View source for Ontario Science Centre

{{Short description|Science museum in Toronto, Ontario}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2024}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=January 2020}}
{{multiple issues|
{{COI|date=October 2014}}
{{More citations needed|date=August 2010}}
{{peacock|date=August 2017}}
{{primary sources|date=August 2017}}
}}
{{Infobox museum
| name            = Ontario Science Centre
| logo            = Ontario Science Centre Logo.svg
| logo_alt        = 
| logo_caption    = 
| image           = DSC00043 - Ontario Science Centre (36405896753).jpg
| alt             = 
| caption         = Ontario Science Centre in 2017
| map_type        = Canada Toronto
| map_relief      = 
| map_size        = 
| map_caption     = Location of the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto
| map_dot_label   = 
| coordinates     = {{Coord|43|43|00|N|79|20|18|W|region:CA-ON_type:landmark|display=inline,title}}
| former_name     = Centennial Museum of Science and Technology
| established     = {{Start date and age|1969|9|26}}
| dissolved       = <!-- The OSC did NOT cease to exist when the Don Mills building closed. It will continue to operate virtually until a new location opens. -->
| location        = 770 Don Mills Road<br />[[Toronto]], [[Ontario]]<br />M3C 1T3
| type            = [[Science centre]]
| accreditation   = [[Association of Science and Technology Centers]] (ASTC)
| key_holdings    = 
| collections     = 
| collection_size = 
| visitors        = 900,225<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Uploads/AboutUs/documents/2017-2018.annualreport.en.pdf|title=Performance Target Discussions|work=Annual Report 2017–2018|publisher=Ontario Science Centre|year=2018|access-date=August 3, 2019}}</ref>
| founder         = 
| executive_director = 
| deputy_director = 
| leader_type     = 
| leader          = 
| director        = 
| president       = 
| ceo             = Paul Kortenaar
| chairperson     = [[John Carmichael (Canadian politician)|John Carmichael]]
| curator         = 
| architect       = [[Raymond Moriyama]]
| historian       = 
| owner           = [[Government of Ontario]]
| employees       = 
| publictransit   = 
| parking         = Paid parking on site
| website         = {{URL|www.ontariosciencecentre.ca}}
| network         = 
}}

The '''Ontario Science Centre''' ('''OSC'''; originally the '''Centennial Museum of Science and Technology''') is a [[science museum]] and organization based in [[Toronto]], Ontario, Canada. The institution was proposed in 1967 as part of Toronto’s Canadian Centennial projects, and its original location opened to the public in September 1969. After decades of use, the original Don Mills Road site closed in 2024. The museum currently runs a small display space in [[Sherway Gardens]] mall, awaiting the creation of a permanent location.

The original site was located near the [[Don Valley Parkway]] about {{convert|11|km|mi|1}} northeast of [[Downtown Toronto|downtown]] on [[Don Mills Road]] in the former city of [[North York]]. The museum was built on the side of a [[ravine]] formed by a branch of the [[Don River (Ontario)|Don River]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Centennial Centre of Science and Technology (Ontario Science Centre) - Public Appointments Secretariat |url=https://www.pas.gov.on.ca/Home/Agency/383 |access-date=2025-07-11 |website=www.pas.gov.on.ca}}</ref> It comprised a series of buildings at different levels on the steep hill, connected by long [[Escalator|escalators]]. Large windows provided views of the surrounding forest. Exhibits included a simulation of the [[Lunar Excursion Module|LEM]] landing on the Moon, a [[tic-tac-toe]] game played against a computer, and a simulated [[hot cell]]. The museum also had an outreach program which included touring vans that visited schools around the province.

By the late 1980s, many of the original exhibits were still in use. In 1996 a redesigned entranceway was opened, which contained an [[Omnimax]] theatre. Beginning in 2001, a redesign started, funded by a mix of public and private capital, which was completed in 2007.

In 2023, Ontario Premier [[Doug Ford]] announced a government plan to replace the Ontario Science Centre with a smaller institution on the [[Toronto waterfront]].<ref name="Bozikovic">{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-fords-plan-to-move-the-ontario-science-centre-to-ontario-place-ruins/|title=Doug Ford's plan to move the Ontario Science Centre to Ontario Place ruins them both|last=Bozikovic|first=Alex|newspaper=[[The Globe and Mail]]|date=19 April 2023|access-date=21 April 2023}}</ref><ref name="Walton">{{cite web |last1=Walton |first1=Chris |title=Raymond Moriyama's Ontario Science Centre could be demolished |url=https://www.archpaper.com/2023/05/raymond-moriyamas-ontario-science-centre-could-be-demolished-under-provinces-redevelopment-plans/ |website=The Architect’s Newspaper |access-date=2023-08-17 |date=3 May 2023}}</ref> The following year in 2024, the government announced that the Don Mills location would close permanently after an engineering report identified a high risk of roof collapse.<ref name="cbc-closure"/> These two announcements drew public opposition and scepticism.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Takagi |first1=Andy |last2=Colley |first2=Mark |date=June 26, 2024 |title=Ontario Science Centre: What the report that prompted the surprise shutdown actually says |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/ontario-science-centre-what-the-report-that-prompted-the-surprise-shutdown-actually-says/article_4542093e-33d5-11ef-9a63-c74c7cdbf294.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240626205703/https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/ontario-science-centre-what-the-report-that-prompted-the-surprise-shutdown-actually-says/article_4542093e-33d5-11ef-9a63-c74c7cdbf294.html |archive-date=June 26, 2024 |access-date=June 26, 2024 |website=[[The Toronto Star]]}}</ref><ref name="Jones2024"/>

==History==
[[File:Fountains at Ontario Science Centre 1992.jpg|thumb|Original fountains of the Centre in 1992. Replaced in 2007 by Teluscape plaza]]

