REVIEW: Discover the Deep at Dynamic Earth

A preview of the new wonders at Dynamic Earth’s “Discover the Deep” is full of promise, and now it’s ready to welcome us aboard, writes Grant Dickie.

Many may remember Dynamic Earth for its iconic iceberg exhibit, which is still standing strong. However, it is now welcoming visitors to a brand new and ambitious exhibition exploring the depths of the planet’s oceans: “Discover the Deep”.

Families – or science-mad individuals like myself – can enjoy wandering through the displays at the beginning of the path, before delving into the deep waters. You will first be introduced to the deep by a short movie and giant tactile globe. However, there is a twist – the continents have been flattened and instead you feel your way through the topography of the hidden depths, underwater canyons, and mountains.

Feel the underwater topography of our planet.

This hands-on approach is an indicator of what is to come. Expect only some reading and a lot more interactivity as you undertake your journey.

You will be introduced to the pioneer of oceanic deep sea research, Sir Charles Wyville Thomson – a fellow Scot – and boat, HMS Challenger. Learn of its journey to expand our understanding of what lies below the water’s surface, see examples of creatures of the deep in innovative sample jars using etching and light, and dive into and explore the waters on an immense six-metre high by 15-metre long interactive projection. A real feat of human ingenuity, the projectors work in this tight space to allow visitors the chance to control a dive into the waters, explore the depths, and discover corals and other creatures that live there, as well as in the waters just off Scotland’s own coast. Who knew that we had our own species of cold water coral?

Take one last look at the coral reefs before stepping into the hull of a modern-day science exploration vessel. Learn about the ways that we explore the deep waters now, while hearing from scientists about their important projects in short films, listening to the sounds of the deep ocean, and even taking control of a submersible research vessel to sample underwater vents. How many samples can you successfully retrieve?

The new exhibition fits seamlessly into Dynamic Earth’s repertoire. Speaking with Dr Hermione Cockburn, scientific director at Dynamic Earth, it is clear how excited the team is to welcome visitors to the exhibition, and I am just as excited to return to see how the visitors enjoy it.

Step into a modern day exploration vessel.

Visit Dynamic Earth after 8 June 2022 and discover the deep for yourself.

Dynamic Earth is open seven days a week. More information at www.dynamicearth.co.uk