Climate adaptation that works: Our thermal drone survey of experimenta Square reveals a significant cooling effect.

In 2024, we transformed the previously largely sealed square surrounding the experimenta Science Center with a clear focus on climate adaptation. The aim was to improve comfort on hot summer days while contributing to more resilient urban development.
A key element of the design was the extensive unsealing of paved surfaces. This was complemented by a climate-resilient grove of future-proof tree species, biodiverse planting areas and wildflower meadows, as well as a misting system that provides additional evaporative cooling.
This summer, we examined how effective these measures are under real summer conditions. Using a thermal imaging drone, we surveyed the square and compared surface temperatures across different areas.
Thermal Imaging Makes the Impact Visible
The results show clear differences: In the climate-resilient grove, measured surface temperatures were up to 19.2 °C lower than on the unshaded areas of the square. With the misting system activated, temperature differences at the investigated measurement points reached as much as 26.4 °C.
Greenery, Shade and Evaporative Cooling Make a Difference
The thermal images clearly illustrate the impact that climate-adapted open space design can have on summer heat build-up. In particular, vegetation and shade, combined with the additional evaporative cooling provided by the misting system, significantly reduce surface temperatures.
Experimenta Square demonstrates how a formerly highly sealed open space can be transformed into a climate-adapted urban environment with a high level of amenity. The combination of unsealing, climate-resilient planting, shade and targeted evaporative cooling creates both design and ecological value while also providing important insights for the climate-resilient development of our cities.
Our reality check confirms: Climate-adapted open space design is not only visible and tangible – its impact can also be measured.