===Construction and opening===
Planning for the Science Centre started in 1961 during Toronto's expansion in the late 1950s and 1960s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.archives.gov.on.ca/en/explore/online/centennial/ontario_science_centre.aspx|title=Ontario Science Centre- Centennial Ontario|website=www.archives.gov.on.ca|access-date=2020-02-10}}</ref> In August 1964, Premier of Ontario [[John Robarts]] announced the creation of the Centennial Centre of Science and Technology as a Centennial Project.<ref name="Bradburn">{{cite web|url=https://www.tvo.org/article/please-touch-everything-inside-the-opening-of-the-ontario-science-centre|title='Please touch everything': Inside the opening of the Ontario Science Centre|last=Bradburn|first=Jammie|publisher=[[TVO]]|date=27 September 2019|access-date=21 April 2023}}</ref> Toronto [[architect]] [[Raymond Moriyama]] was hired to design the site. Construction started in 1966 with plans to open the Centennial Centre of Science and Technology as part of the [[Canadian Centennial]] celebrations in 1967.<ref name="Archives: Tourism in Ontario">{{Cite web |url=http://www.archives.gov.on.ca/en/explore/online/tourism/government_expansion.aspx |title=Archives of Ontario - Tourism in Ontario: Government and the Tourist Industry - Expansion and Diversification |website=www.archives.gov.on.ca|access-date=2020-02-10}}</ref>

However, construction was not completed in 1967, and the Science Centre did not open to the public until two years later, on September 26, 1969.<ref name="40 years of innovation">{{cite web |url=http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/history/default.asp |title=40 Years of Innovation |publisher=Ontario Science Centre |access-date=August 18, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412162157/http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/history/default.asp |archive-date=April 12, 2010 }}</ref> The official opening was held on the morning of September 27 and attended by [[Very important person|VIPs]], followed by an opening to 30,000 invited guests in the early afternoon.<ref name="Bradburn" /> It opened to the general public on September 28, drawing 9,000 visitors.<ref name="Bradburn" /> Its [[advertising slogan]] at launch was "Come see what would happen if [[Albert Einstein]] and [[Walt Disney]] had gotten together."<ref name="Bradburn" />

The buildings and design were part of a wider change in [[Architecture of Canada|Canadian architecture]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/centennial-buildings-50th-anniversary-1.3654283|title=50 years on, centennial buildings still important symbols|last=Sanderson|first=Blair|website=CBC|date=Jun 29, 2016<!-- 12:42 PM ET {{!-->}} Last Updated: June 29, 2016</ref> and remain an example of the [[Brutalist architecture|brutalist]] style.<ref name="Walton"/>

When it first opened, the Science Centre was known for its hands-on approach to science, along with San Francisco's [[Exploratorium]] and the [[Michigan Science Center]] in [[Detroit]]. The majority of the exhibits at the Science Centre were interactive, while others were live demonstrations such as metalworking. The Communications room contained a number of computerized displays, including a [[tic-tac-toe]] game, run on a [[PDP-11]] [[minicomputer]].

By 1974, it hosted around 250,000 students on [[field trip]]s annually.<ref name=Omand>{{cite journal|journal=[[Museum International]]|title=The Ontario Science Centre, Toronto|last=Omand|first=Douglas N.|volume=26|issue=2|publisher=[[Taylor & Francis]]|pages=76–85|date=1974|doi=10.1111/j.1468-0033.1974.tb01821.x}}</ref>

=== Operations from 1990 to 2022 ===
In 1990, the Ontario Science Centre announced a contract with [[Oman]] to design a children's museum. The Ontario Science Centre had agreed to [[Boycotts of Israel|boycott Israeli]] goods and services while under contract.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/514448381.html?dids=514448381:514448381&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Nov+15%2C+1990&author=Laura+Eggertson%2C+The+Canadian+Press&pub=The+Record&desc=Science+Centre%27s+Oman+contract+boycotted+Israel&pqatl=google |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120131155214/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/514448381.html?dids=514448381:514448381&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Nov+15%2C+1990&author=Laura+Eggertson%2C+The+Canadian+Press&pub=The+Record&desc=Science+Centre%27s+Oman+contract+boycotted+Israel&pqatl=google |url-status= dead |archive-date= January 31, 2012 |title= Science Centre's Oman contract boycotted Israel |publisher= Kitchener - Waterloo Record | first=Laura |last=Eggertson |date=November 15, 1990}}</ref> The Ontario Science Centre later amended the contract to specify that all goods sold to Oman would be produced in North America.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/472366901.html?dids=472366901:472366901&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Nov+21%2C+1990&author=Dale+Brazao+Toronto+Star&pub=Toronto+Star&desc=Cohon+rejects+blame+for+science+centre+deal&pqatl=google |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120131160844/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/472366901.html?dids=472366901:472366901&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Nov+21%2C+1990&author=Dale+Brazao+Toronto+Star&pub=Toronto+Star&desc=Cohon+rejects+blame+for+science+centre+deal&pqatl=google |url-status= dead |archive-date= January 31, 2012 |title= Cohon rejects blame for science centre deal |publisher= Toronto Star | date=November 21, 1990}}</ref> The centre's Director, General Mark Abbott, was later fired for signing the original contract.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/472363921.html?dids=472363921:472363921&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Nov+20%2C+1990&author=Pat+Brennan+and+Tracey+Tyler+Toronto+Star&pub=Toronto+Star&desc=The+Ontario+Science+Centre%27s+fired+director-general+says+he+should+have+been+sacked+in+July+if+a+controversial+contract+he+signed+was+wrong.&pqatl=google |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120131154958/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/472363921.html?dids=472363921:472363921&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Nov+20%2C+1990&author=Pat+Brennan+and+Tracey+Tyler+Toronto+Star&pub=Toronto+Star&desc=The+Ontario+Science+Centre%27s+fired+director-general+says+he+should+have+been+sacked+in+July+if+a+controversial+contract+he+signed+was+wrong.&pqatl=google |url-status= dead |archive-date= January 31, 2012 |title= The Ontario Science Centre's fired director-general says he should have been sacked in July if a controversial contract he signed was wrong. |publisher= Toronto Star | first1=Pat |last1=Brennan |date=November 20, 1990}}</ref>

