The top 5 science virtual tours to Mars, the Smithsonian and more — all free

Being a student this year can feel like the worst possible choice due to COVID-19 and not being able to travel and attend classes like we used to just sucks. Alas, life isn’t one of those Etch A Sketch boards you can wipe clean and start all over again, so what can we do instead of feeling low? We can take some pretty cool (trust us) science virtual tours from the comfort of our own home, and still get that immersive learning experience. 

It may not be as exciting as actually going to a museum in person — but you could pack a small suitcase and pretend to travel to the airport to get to your destination if that makes you feel any better. Take an adventure with us to the following science virtual tours:

Access Mars 

 

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Houston, we have a problem. Well, now you don’t, because this science virtual tour is a 3D replica of the Martian surface taken by the rover. This web-based virtual reality experiment is for the people who are into what’s beyond planet Earth’s ozone layer. To infinity, and beyond!

Solar System Scope

Speaking about infinity and beyond, this science virtual tour is guaranteed to awaken the inner astronaut in you. It’s an incredibly accurate solar system tour which allows you to discover the night sky and outer space in real-time. Zoom into each of the planets and read all the interesting facts about the many objects in space. Think Buzz Lightyear vibes. 

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

We know Washington DC is currently a trending topic since Joe Biden is now president-elect. But leaving the politics aside, this science virtual tour is one that should be a must on your bucket list. 

The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington has a great science virtual tour. Source: Saul Loeb/AFP

The Museum of Natural History has 146 million objects for those who can’t get enough of factoids on animals, fungi, and plants. From narrated tours to exhibits — past, current, and permanent — the Smithsonian allows visitors to take self-guided or room-by-room tours of selected exhibitions and areas from their mobiles or desktops. 

Oxford University’s History of Science Museum

The History of Science Museum by the University of Oxford is well-known as the keeper of a leading collection of scientific instruments from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Now with a 3D tour, everyone can visit one of the UK’s most famous museums. 

Fancy a cuppa tea? Make one at home for yourself and explore all the nooks and crannies of this museum, where you’ll be able to learn the story of and see the tools involved in the making of penicilin, the Periodic Table and more.

The National Museum of Computing

Do you miss British culture? We can’t help you there, but what about looking at computers through your computer? This science virtual tour is at the National Museum of Computing in England — home to the world’s largest collection of working historic computers. 

This independent charitable museum could definitely use your support in keeping their museum open during this difficult time. Explore the world of computers and speak to experts on code-breaking machines of WWII for free.