U-M opens MiSo to tours at Botanical Gardens

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 | Source: Concentrate

The past, present and future of solar research at the University of Michigan will be on display tonight at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens.

The past is the Michigan Solar House (MiSo) that U-M students, faculty and volunteers built for the 2005 Solar Decathlon in Washington, D.C. There will be tours given between 5:30 and 7 p.m.

"Our goal is to increase awareness and increase visits," says Alicia Spitznagel, a spokeswoman for the event.

The present is the Shadow Pavilion installation courtesy of Professor Karl Daubmann. The installation utilizes computer-generated architectural forms inspired by botanical models. The clustered paper-thin, reflective aluminum cones provide shade and a vista point for the Sam Graham Trees Trail overlook.

The future will be Profs. Daubmann and Harry Giles talking about what's coming down the pike for solar energy research at the university.

The star of the show is MiSo. The 660-square foot, solar-powered home showcases the future potential of modular and energy efficient housing. More than 150 people built the energy neutral home, meaning it produces as much energy as it uses. It was moved to the Matthaei Botanical Gardens earlier this year.

The reception will be held in the visitors center of the Conservatory of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Road. For information, contact Janice Harvey at jrharvey@umich.edu or (734) 764-1340.

Source: Alicia Spitznagel, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Solar House exhibit
Writer: Jon Zemke