In 2001, the Centre began a project called "Agents of Change," which focused on innovation and renewed about 85% of the Centre's public space, including the creation of seven new experience areas. The Centre received $47.5 million in contributions from the government of Ontario, private sector companies, and individuals. The "Agents of Change" transformation was completed in 2007, culminating in the opening of the Weston Family Innovation Centre and the Teluscape plaza.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Uploads/AboutUs/documents/2010-2011.annualreport.en.pdf |title=Crossing Boundaries 2010/2011 |publisher=Ontario Science Centre |access-date=May 31, 2014}}</ref>

In response to the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario]], the Science Centre received $500,000 from the [[Government of Canada]] to promote [[COVID-19 vaccine]] uptake among children and their families.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[[Public Health Agency of Canada]] |date=2022-06-08 |title=Immunization Partnership Fund |url=https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization-vaccine-priorities/immunization-partnership-fund.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912070019/https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization-vaccine-priorities/immunization-partnership-fund.html |archive-date=2022-09-12 |access-date=2022-09-12 |website=[[Government of Canada]]}}</ref>

=== Facility decay, replacement plans, and closure ===
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Bridge 2023.jpg|thumb|Due to structural decay, the pedestrian bridge was closed by 2023]]
Due to structural decay, which required the closing of the pedestrian bridge leading to the exhibits, a [[shuttle bus]] line ran from 2023 until the Don Mills site's closure, bringing people from the main entrance to Level 6, the site of the main exhibit area at the bottom of a ravine.<ref name="Map">{{cite web |title=Map of the Centre |url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/plan-your-visit/map-of-the-centre |website=Ontario Science Centre |publisher=Ontario Science Centre, an agency of the Government of Ontario |access-date=2023-08-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Visitor Tips {{!}} Ontario Science Centre |url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/plan-your-visit/visitor-tips?node_id=14816 |access-date=2023-07-05 |website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> The detour used [[Mercedes-Benz|Mercedes]] and [[Ford Motor Company|Ford]] custom-built [[minibus|minibuses]]. No plans to repair or replace the bridge had been announced by the time of the site’s closure.

On April 18, 2023, [[Premier of Ontario|Premier]] [[Doug Ford]] announced the provincial government's plan to relocate the Science Centre to a new facility on Toronto's waterfront, specifically the grounds of [[Ontario Place]].<ref name="Bozikovic"/><ref name="Walton" /><ref name="Morrell">{{cite news |last1=Morrell |first1=Patrick |title=Here's the latest on the province's plan to move the Science Centre to Ontario Place |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-place-science-centre-latest-1.6817983 |access-date=2023-08-17 |work=CBC News |date=Apr 22, 2023}}</ref> This announcement was met with widespread public backlash due to concerns about potential downsizing and exhibit losses.<ref name="Bozikovic" /><ref name="Walton" /><ref name="Micallef">{{cite news |last1=Micallef |first1=Shawn |date=23 April 2023 |title=Doug Ford's party built the Ontario Science Centre. That makes his plan to demolish it even more puzzling |url=https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/doug-ford-s-party-built-the-ontario-science-centre-that-makes-his-plan-to-demolish/article_2d479e26-8599-55fd-8627-861d4d7a2614.html |access-date=2023-08-17 |work=Toronto Star |language=en}}</ref> Both the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario and the Toronto Society of Architects condemned the relocation plans,<ref name="Lam2023">{{cite web |last1=Lam |first1=Elsa |date=24 April 2023 |title=ACO and TSA advocate to save Ontario Science Centre |url=https://www.canadianarchitect.com/aco-and-tsa-advocate-to-save-ontario-science-centre/#:~:text=Despite%20this%2C%20the%20building%20has,the%20museum%20via%20shuttle%20bus. |access-date=2023-08-17 |website=Canadian Architect |publisher=iQ Business Media Inc}}</ref> while the grassroots group Save Ontario's Science Centre organized rallies and campaigns to reverse the government's decision.<ref name="Donahue">{{cite web |last1=Donahue |first1=Ryan |date=31 January 2024 |title=Local communities push back against Science Centre move at Riverdale rally |url=https://torontoobserver.ca/2024/01/31/science-centre-rally/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=Toronto Observer |publisher=Centennial College}}</ref> [[Toronto City Council]] also sought to keep the Science Centre at its original location.<ref name="Jeffords">{{cite news |last1=Jeffords |first1=Shawn |date=Jul 23, 2023 |title=Toronto's looking at how to keep Ontario Science Centre where it is — and could run its own |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-science-centre-toronto-study-1.6914151 |access-date=2023-08-17 |work=CBC News}}</ref> 

In December 2023, the [[Auditor General of Ontario]] concluded that the government's decision "was not fully informed and based on preliminary and incomplete costing information, and had proceeded without full consultation from key stakeholders or a clear plan for the existing site".<ref>{{cite web |title=Value-for-Money Audit: Science Centres |url=https://www.auditor.on.ca/en/content/annualreports/arreports/en23/AR_sciencecentres_en23.pdf |publisher=Office of the Auditor General of Ontario |access-date=2024-03-11 |date=6 December 2023}}</ref>

