Orlando Science Center Has Star Power! The Return of Planetarium Shows!
The all-new Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities will premiere on Monday, June 1 at Orlando Science Center, unveiling a completely transformed immersive theater experience with stunning 8K laser projection, 30,000 watts of surround sound, a seamless NanoSeam screen, expanded seating and upgraded amenities to thrill, amaze and delight audiences.
For nearly three decades, this domed theater had been a cornerstone of the Orlando Science Center experience, welcoming nearly four million guests for giant screen films as one of the last museum theaters in the U.S. still showing analog film. Now, after a top-to-bottom transformation to the latest technology, this iconic venue begins a bold new chapter as the Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities.
“Orlando Science Center is a home for bold experiences that inspire curiosity and wonder, “said JoAnn Newman, OSC’s President and CEO. “The Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities is a step forward in how we present storytelling that educates and inspires contemporary audiences. This environment will transport guests from the bottom of the ocean to the edge of the galaxy, creating unforgettable moments for all ages.”
The newly reimagined space now features eight state-of-the-art Christie Griffyn projectors delivering stunning 8K laser imagery that is brighter, sharper and more immersive than ever before. The theater has also been physically redesigned, including the removal of the former central projection structure to improve sightlines and expand seating capacity to 315 guests. New oversized seats ensure every guest enjoys an exceptional view of a pristine NanoSeam screen.
A nearly seamless visual surface is created by 419 individual panels providing maximum clarity. A powerful 7.1 surround sound system delivers more than 30,000 watts of audio to elevate the viewing experience. And the experience begins before you even enter the theater. A newly redesigned lobby features a dramatic LED wall and large-scale projection surfaces, surrounding guests with motion, light and energy. With automated vending offering popcorn, candy, and drinks, every detail has been designed to involve the visitor.
This project was made possible through support from the Unlock Science Campaign, including generous contributions from Dr. Phillips Charities, Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs, Bert W. Martin Foundation and The Magruder Foundation. Their investments are propelling Orlando Science Center into the future while also helping them return to their roots as Central Florida’s premier planetarium destination. From 1972 to 1984, Orlando Science Center was known as the John Young Museum and Planetarium and throughout its early history was known for planetarium shows.
“Dr. Phillips Charities is dedicated to the education and enrichment of our community and proud to further our legacy of support with this amazing venue. We are excited to partner with Orlando Science Center on such an ambitious project,” said Ken Robinson, President and CEO of Dr. Phillips Charities. “We are grateful to usher in its extraordinary next phase. The Dome will be a dynamic destination for wonder and discovery for generations of curious minds.”
The Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities will feature a robust schedule of planetarium shows, giant screen films, full dome educational presentations and musical laser light shows. It premieres with an original live planetarium experience, facilitated by OSC’s expert presenters, which explores the skies above Orlando. In addition to the constellations, planets, and astronomical phenomena in our local sky, audiences will travel to the brink of the universe and back. A live presenter is able engage the audience in a way that makes no two shows the same.