June 2024
Dive into Ocean Education at WonderWorks Orlando: Celebrating World Ocean Day
Not only is the month of June recognized as Ocean Month, but World Ocean Day is a global celebration held annually on June 8th that’s dedicated to honoring and protecting the ocean. At WonderWorks, we believe in the power of ocean education to inspire curiosity, conservation, and an appreciation for the wonders of the sea. Join us as we dive into the depths of ocean exploration, highlighting our Marine Biologist exhibit, Shark Sense exhibit, and some fascinating ocean fun facts.
Step into the shoes of a marine biologist at one of WonderWorks’ newest exhibits, where you can immerse yourself in the world of ocean research and conservation. Learn more about what marine biologists do, how to become one, and the vital role they play in the world of STEM. Discover the important work of marine biologists in studying and protecting these fragile ecosystems through educational boards and videos, and try your hand at the interactive elements of the exhibit that bring the research to life. WonderWorks teamed up with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and SeaWorld to create this interactive, educational display.
Dare to venture into the depths of the ocean with WonderWorks’ Shark Sense exhibit, where you can come face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most feared predators. This virtual reality exhibit provides an immersive, multisensory, interactive, and educational journey through an underwater world that teaches visitors about sharks’ senses. Test your own “shark sense” with an exhibit that challenges your knowledge and perception of these incredible animals.
Did you know that the ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface? Or that it contains over 80% of the world’s biodiversity? Dive deeper into the ocean with these fascinating fun facts:
- The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on Earth, stretching over 2,300 kilometers (1,400+ miles) off the coast of Australia.
- The deepest part of the ocean, the Mariana Trench, reaches depths of over 10,900 meters (6+ miles)—that’s deeper than the height of Mount Everest!
- Ocean currents play a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate, transporting heat and nutrients around the globe.
- Despite covering only 0.1% of the ocean floor, coral reefs support more than 25% of all marine life.
As we celebrate World Ocean Day on June 8th and Ocean Month throughout the rest of June, let’s remember the importance of ocean education and conservation. At WonderWorks, we’re dedicated to inspiring future generations of ocean stewards through interactive exhibits, hands-on experiences, and a deep appreciation for the wonders of the sea. Join us in exploring the mysteries of the ocean and protecting this precious resource for generations to come!