Biosphere (Biosphère, musée de l’environnement)

Montreal’s Biosphere is a museum dedicated to raising environment awareness and water ecosystems. Located in Parc Jean-Drapeau, on Île Sainte-Hélène, the Biosphere is considered to be the world’s largest geodesic dome. It was created for the World Fair Expo ’67 in the former pavilion of the United States. The Biosphere is the only museum in North America that is dedicated to water. The main focus of the Biosphere is the St. Lawrence River and the Great Lakes.

Exhibitions at the Biosphere

Various exhibitions are displayed in the Biosphere. The exhibits held at the Biosphere tend to be quite interactive and entertaining. Push a button to learn about the cycle of water from cloud to rain to river and ocean. Many special effects are used to create a perfect learning atmosphere. These immersive exhibits are designed to explain environmental issues to children. Some of the topics that these exhibits cover include global warming, climate change, water conservation and so on.

Fun Facts about Montreal’s Biosphere

Here are some fascinating facts about Montreal’s Biosphere:

• The geodesic dome of the biosphere is not quite a sphere. It actually consists of two structures: an outer layer made up of triangles and an inner layer made up of small hexagons.
• The dome is 206 feet (62.8 meters) high and covers 1,700,000 square feet (189,724 cubic meters)
• The frame is made of steel tubes welded to steel joints
• In keeping with the water theme, the museum is configured like a ship, with a hold, a bridge and crow’s nest

The Biosphere is often confused with the Biodome. If you would like to find out about Montreal’s Biodome, click here.

Images of the Biosphere

The Montreal Biosphere (stock photo)

Montreal’s Biosphere (stock photo)

The Biosphere (stock photo)

The Biosphere at daytime (unknown)