The last chance to see the blockbuster exhibition “Our Body: The Universe Within” at the Witte Museum is approaching quick, with the exhibit closing May 26.

This unique exhibit literally goes “under the skin” to reveal the mysteries of the human anatomy through a riveting presentation of actual human specimens. The exhibit features 12 bodies and more than 75 anatomical displays preserved using a method known as polymer impregnation.

The exhibit has been a big success, attracting more than 100,000 visitors to date since opening Jan. 26, and breaking numerous attendance records for the Witte Museum -- including having more than 27,000 visitors during spring break and more than 6,700 visitors on the Tuesday of spring break alone.

The exhibit is a unique opportunity to encounter the intricate design of the human body’s form and function in an up-close, scientific, compelling and dignified display of 18 human bodies and 100 anatomical specimens. The Witte Museum is extending operating hours May 16 to 26 until 8 p.m. to accommodate last-minute visitors.

In an effort to fulfill the desire to learn more about our very existence, more than 22 million people have been compelled to visit this or similar human body exhibits in major cities worldwide – from London to Beijing to New York. The goal of this exhibit is for exhibit-goers to leave with a deeper understanding of the body's complicated systems and a stronger appreciation of the uniqueness of each of our individual bodies.

There is a $13 surcharge in addition to museum general admission for “Our Body: The Universe Within.” Tickets may also be purchased at www.wittemuseum.org. For more information, call 357-1910. It takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes to tour the exhibit, and photography is prohibited in the gallery. A catalog of images from the exhibit is available for purchase in the Witte Museum Store.