HARTFORD, Conn. -- The Connecticut Science Center’s opening is just months away, and membership applications are already being taken.

The center is signing people up for membership cards now because they're hoping to get the momentum going for their spring 2009 launch. When they do open, center officials said, they plan on inspiring future wetlands researchers and engineers.

“It's 143 feet all the way from the floor to the magic carpet roof,” said Aaron Wartner, of the Science Center.

One must use his or her imagination to imagine what the finished product will look like, but Wartner said imagination is what the center is built on.

“And as you walk in, you'll see the grand staircase walking up to our main lobby area,” said Wartner.

The center will include four labs that are free for students to get their hands dirty with, like testing water from the Connecticut River.

“This is where science really comes alive, and in our four educational labs, that's where there will be educators,” said Wartner.

A few floors up, he said, pieces will be shipped in from all over to complete 10 galleries.

“This is the Forces in Motion exhibit where kids will have the opportunity to race magnetic levitation cars,” Wartner said.

In all, he said, there will be over 150 exhibits at the center, including a Channel 3 Eyewitness news weather studio.

The cost of a season’s pass to the Connecticut Science Center is $35 for an individual or $120 for a family of four. For a premier membership, the cost starts at $75.Those who sign up before the end of November will receive three additional months for free. Those who sign up in December or January will receive an additional two months for free.

For a list of the added benefits of a membership or to sign up, call 860-727-0457 or visit the Connecticut Science Center Web site.