On June 21, 2024, the [[Ministry of Infrastructure (Ontario)|Ministry of Infrastructure]] announced the immediate and permanent closure of the Don Mills location, citing an engineering report revealing water damage affecting 2-6% of the building's roofs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Third Party Reports |url=https://www.infrastructureontario.ca/en/news-and-media/third-party-reports/ |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=Infrastructure Ontario |language=en}}</ref> The report estimated that repairs would cost at least $22 million and take two years to complete.<ref name="torstar-closure">{{Cite web |first2=Rob|last2=Ferguson|first1=Robert|last1=Benzie|date=2024-06-21 |title=Ford government closing Ontario Science Centre today after report found roof in danger of collapsing |url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/provincial/ford-government-closing-ontario-science-centre-today-after-report-found-roof-in-danger-of-collapsing/article_3e7a8442-2fd8-11ef-9c00-03276c11fe83.html |access-date=2024-06-21 |website=Toronto Star |language=en}}</ref> Safety concerns about the roof material in question, [[reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete]] (RAAC),<ref name="Lam2024">{{cite web |last1=Lam |first1=Elsa |title=Ontario Science Centre doesn't require full closure: A close reading of the engineers' report |url=https://www.canadianarchitect.com/ontario-science-centre-doesnt-require-full-closure-a-close-reading-of-the-engineers-report/ |website=Canadian Architect |publisher=iQ Business Media Inc |access-date=2024-06-26 |date=2024-06-24}}</ref> had caused the temporary or permanent [[2023 United Kingdom reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete crisis|closure of hundreds of buildings in the United Kingdom in 2023]].<ref name="torstar-closure" /> While roughly 400 public buildings in Ontario contain RAAC, the Science Centre is currently the only one in the province closed due to these concerns.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Crawley |first1=Mike |title=Hundreds of buildings with Science Centre roof panels remain open |url=https://www.cbc.ca/1.7245973 |website=CBC News |access-date=26 June 2024}}</ref>

The [[Premiership of Doug Ford|Ford government]] expedited its plan to relocate the Science Centre to the waterfront, targeting a 2028 opening, with a temporary location slated for January 2026.<ref name="cbc-closure">{{cite news|last=Bowden|first=Olivia|work=[[CBC News|CBCNews.ca]]|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-science-centre-closing-roof-1.7242810|title=Ontario Science Centre to close immediately: province|accessdate= June 21, 2024 |date=June 21, 2024}}</ref><ref name="cp-rfp">{{cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/science-centre-smaller-rfp-1.7247183|title=Ontario seeks much smaller home for temporary science centre|first=Allison|last=Jones|agency=[[The Canadian Press]]|work=CBCNews.ca|date=June 26, 2024|access-date=July 3, 2024}}</ref> This drew further criticism, including from Moriyama Teshima Architects, the firm founded by the Science Centre's original architect.<ref name="Jones2024">{{cite web|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-science-centre-rally-1.7244064|title=Rally held as community angered by Ontario Science Centre closure|first=Ryan Patrick|last=Jones|work=[[CBC News|CBCNews.ca]]|date=June 23, 2024|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> Private donors, including [[Geoffrey Hinton]], offered up to $1 million to fund repairs for the existing facility,<ref>{{cite web |last=Takagi |first=Andy |date=June 24, 2024 |title=This family is offering $1 million to help fix the Ontario Science Centre. Will Doug Ford consider it? |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/this-family-is-offering-1-million-to-help-fix-the-ontario-science-centre-will-doug/article_c56713ae-323e-11ef-9349-633f79a612ac.html |access-date=June 28, 2024 |work=[[Toronto Star]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=June 25, 2024 |title=Wealthy Torontonians are offering more than a million dollars to keep Ontario Science Centre open |url=https://nationalpost.com/news/ontario-science-centre-donations |access-date=June 28, 2024 |work=[[National Post]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Woodward |first=Jon |date=June 27, 2024 |title='Godfather' of AI pledges $1 million to fix Ontario Science Centre |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/article/godfather-of-ai-pledges-1-million-to-fix-ontario-science-centre/ |access-date=June 28, 2024 |work=[[CFTO-DT|CTVNews.ca Toronto]]}}</ref> but the province did not respond to these offers.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lang |first=Ethan |date=July 2, 2024 |title=Ontario won't say if it will take offers to fix science centre |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/science-centre-repairs-board-trustees-1.7251940 |access-date=July 2, 2024 |work=CBCNews.ca}}</ref>

=== Temporary locations and original site uncertainty ===
By October 31, 2024, most of the exhibits had been moved to storage facilities in Northern Toronto and [[Guelph]], while the animals and plants had been transferred to the [[Toronto Zoo]] and [[The Village at Black Creek]]. Temporary pop-up exhibits have since opened at [[Sherway Gardens]] and Toronto's [[Harbourfront Centre]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Casey |first=Liam |date=Nov 14, 2024 |title=Ontario Science Centre workers say goodbye as repairs continue |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/workers-say-goodbye-ontario-science-centre-1.7383016 |access-date=Nov 17, 2024 |website=CBC News}}</ref> 

In December 2024, the Auditor General of Ontario questioned the financial prudence of the relocation. Contrary to the Ford government's business plan analysis, which projected $257 million in savings over 50 years, the AG found that relocation costs have already exceeded the anticipated savings, reaching approximately $400 million.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=D'Mello |first1=Colin |last2=Callan |first2=Isaac |date=3 December 2024 |title=Cost of moving Ontario Science Centre skyrockets before construction even starts: AG |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10899041/ontario-science-centre-relocation-cost/ |access-date=4 December 2024 |work=[[Global News]]}}</ref>

