The nightscape of the 'Water Cube'

(BEIJING, Jan. 28)-- On January 28, the National Aquatics Center (NAC), one the new landmarks of Beijing, was successfully delivered. Under the sunshine, its crystal bubbles are quite attractive.

The outstanding appearance is not the only highlight of the "Water Cube." In this venue, the temperature of the water is kept at 27 degrees, which is comfortable for athletes. The temperature in the spectator stands is around 18 to 20 degree, and the humidity is at 50% to 60%. The environment is ideal for fans to enjoy the games.

Moreover, the space between the air-pillow walls of the Water Cube is completely sealed off, creating a layer of insulation. In the summer, a meter-high vent works to regulate the NAC's temperature indoors through heat exchange, by drawing indoor heat out of and cooler outdoor air into the venue. In the winter the vent is sealed off, and the warm indoor temperatures remain constant.

To address potential problems with heat from direct sunlight, the membrane layers between the two layers of air pillows have different degrees of density to control the amount of sunlight that is let into the NAC. This works in part also to reduce the amount of heat brought about by the sun and helps keep the indoor temperatures under control.