocean Sciences:
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Oceanography | Studies ocean currents, waves, and how these affect climate and weather patterns. |
| Marine Biology | Explores the rich diversity of living organisms in the ocean and how they interact. |
| Ocean Chemistry | Examines the chemical composition of seawater and its effects on marine ecosystems. |
| Marine Geology | Focuses on the ocean floor, from tectonic activity to sedimentary processes. |
Navigating Ocean Challenges
The exhibition brings to light pressing issues related to the ocean, including geopolitical conflicts over maritime routes and resources. Interactive maps and data visualizations lay bare where essential resources like minerals and energy can be found, as well as illustrating zones threatened by rising sea levels and coral erosion.
Visitors can explore the tangled web of globalization’s impact on our seas, from shipping lanes that underpin global trade to the significant infrastructure of underwater communication cables. The exhibition poses probing questions about these issues, encouraging dialogue and reflection on the future of our oceans.
From L’Argonaute to Suffren: Evolution of Submarines
Featuring everything from historic texts to high-tech simulators, this section of the exhibit traces the incredible evolution of submersible technology. From the storied past of L’Argonaute—built for agility and speed during the Cold War—to the state-of-the-art Suffren, a marvel of modern engineering, visitors are invited to get hands-on with models and equipment.
Film exhibits explain the complex technologies behind inertia-based navigation systems and nuclear propulsion. Complementing these are interactive displays that let you step into the commanding role of a submarine pilot, all in the safety of a simulator.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: Cité des sciences et de l’industrie, 30 avenue Corentin-Cariou, 75019 Paris
- Transport: Easily accessible via Metro Porte de la Villette, T3b
- Opening Hours: Open daily except Monday, from 10 am to 6 pm; extending to 7 pm on Sundays
- Ticket Prices:
- Regular Admission: 12€
- Reduced Admission: 9€ for seniors, educators, young adults, large families, and students
- Free Admission: Children under 2, job seekers, beneficiaries of minimum social benefits, and people with disabilities plus one companion
- More Info: For further details, visit cite-sciences.fr or call 01 40 05 80 00
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the depths of our oceans at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie. This is a must-see exhibition for anyone fascinated by the natural world and eager to learn about the challenges and opportunities that lie beneath the waves.