[[File:Ontario Science Centre May 25, 2025.jpg|thumb|Ontario Science Centre as of May 25, 2025, with signage removed from the building and the digital sign taken down. The area around it has been undergoing development for the upcoming [[Ontario Line]]]]
In May 2025, ''Canadian Architect'' magazine reported that draft versions of the structural engineering report by Rimkus which were relied on by the Ontario government to close the centre had originally recommended routine repairs and not closure, up until May 2024.<ref name="Lam2025">{{Cite news |last=Lam |first=Elsa |date=May 16, 2025 |title=New documents reinforce that Science Centre closure was not supported by engineers |url=https://www.canadianarchitect.com/draft-engineering-reports-didnt-suggest-closure-of-ontario-science-centre-new-documents-reveal/ |access-date=May 17, 2025 |work=Canadian Architect}}</ref> This revelation was added to earlier reporting from ''[[Global News]]'' that [[Infrastructure Ontario]] had been in frequent communication with Rimkus in the leadup to the public release of the report in June 2024, and led the magazine to conclude that the language describing the consequences of not doing the routine repair that was later used to justify the closure had been inserted after political pressure.<ref name="Lam2025"/><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Callan |first1=Isaac |last2=D'Mello |first2=Colin |date=November 21, 2024 |title=Infrastructure Ontario 'worked with' engineering firm ahead of science centre closure report |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10879674/ontario-science-centre-closure-plan-breakdown/ |access-date=May 17, 2025 |work=[[Global News]]}}</ref>

{{Asof|August 2025}}, more than a year after the closure, the plans for a replacement facility have been pushed back to 2029 without any solid plans for a temporary location. Employees have also reported issues regarding rodent problems at the Science Centre's exhibit storage building and new mailing address, working from home concerns, and staff demoralization from the closure's ongoing effects.<ref>{{Cite web |title=‘The biggest betrayal’: A year on, staff grieve Ontario Science Centre’s snap closure {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/11252077/ont-science-centre/ |access-date=2025-08-12 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> {{Asof|2025}}, the area around the Science Centre is being developed for the upcoming [[Ontario Line]], which will pass nearby in an overhead track. [[Don Valley station|The station for the line]] and for [[Line 5 Eglinton]] that were originally to be known as "Science Centre station" have been renamed to "Don Valley Station". Security presence, as well as construction and repairs on the roof of the building have also been noticed{{clarify|date=November 2025}}, all still with no clear plan from the province for what will become of the building. 

==Grounds==
=== Building ===
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Procter & Gamble Great Hall 2023.jpg|thumb|Procter & Gamble Great Hall]]
[[File:Ontario Science Centre OMNIMAX Theatre Entrance 2023.jpg|thumb|OMNIMAX Theatre Entrance]]
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Aerial view 2023.jpg|thumb|Aerial view of the building]]
Designed in the early 1960s, the original buildings are in the [[Brutalist architecture|Brutalist architectural]] style. The building complex is made up of three main buildings connected by a series of [[bridge]]s and [[escalator]]s set in a parkland of over {{convert|100|acre|order=flip}}.<ref name="Omand"/>{{rp|78}} The buildings were constructed while avoiding removal or damage to the mature trees in the area, so that "the buildings seem to fit naturally into their environment".<ref name="Omand" />{{rp|78}} They follow the natural contours of the [[Don River (Ontario)|Don River]] ravine, into which the Centre descends. Ontario's only [[IMAX Dome]] theatre opened in 1996.<ref name="autogenerated1"/>

The Great Hall is an event venue at the Ontario Science Centre and is home to ''Cloud'', a massive, computer-controlled [[kinetic sculpture]] by Toronto installation artist [[David Rokeby]], which consists of an array of blue and transparent squares that rotate in various ways to simulate the three states of matter: solid, liquid and gas.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Tour/Art-Installations|title=Art installations|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120814093959/http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Tour/Art-Installations/|archive-date=14 August 2012|url-status=dead|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref>

For most of the time since opening in 1969, the Science Centre has hosted a demonstration [[amateur radio]] station.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sanderson |first1=Neil |title=Amateur radio station VE3OSC Toronto |url=http://radio1nz.com/ve3osc/ |access-date=January 20, 2017}}</ref> Formerly located in the Hall of Space, the station was later relocated to Level 4 of the Centre, next to the elevator.<ref>{{cite web |date=January 19, 2017 |title=Ontario Science Centre: Volunteer Demos |url=http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Tour/Volunteer-Demonstrations/ |access-date=January 19, 2017}}</ref> The station has the [[call sign]] "VE3OSC",<ref>{{cite web |date=January 19, 2017 |title=VE3OSC - Callsign Lookup by QRZ.COM |url=https://www.qrz.com/db/VE3OSC |access-date=January 19, 2017}}</ref> and licensed amateur radio operators volunteer there daily from 10 am to 3 pm.

<gallery mode=packed>
Ontario Science Centre Level 6 Forest Lane 2023.jpg|Buildings connected by [[escalator]]
Ontario Science Centre Front Entrance lobby 2023.jpg|Front entrance lobby
Ontario Science Centre Valley Restaurant 2023.jpg|Valley Restaurant with large windows
Ontario Science Centre Level 3 Amateur Radio 2023.jpg|Amateur radio in level 3
Ontario Science Centre event space.jpg|The Great Hall enclosed ''Cloud'', a [[kinetic sculpture]] by [[David Rokeby]]; this installation has been removed.{{cn|date=April 2024}}
</gallery>

===Plaza===
[[File:DSC00043 - Ontario Science Centre (36405896753).jpg|thumb|Teluscape, an outdoor plaza next to the main entrance with interactive exhibits]]
''Lotic Meander'' by [[Stacy Levy]] is an outdoor installation in polished and blasted granite and cast glass set into the solar terrace of the Ontario Science Centre. The work depicts the patterns of water as it moves through a stream bed.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://stacylevy.com/installations/lotic_meander.php |title=Stacy Levy • Lotic Meander<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=October 28, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140817061731/http://stacylevy.com/installations/lotic_meander.php |archive-date=August 17, 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In 2007, the Ontario Science Centre unveiled the Teluscape Exploration Plaza, providing several interactive exhibits adjacent to the science centre's exterior main entrance.

