Future tech exhibit plugs museum interactivity (photos)

The Tech Museum in San Jose, Calif., this week opened a cutting-edge gallery focused on prototypes relating to the future of museum interactivity.

Prototype tech on display in the museum's Tech Test Zone includes designs from corporations, academic labs, and professional designers.

The exhibit opening was held in conjunction with a conference on interactivity for museum professionals that explored how museums and other public-space designers can use such technologies to enhance visitor learning and experience.

Here, a museum visitor interacts with a thermal camera that captures the long wavelengths of infrared light. Warm areas appear white, yellow, or red, while cool areas appear blur, purple, or black.