The exhibit, CSI: The Experience, immerses guests in hands-on science while leading them through the challenge of solving a crime mystery. The hands-on exhibit brings to life fundamental scientific principles, numerous scientific disciplines, and the most advanced technology and techniques used today by crime scene investigators and forensic scientists. Through hands-on activities with real equipment, as well as multi-media presentations, guests will sample the following science fields and understand their role in cracking crimes:
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DNA identification: understanding the fundamental principles of genetic biology and advances in DNA profiling that have greatly advanced the forensic science field.
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Toxicology: identifying the presence of drugs or poisons in body tissues, fluids and organs.
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Forensic anthropology: examining skeletal remains for forensic purposes.
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Forensic entomology: studying the presence of insects and or insect eggs in dead bodies to help determine the time or location of the death.
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Forensic pathology: looking for trauma or anomalies in the body's systems that explain sickness or death.
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Forensic art: using an understanding of anatomy and physiology to create images.
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Firearm and toolmark identification: using observation skills to match patterns and learning the basic physics behind ballistics.
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Information technology: understanding the use of national databases, cell phones, cameras, e-mails and other digital technologies to track and investigate crimes.
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Latent prints: using chemistry to reveal fingerprints or handprints that are not visible to the naked eye.
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Blood spatter analysis: studying blood patterns to determine movement, speed, direction, location, etc. - all to help identify what took place at the crime scene.
Tools and technologies in the exhibit:
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Video monitors with scenes from CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and real-life scientists talking about their areas of expertise
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Microscopes
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Magnifiers, templates
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Computer databases
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Personal computers with touch-screen technology
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UV light sources
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Cell phone seizure kit
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Chemistry equipment, reagents
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DNA instrument systems
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Ballistics identification systems and bullet trap
About the exhibit:
CSI: The Experience was developed by the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and Bob Weis Design Island Associates with support from CBS Consumer Products, the cast and crew of the television show, and the National Science Foundation. CSI: The Experience is an immersive, interactive forensic science exhibit related to the hit TV series that invites people to use real science to solve hypothetical crimes in an exciting multi-media environment.