====FUNtain Aquatic Play====
[[File:Hydraulophone at Ontario Science Centre imgp4940rp.jpg|thumb|World's largest outdoor hydraulophone, which is publicly accessible 24 hours-a-day]]
As originally built, the Science Centre had a large fountain area directly in front of the entranceway, located to create a traffic [[roundabout]]. The fountain virtually screened views of the building from the street, and provided cooling for the building.<ref name=Omand />{{rp|78}} The original water fountain has been rejuvenated to provide a more welcoming and accessible entrance to the Science Centre.  The new plaza, named "Teluscape", was designed by Reich + Petch Architects and EDA Collaborative. It opened to the public on September 20, 2006, and is accessible 24 hours a day.

The new fountain is a [[hydraulophone]], designed by installation artist [[Steve Mann (inventor)|Steve Mann]]. It is a [[Hydraulic action|hydraulic-action]] [[pipe organ]] which can be played by anyone walking into the space. Blocking the flow of any of the 57 water jets in the fountain redirects the water to a corresponding organ pipe, where it makes a loud sound as the water is forced out through the speaking mouth of the pipe. The lowest 12 notes in each pipe division of the organ are visible as pipes arranged in a circle. The North Division consists of stopped ''hydrapasons'' (similar to [[Flue pipe#Diapasons|diapasons]] but running on water rather than air), whereas the South Division pipes are open at both ends (sound emerges from the ends rather than from a mouth as with the North pipes).  The North organ console consists of 12 water jets, whereas the south console consists of 45 water jets.

The organ is supplied with water from three Pentair pumps, supplying water at a rate of {{convert|130|gal/min}}, each by way of a {{convert|3|in|cm}} diameter water line. Air is supplied from three Ingersol Rand four-cylinder air compressors, each is equipped with a {{convert|25|hp}} motor. Since the instrument runs on both air and water, it may be regarded as a hybrid hydraulophone and pneumatophone, but because it is played by blocking water jets rather than air holes, it is principally a hydraulophone.

The fountain must be shut down and drained to avoid freezing damage during the cold season. On November 21, 2007, the aquatic play facility was temporarily switched from water operation to air operation, effectively becoming perhaps one of the first pneumatic-play facilities, where visitors can play among a fountain of air jets. In this mode of operation, the fountain becomes a [[wind instrument]]. The hydraulophone may not be operational during the winter months.

{{As of|2023}}, the hydraulophone has not been operational, due to algae buildup, leaks, and pump problems.

==Exhibitions==
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 6 Hot Zone 2023.jpg|thumb|Ontario Science Centre Level 6 Hot Zone]]
The Science Centre has hosted many travelling exhibits since its opening. In 1982, the exhibition ''China: 7,000 Years of Discovery'' broke all attendance records and attracted more than 1.5 million visitors.<ref name=autogenerated1>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/WhoWeAre/MajorMoments|title=Major Moments|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200310201827/https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/WhoWeAre/MajorMoments/|archive-date=10 March 2020|url-status=dead|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref>

In 2003, the ''Strange Matter'' exhibition opened,<ref>{{cite journal |title=Fifteen years on the road— Strange Matter continues its journey |journal=MRS Bulletin |date=June 2018 |volume=43 |issue=6 |pages=458–459 |doi=10.1557/mrs.2018.137 |bibcode=2018MRSBu..43..458. |s2cid=243936260 |quote=Strange Matter opened to the public at the OSC in Toronto, Canada, on June 28, 2003.|doi-access=free }}</ref> and the ''Body Worlds 2'' exhibition attracted almost half a million visitors over five months when it came to the Centre in 2005.<ref name=autogenerated1 /> The exhibition ''Facing Mars'' ran in 2008.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Rentals/FacingMars|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120822013043/https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Rentals/FacingMars/|url-status=dead|title=Facing Mars|archivedate=22 August 2012|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> The Centre hosted ''[[Harry Potter: The Exhibition]]'', a collection of props from the film series in 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/282// |title=Harry Potter™: The Exhibition to cast a spell on the Ontario Science Centre |publisher=Ontario Science Centre |access-date=May 31, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028160239/http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/282// |archive-date=October 28, 2014 }}</ref> ''Leonardo da Vinci's Workshop'' (2011) featured physical models of da Vinci's inventions, built from drawings in his Codices. It also included interactive touch-screen digital reproductions of his Codices, the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/334|title=Leonardo da Vinci's Workshop: The Exhibition opens at the Ontario Science Centre|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028155716/http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/334/|archive-date=28 October 2014|url-status=dead|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> ''Circus: The Exhibition'' ran in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/342|title='The Greatest Show on Earth' at the Ontario Science Centre|archive-date=28 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028161028/http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/342/|url-status=dead|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> ''Game On 2.0'', a video game history exhibition, ran March 9 to September 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/355/ |title=Ontario Science Centre Hosts World's Biggest Video Game Celebration with Canadian Premiere of GAME ON 2.0 |publisher=Ontario Science Centre |access-date=May 31, 2014}}</ref>

In June 2014, the Centre welcomed ''The Science of Rock 'N' Roll'', which explores how advances in science and technology have revolutionized music. The exhibition features eight areas that comprise different interactive components, historical artifacts, informational walls, documentary videos and more.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/ScienceNow/IdeaGallery/InKnowlegeWeTrust |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140723013043/https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Media/Details/383 |url-status=dead |title=This summer #ScienceROCKS at the Ontario Science Centre with The Science of Rock 'N' Roll |archivedate=23 July 2014 |website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> The exhibition was followed by ''In Knowledge We Trust'' (October 4 to December 7, 2014), which explored the role trust plays in making us willing to share or use the knowledge we receive.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/ScienceNow/IdeaGallery/InKnowlegeWeTrust |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028172736/http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/ScienceNow/IdeaGallery/InKnowlegeWeTrust/|url-status=dead|title=In Knowledge We Trust|archivedate=28 October 2014|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref>

