Offering basic training in lie-detection, cryptography, biometric scanning, computer hacking, and intelligence gathering, the Ontario Science Centre’s new “The Science of Spying” exhibit is a fun, interactive journey through the world of espionage and the culture of surveillance. It combines a virtual training course with a museum of real life gadgets and a gallery of futuristic conecept tools to offer up a glimpse of what spying will be like in the years ahead.

With my Spymaker I.D. card in hand, I am ready to test my skills.

At today’s opening a small army of local six graders swarmed the training area, each equipped with their very own Spymaker identity card to use to swipe into computer terminals and access the networks of the mysterious Osteck Corporation. They learned about disguises and the art of passing on messages in crowded city streets. They tried their hands as unlocking secret codes and hacking into computer networks. They learned how to access closed-circuit camera systems and how to track others, ultimately spying on each other in the process. To change their identities they had their faces and bodies scanned and then acquired special tools, all while uncovering a devious plot by Ostack to harm the world. Their finally challenge was to get past roving security cameras and halls activated with motion-detecting sensors just to access the final terminal , enter in the secret password, and save the day!

The exhibit was designed and developed by “The Science of…” a division of the Science Museum in London, England who contacted members of Britain’s own intelligence agency MI6 for guidance on the principles of spying, one of which is the element of uncertainty. Being a spy means never knowing quite what is happening or how their adversaries might be watching them. The exhibit recreates this for visitors who, start of by spying on others only to later find themselves under watchful eyes.

The interactive course is divided into six areas:

- Recruitment: This is where you get your ID card and hidden message.

- Training: Learn the basic skills

- Technology: Use a facescanner and a Super Computer to uncover the mission

- Mission: Locate the secret base and track down the needed code word.

- Future: Uncover the next generation of spy gadgets

- Escape: Deploy your exit strategy and end the mission without being caught.

The Science of Spying runs from today until September 7, 2009 

 

 

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