Expolab – Centro Ciência Viva dos Açores
Interactive science centre in Lagoa, on São Miguel island, with exhibitions, laboratories and science activities for schools and families.
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About the museum
Expolab is a Ciência Viva centre located in the town of Lagoa, on São Miguel island, in the Parque Tecnológico da Avenida da Ciência. It was created through a partnership between the Governo Regional dos Açores and the Sociedade Afonso Chaves, with the land provided by the Câmara Municipal de Lagoa. The building belongs to the Sociedade Afonso Chaves, which runs the centre.
The space brings together interactive exhibition areas, laboratories for science workshops and experimental teaching, an auditorium and a technology zone dedicated, for example, to 3D printing, robotics, home automation and augmented and virtual reality.
The exhibitions focus mainly on the Earth and life sciences, with some forays into chemistry and physics, and include an experiment room for younger visitors. The centre receives group visits by booking and individual visitors and, on Saturdays, offers programmes for families.
Highlights
- Interactive exhibitions on biology, geology and physics
- Three laboratories for science workshops
- Technology zone with 3D printing, robotics and virtual reality
- Family programmes on Saturdays
Permanent exhibitions
- Florestas: Refúgios de Biodiversidade – Exhibition on the importance of forests as refuges for biodiversity.
- Ciência a Brincar – Space for interactive science experiments aimed at younger visitors.
- Operated by
- Sociedade Afonso Chaves
Admission & discounts
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator
- Accessible restroom
- Accessible parking
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
Entrance with a doorway of 78 cm or more in width, lifts with visual information and braille buttons, an adapted toilet and reserved parking beside the building; support staff trained to assist people with disabilities (TUR4all report).
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
- Family tours & workshops
- Hands-on stations
On Saturdays the centre offers science and technology programmes for families; the exhibitions include an experiment space for younger children.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
- Accessible parking
Parking reserved for people with reduced mobility beside the building.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| School programs | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | The laboratories offer activities for several school levels, by prior booking. |
