Visitors to Science North can now experience what it feels like to weigh less on other planetary bodies with the launch of three new interactive “Gravity Chairs” on the science centre’s fourth floor.
Developed in partnership with Cambrian College, the custom Gravity Chairs allow visitors to physically experience the difference in gravity forces between Earth, Mars, and the Moon.
Using a rope and pulley system, participants pull themselves upward while seated, simulating how much lighter they would feel on other planetary bodies.
Each chair represents a different gravitational environment:
Earth (1:1) – Experience the full pull of Earth’s gravity.
Mars (1:3) – Feel roughly one-third lighter than on Earth.
Moon (1:6) – Experience just one-sixth of Earth’s gravity, creating an almost weightless sensation.
A built-in motor ensures a smooth and safe descent after each lift, making the experience accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages.
The Gravity Chairs were designed, tested, and fabricated by students and staff at Cambrian R&D, the applied research division of Cambrian College.
The collaboration allowed Cambrian students to apply their engineering knowledge and skills while showcasing their work in Northern Ontario’s largest tourist attraction.
“This project is a great example of what can happen when education, innovation, and community partnerships come together,” said Ashley Larose, CEO of Science North. “The Gravity Chairs give visitors a fun, physical way to understand planetary gravity while showcasing the incredible talent and creativity found right here in Northern Ontario.”
“This project was such a great way to expand the scope of the applied research partnerships and initiatives we do at Cambrian R&D,” said Kristine Morrissey, president of Cambrian College. “What a terrific experience for our students and staff who worked on this, who can feel that sense of pride every time a visitor to Science North tries one of these chairs. Thank you, Science North, for the opportunity to contribute to this wonderful new attraction.”
The exhibit also connects to the excitement surrounding Artemis II, the mission that sent astronauts around the Moon.
The four-person crew included Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who became the first Canadian to orbit the Moon and travel further into space than any human before. Although Artemis II did not land on the lunar surface, the mission tested the new Orion spacecraft and marks a major step forward in human exploration of deep space.
With the new Gravity Chairs, visitors can experience a small taste of that journey and discover how different the universe can feel beyond Earth.
The Gravity Chairs are now open to visitors in Space Place on the fourth floor of Science North and the exhibit is included in general admission to the science centre.