Expedition Weltmeere

In the organizer's words:

The world's oceans are considered the origin of all life on earth. They are the largest interconnected ecosystem on our planet and the habitat of an estimated 2 million species. They provide raw materials, energy, food, transportation routes and function as a climate regulator and producer of more than 50% of the oxygen in our atmosphere. And although they cover around 70% of the Earth's surface, we know more about the surfaces of the Moon and Mars than about the oceans, only 5% of whose depths have been explored.

It seems almost paradoxical that today we know more about the surfaces of the Moon and Mars thanabout the oceans.

Our cultural-historical and immersive exhibition not only sheds light on the "superficial" relationship between humans and the sea, but also delves into the mysterious submarine realms. The focus is on the pleasurable exploration and investigation of different facets of the maritime worlds and their transformation processes. We emphasize the beauty of the enigmatic underwater habitats and at the same time point out the threats posed by pollution, noise, overexploitation of marine resources and man-made climate change.

But the world's oceans have also always - at least since the beginning of globalization in the 15th century - been a contested economic area and a lively transfer zone for people, goods and ideas. Finally, the idea of the world's oceans as imaginary spaces that awakened longings, stimulated the imagination, but also fueled fears. In addition to scientific objects, technical and scientific devices tell of today's exploration of the world's oceans, while historical and contemporary artistic positions demonstrate their significance as a source of inspiration and creativity.

Experience the deep sea up close - digital expeditions into unknown worlds

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the oceans - with two spectacular immersive stations that bring you closer to the "oceanic feeling" with striking immediacy. The elevator to the deep sea takes you on a journey from the surface of the sea to the bottom of the Mariana Trench - eleven kilometers into the depths. In a retro-futuristic cabin, inspired by Jules Verne's underwater boat Nautilus, the steel bulkheads open seven times to reveal the mysterious worlds of life in the deep sea: glowing jellyfish, transparent squid and the legendary colossal squid meet you through the thick armored glass - a collective experience that combines amazement and reflection.

The experience becomes even more intense in the diving station on the seabed: thanks to virtual reality technology, you enter a virtual deep-sea habitat and explore life in the darkness of the oceans. The highlight is a virtual dive to the wreck of the HMS Endurance, which lies a good 3,000 meters underwater, at a depth that no human can ever reach - and you are right in the middle of it!

Both installations make the invisible visible and the unimaginable tangible. They show: The deep sea is not inaccessible - it is part of our world, vulnerable and precious. Experience the magic of the oceans like never before!

Price information:

Free admission up to 18 years, with a free ELLAH Card even up to 25 years.