The oceans are the largest habitat on earth. They occupy around 71 percent of the earth's surface. However, their dark depths are largely unknown. A virtual dive in a research submarine provides a fascinating insight into this world. First squid swim past the submarine, followed by plankton crabs called krill, which live at depths of up to 200 metres. They are the main foodstuff of many whales. At a depth of around 600 metres passengers inside the submarine witness a small "firework" display: countless micro-organisms giving off as many sparks as they can in an attempt to attract partners or ward off enemies. Slowly but surely the submarine approaches its actual target: 2,500 metres down and 300 degrees hot, the hot springs called the "Black Smokers". Black smokers look like mini-volcanoes in the water and are created by cracks in the seabed. Strange or simply beautiful?

How does a river change a landscape? What force does water have? Water represents one of the main forces that shape the earth's surface. A 12 metres long and 80 centimetres wide multi-level water channel allows visitors to see what takes place in a river: There are fast currents and quiet stretches, and stones are transported and deposited elsewhere. You can also build a dam and see which way the water flows as a result. Which type of stone is likely to be washed away quicker by the water: a small, round pebble or a large, rectangular stone? Find out for yourself!