During summer 2015, the Centre hosted ''MythBusters: The Explosive Exhibition'', based on the popular television series ''[[MythBusters]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/MythBusters|title=MythBusters: The Explosive Exhibition|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315203310/https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/MythBusters|archive-date=15 March 2015|url-status=dead|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> On June 4, 2016, the Centre hosted a one-day exhibit promoting the [[Nintendo 3DS]] game ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'', which also featured activities pertaining to the [[Kirby (series)|''Kirby'' video game series]] and a visit by a [[Costumed performer|performer]] in a full [[Kirby (character)|Kirby]] costume.<ref>{{Cite web|author=Hunter, Paul|website=Best Buy|url=https://blog.bestbuy.ca/video-games/kirby-came-to-toronto-to-celebrate-his-new-game-kirby-planet-robobot|title = Kirby came to Toronto to celebrate his new game, Kirby: Planet Robobot|date = June 9, 2016}}</ref> In 2017, to celebrate the [[150th anniversary of Canada]], the Centre opened the exhibition ''Canada 150: Discovery Way'', featuring Canadian stories behind transformational inventions and innovations.

===Permanent galleries and exhibits===
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 6 TELUS Rain Forest 2023.jpg|thumb|upright|Simulated [[rainforest]]]]
The science centre has several hundred interactive and passive permanent exhibits, featuring [[geology]], the science of [[nature]] (in the west wing), [[astronomy|astronomical]] science, how to play [[music]] and [[technology]] in the south wing, [[human body|human anatomy]], [[communication]] and [[bias]], and some miscellaneous artifacts of science.

====''A Question of Truth''====
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 5 A Question of Truth 2023.jpg|thumb|upright|Level 5 A Question of Truth]]
''A Question of Truth'' is an exhibit that explores the methodologies, biases, and beliefs of scientific research setup in 2000. The exhibit provides visitors an opportunity to test controversial theories.<ref name=perm>{{cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/permanentexhibits/|title=Permanent Exhibit Halls|year=2019|publisher=Ontario Science Centre|access-date=September 29, 2019}}</ref>

====AstraZeneca Human Edge====
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 6 The AstraZeneca Human Edge 2023.jpg|thumb|upright|Level 6 AstraZeneca Human Edge]]
The AstraZeneca Human Edge replaced the original [[human anatomy]] gallery, opened in December 2013 with sponsorship from [[AstraZeneca]]. In addition to detailing anatomy, the exhibit explores the possibilities of the human body with activities to simulate the experiences of adventure-seekers, elite athletes, and extreme-sports enthusiasts. There are more than 80 exhibits in the hall, which were all developed and built by the Science Centre's staff with input from more than 120 neuroscience, physiology, bio-mechanics and sports medicine experts.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/human|title=The AstraZeneca Human Edge|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202035744/http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/human/|archive-date=2 December 2013|url-status=dead|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> The exhibit also features a [[climbing wall]].<ref name=perm/>

====Cohon Family Nature Escape====
The Cohon Family Nature Escape is an outdoor exhibit, situated within the Don River valley to the rear of the science centre. The exhibit features a giant [[Baltimore oriole]] nest, concrete wall canvas for [[moss graffiti]], and a [[playground slide]] made from a fallen 125-year-old [[Pinus strobus|eastern white pine]].<ref name=perm/>

====Forest Lane====
Forest Lane houses a number of trees and tree trunks from across Canada. The exhibit includes a 464-year-old [[Douglas fir]], with markings on its [[Dendrochronology|growth rings]] denoting notable world events during the tree's lifetime.<ref name=perm/>

====KidSpark====
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 4 KidSpark 2023.jpg|thumb|upright|Level 4 KidSpark]]
KidSpark is a designated space for children eight and under to explore and learn through play. The exhibition was opened in 2003.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Tour/KidSpark|title=ActivIdée|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120801022613/https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Tour/KidSpark|archive-date=1 August 2012|url-status=dead|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref> The exhibition also has a [[rolling ball machine]] built by [[George Rhoads]], and a music studio.<ref name=perm/>

====Living Earth====
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 6 The Bruce Poon Tip Living Earth Hall 2023.jpg|thumb|upright|The Bruce Poon Tip Living Earth Hall]]
The Living Earth hosts simulated environments around the world, including [[rainforest]]s, [[coral reef]]s, and caves, including live animals. It was opened in 1993.

====Science Arcade====
The Science Arcade is amongst the oldest exhibits at the science centre, having been a permanent fixture in the building since its opening in 1969. The Science Arcade houses a number of "arcade-styled" games.<ref name=perm/>

====Space Hall and the Planetarium====
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 4 Space 2023.jpg|thumb|upright|Level 4 Space Hall]]
<!-- [[File:A rock from outer space at Ontario Science Centre.jpg|thumb|Rocks from [[outer space]] on display at the Space Hall]]  -->
The Space Hall was refurbished in the late 2000s and features [[Shergottite|meteorites from Mars]] and one of the few [[Moon rock]]s on public display in Canada. The Ontario Science Centre also holds Toronto's only operating public [[planetarium]], since [[McLaughlin Planetarium]] was closed in 1995.

