Dimitri Burkhard
When it comes to the world's largest railway stations, Grand Central Terminal in New York City undoubtedly ranks as number one with the most platforms: 44 platforms with 67 tracks!
For comparison, Zürich's main station ranks as number six with its 26 tracks (which is pretty incredible given the small size of Switzerland)...
But just this past weekend, Grand Central Terminal has added an extra track with non-stop service to Zürich, Switzerland. Seemingly produced for a Hollywood set, a most realistic subway entrance replica has been set up - baffling even some station security guards! This subway stop is the main focal point of MetroNeXt+ here at the Zürich Meets New York Festival, turning many a head and compelling otherwise busy New Yorkers to take a closer look...
Science and Technology Made in Zürich
As part of this joint interactive exhibit among the University of Zurich, the ETH Zurich, and Switzerland Tourism, MetroNeXt+ has temporarily transformed Vanderbilt Hall into a virtual platform!
Several interactive exhibits caught our eyes: For one, a special iPad application allows visitors to experience augmented reality firsthand. By simply pointing an iPad's camera at different locations in the hall, visitors can unlock many surprising animations inspired by Zürich.
Here is an example of a virtual animation at MetroNeXt+:
Photos from the MetroNext+ exhibit in Vanderbilt hall "Virtuale Rides #ZHNY pic.twitter.com/PoumSAoM3c
— Virtuale Switzerland (@VirtualeSwitzer) May 19, 2014
Meet yours truly with Eva, a virtual rock star scientist! This EU funded project is part of FIcontent where ETH Zürich is involved in developing novel gaming technologies for the future internet.
The various augmented reality experiences were definitively a highlight for us, and we are convinced that they are showcasing the many groundbreaking technologies developed at Zürich's universities.
Large Scale Photographs by Yann Arthus-Bertrand
There are other ways to journey to the heart of Switzerland, too: Switzerland Tourism has commissioned a series of breathtaking panoramic photographs by Yann Arthus-Bertrand. This award winning French photographer is well known for his Earth from Above documentary.
Last summer, the photographer has flown over Switzerland's most iconic landmarks like the Rhine Falls, the Jungfrau or the Matterhorn in order to capture their raw natural beauty. From observing many hurried New Yorkers stop to gaze at the large bird's-eye photographs at MetroNeXt+, we believe that Yann Arthus-Bertrand has succeeded in transporting that beauty from Switzerland to New York City.
Fortunately, you can vie
w more than 120 panoramic images directly on the MySwitzerland website!
More Information
- Zürich Meets New York Events
- Swiss Consulate General New York Blog
Many thanks to our partners who helped to make this trip possible:
Thanks for this article. You really had a nice experience!
Arthur Clay
Hi Arthur! The events as part of “Zürich Meets New York” were well organized, intelectually stimulating and all around fun! I am glad that this article has transported this for you!
Dimitri