Kamin Science Center has put Pittsburgh’s newest indoor racetrack into high gear with Science of Speed, a permanent motorsports exhibit that combines kart racing, simulators and STEM education.
The 21,000-square-foot attraction takes over the former SportsWorks building on the North Shore. Its centerpiece is an 800-foot, three-level electric kart track with hairpin turns, elevation changes and karts that can reach up to 40 mph, depending on the rider. Each six-minute race can cover roughly 10 to 14 laps.
But Science of Speed is built to explain what powers the rush. Visitors can use a Wave Italy Formula One full-motion simulator — described as the only one of its kind in western Pennsylvania — along with other racing simulators. Interactive displays
examine vehicle design, aerodynamics and engine technology, while real racing hardware brings those lessons off the screen.
On display are a 1959 Ol’ Yaller race car, a Ducati racing motorcycle and an exploded Audi R8 engine. The exhibit also features a racing suit worn by motorcycle champion Marc Márquez.
Science of Speed operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. as an add-on to Science Center admission. Thursday through Saturday evenings, the space shifts to an adults-only experience with kart races, simulators, food and drinks at The Pit Stop lounge.
This article by Gabby Sartori was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kamin Science Center puts Pittsburgh’s newest indoor racetrack in gear
