Nysci's mission is to nurture generations of passionate learners, critical thinkers, and active citizens through design make play - an approach to learning and engagement that is deeply rooted in research on STEM learning and guides the creation of learning experiences that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and agency. Nysci's service to the public as a cultural institution that provides creative, playful opportunities to explore science and engineering anchors and inspires ALL nysci's work. The institution has developed innovative products to extend learning far beyond the museum walls, and its extensive network of partnerships deepens and broadens its impact, both locally and around the world.