The idea was conceived in 1985 during the planning of the science section of the "Trouver Trieste"exhibition at La Villette, in Paris, in May 1986 - Imaginaire Scientifique presented research conducted in Trieste's various scientific institutes. After appearing in several locations, the exhibition returned to Trieste in 1988 to form the nucleus of an interactive science museum in Italy.

The museum features original display methods and innovative techniques to stimulate learning - the objects in the exhibition can be handled as an aid to understanding natural phenomena and the physical laws that govern them. The interactive displays are accompanied by evocative music to create a unique fusion of scientific material and emotional involvement. 
The fascinating planetarium simulates sunrises and sunsets, constellations and the apparent nightly and seasonal movements of the stars, helping children understand the wonders of stellar motion. 

At the Immaginario Scientifico, science is discovered through museum tours and special activities, such as workshops, thematic demonstrations, meetings, temporary exhibitions, Tinkering activities, science shows and "scientific" birthday parties.

The program dedicated especially to schools is also very interesting: from childhood to secondary school, classes can discover science while having fun through a visit to the museum and the special laboratories just for them.