Visitors to the recreated "Historic Zeiss Workshop from 1866" can check out what day-to-day life was like at an optical-mechanical workshop in the middle of the 19th century. The tour also includes exciting information about the three main figures associated with this workshop – Zeiss, Abbe and Schott – and the city of Jena.

We discuss the production of microscopes and the underlying operating principles while also teaching visitors about how this optical instrument developed over time. How did earlier microscopes work? What could you see with them? Different microscopes provide a unique look at the microcosm.

When were the first telescopes made and who could use them? How did these enable new discoveries? On this tour, visitors learn about the different designs for refracting and reflecting telescopes and how these evolved over time. Students can also try out several of the instruments for themselves.

Which device makes it possible to stand on your head without noticing it? What is the difference between analog and digital photography? What do carrier pigeons and cameras have in common? Students will find out the answers to these and other questions during the tour.

The fascinating objects on display bring the 700-year history of eyeglasses to life. What is a reading stone? Why did Napoleon's brother wear scissor spectacles? When did people realize that the ears could help improve vision? Original historic glasses round off this fascinating history.

Almost everyone has reached for the stars when visiting a planetarium. But what historical development made this technology possible? How has the technology evolved over the years? Students will learn about armillary spheres and tellurians and get a behind-the-scenes look at modern dome projection technology.

Our eyes and brain cause each of us to perceive the world differently. Students first learn about the structure and function of the eye, and then take part in an interactive event with optical illusions found in daily life. They will be amazed how quickly we can be deceived and might think twice before ever trusting their eyes again.

What are holograms and how are they created? This tour provides a review and demonstration of basic physics. Students can then check out the different types of holograms.