COSI Launches Fall Leaf Science and New Exhibits

The Columbus museum introduces seasonal plant science demonstrations and a new exhibition for young visitors.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Botany

Bold vector editorial illustration of a glass beaker with colorful pigment strips, representing scientific plant research. — The Center of Science and Industry in Columbus is launching new autumn-themed exhibits, featuring interactive biological demonstrations on plant pigment chromatography. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you plan to visit a local science museum to see new seasonal exhibits?

COSI in Columbus is debuting new fall-themed programming, including a hands-on experiment that explores the science of changing leaf colors. The museum also launched a new exhibition based on the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse series.

Why it matters

Educational programming at museums helps bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world observation. These seasonal exhibits provide visitors with interactive opportunities to engage with biological concepts like chromatography.

The chromatography experiment identifies specific plant pigments by extracting colors hidden within leaves. This laboratory technique uses solvent separation to isolate compounds for visual study.

The players

COSI

COSI is a science museum located in Columbus, Ohio, that provides interactive educational experiences for the public.

The details

Visitors at COSI can participate in scientific demonstrations that explain why leaves change color during autumn. Additionally, the museum has opened a new Mickey Mouse Clubhouse exhibition tailored for younger guests to explore.

October 2026: COSI began featuring new fall science experiments and exhibits.

The Big Picture

The leaf color experiment expands upon the experiential learning model established by the COSI After Dark recurring event series. This programming marks a move toward seasonal, curriculum-aligned educational displays for museum patrons.

Families visiting the museum can use these experiments to better understand natural processes occurring in their own backyards during the autumn months. The interactive displays offer a tangible way for students to visualize chemistry through plant biology.

The takeaway

Understanding the chemistry behind changing autumn leaves can turn a walk through a park into a practical science lesson. Families are encouraged to observe leaf colors in their local neighborhoods to identify the pigments discussed during the exhibit.