====Weston Family Innovation Centre====
[[File:Ontario Science Centre Level 6 Weston Family Innovation Centre 2023.jpg|thumb|upright|Weston Family Innovation Centre]]
The [[Galen Weston|Weston]] Family Innovation Centre is an exhibit designed to encourage experimentation, and features exhibits that allow visitors to prototype a new type of shoe, and to test their aviation abilities.<ref name=perm/> The Weston Family Innovation Centre houses ''Pipe Dreams'' by Bruce Shapiro, a bubble art installation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Tour/Project-Art|title=Art around the Centre|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120801014924/https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Tour/Project-Art|archive-date=1 August 2012|url-status=|website=Ontario Science Centre}}</ref>

====Gallery====
<gallery mode=packed>
Ontario Science Centre Level 6 Rock Paper Science Hall 2023.jpg |Rock Paper Science Hall (Level 6)
Ontario Science Centre Level 6 The Living Earth 2023.jpg|The Living Earth (Level 6)
OSC 10 - Mapaches 05 (14072486317).jpg|A [[raccoon]] at the Cohon Family Nature Escape. The outdoor exhibit is located behind the science centre, within the [[Don River (Ontario)|Don Valley]].
ShergottiteFromMorocco-OntarioScienceCentre-June21-08.png|[[Shergottite]], a Martian meteorite
</gallery>

==Science School==
The Ontario Science Centre Science School (OSCSS) offers grade 12 University Preparation courses in [[Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics|STEM]] subjects: physics, biology, chemistry, calculus, and advanced functions. All students also complete an interdisciplinary studies credit in science communication while enrolled with the OSCSS. The credits are issued by either the [[Toronto District School Board]] or the [[Toronto Catholic District School Board]], which also fund the program so it is available at no cost to students from anywhere in Ontario. While at the Science Centre, students earn practicum hours through volunteering and interacting with visitors.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/oscschool/default.asp |title=Ontario Science Centre: Science School |publisher=Ontariosciencecentre.ca |access-date=October 2, 2013}}</ref>

== Governance ==
As a [[Crown corporations of Canada| Crown agency]] of the [[Government of Ontario]], the Ontario Science Centre is overseen by [[trustee|trustees]] appointed by the [[Lieutenant Governor of Ontario|Lieutenant Governor in Council]], who selects<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ontario.ca/orders-in-council/oc-11882016|website=www.ontario.ca|access-date=2020-02-10|title=Order in Council 1188/2016 }}</ref> not fewer than sixteen and not more than twenty-six trustees, and designates one of them as chair and another as vice-chair.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pas.gov.on.ca/Home/Agency/383|title=Centennial Centre Of Science And Technology (Ontario Science Centre) - Public Appointments Secretariat|website=www.pas.gov.on.ca|access-date=2020-02-10}}</ref>  Meetings are held four times a year, and trustees serve for a term not exceeding three years but may be reappointed for one or more terms.

==Affiliations==
The Ontario Science Centre is affiliated with the [[Canadian Museums Association]] (CMA), [[Canadian Heritage Information Network]] (CHIN), and [[Virtual Museum of Canada]]. The Ontario Science Centre is a member of the international [[Association of Science-Technology Centers]] (ASTC).

==Cultural references==
Ontario Science Centre was used by [[David Cronenberg]] as a location for his 1970 film ''[[Crimes of the Future (1970 film)|Crimes of the Future]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0065591/locations?ref_=tt_dt_dt.|title = Crimes of the Future (1970) - IMDb|website = [[IMDb]]}}</ref>

==Media==
The Ontario Science Centre was featured on the ''[[Rick Mercer Report]]'' in 2016.<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/AJyBw7RwuIo Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20200229001738/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJyBw7RwuIo Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJyBw7RwuIo| title = Rick at the Ontario Science Centre | website=[[YouTube]]| date = March 23, 2016 }}{{cbignore}}</ref> In his [[CBC Television|CBC]] [[news satire]] program, [[Rick Mercer]] visited numerous scientists' exhibits, took part in a wildlife conservation show, and partook in a psychological fear study during a workshop there.

The Grand Hall of the centre was used as an airport terminal in episode 5 of the miniseries ''[[Station Eleven (miniseries)|Station Eleven]].''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-03 |title=Every Ontario location that shows up in Station Eleven |url=https://torontolife.com/culture/every-ontario-location-that-shows-up-in-station-eleven/ |access-date=2025-05-29 |website=Toronto Life |language=en}}</ref>The creative team of the series expressed their desire for the building to be saved in the aftermath of its closure.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mutrie |first=Eric |date=2024-07-03 |title=The Ontario Science Centre Played an Airport on "Station Eleven." The Show's Creative Team Wants It Saved |url=https://www.azuremagazine.com/article/ontario-science-centre-station-eleven-severn-city-airport/ |access-date=2025-05-29 |website=Azure Magazine}}</ref>

The controversy surrounding the closure and politics behind it would be portrayed in a May 2025 episode of ''[[Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent]]'', with mention of the closure of a science centre called ''"The Toronto Centre of Science."''<ref>{{Cite tweet |user = SaveOSC | author=Save OSC |date=May 12, 2025 |title=Ripped from the headlines, the closure of the Toronto Centre for Science |number=1922107754832859475}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[List of science centers]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Ontario Science Centre}}
*{{official website|ontariosciencecentre.ca}}
*[http://wearcam.org/osc/opening/ Opening of Teluscape, 2006 Sept. 20th, including audiovisual recording of the water pipe organ]
*[http://wearcam.org/oscfuntain/lesson/ How to play in/on the Science Centre's South fountain]
*[http://www.archives.gov.on.ca/en/explore/online/centennial/ontario_science_centre.aspx "Ontario Science Centre", part of ''Centennial Ontario''], online exhibit on Archives of Ontario website

{{Toronto landmarks}}
{{Museums and galleries in Toronto}}
{{ONGovDept}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Brutalist architecture in Canada]]
[[Category:Canadian Centennial]]
[[Category:Crown corporations of Ontario]]
[[Category:Museums in Toronto]]
[[Category:North York]]
[[Category:Science museums in Canada]]
[[Category:Raymond Moriyama buildings]]
[[Category:Museums established in 1969]]
[[Category:Science and technology in Toronto]]
[[Category:Association of Science-Technology Centers member institutions]]
[[Category:Amateur radio]]
[[Category:1969 establishments in Ontario]]