FORT WAYNE, IN (June 22, 2023) – Science Central unveiled a new version of an existing exhibit, Catenary Arch, on Thursday, June 22.
Catenary Arch consists of 20 large, numbered blocks. When carefully stacked in adjacent towers, the blocks meet in the middle to form a catenary arch, which is among the strongest architectural forms. Such arches are so strong because they redistribute the vertical force of gravity into compression forces that press along the arch’s curve, which keeps the blocks in place.
Science Central’s new Catenary Arch blocks replace a previous set, which had reached its end of life.
Martin S. Fisher, Science Central’s executive director, says Catenary Arch has long been one of the center’s most popular exhibits.
“Every day we’re open, families and groups come through and attempt to complete the Catenary Arch challenge,” says Fisher. “It’s such a fun team-building test. And when completed, it showcases one of the most unique structural forms.”
Catenary Arch is located on Science Central’s Top Level. The center unveiled the exhibit with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
