The Exploreum Science Center announces a groundbreaking new partnership with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians in the digital upgrade of its Dome Theater. Working with D3D, a nationally recognized company based in Evanston, Illinois, the Exploreum will make a huge leap from its current state as a film-based theater into a digital laser-based Giant Screen Dome theater.
“We are thrilled to partner with PCI and D3D on this massive upgrade”, said Don Comeaux, Executive Director of the Exploreum.
“PCI’s investment will enable the Exploreum to show, for the first time, the latest digital giant screen films. And, in the very near future, we will be able to show commercial, full-length feature films. We’ll be putting the viewers’ experience in overdrive with greater contrast, clarity, and visually stunning images that are superior to any previous technology. The theater will be an immersive experience unique to the Gulf Coast Region and beyond, and we’re looking forward to this cutting-edge conversion,” said Comeaux.
In addition to a drastically upgraded visual experience, the theater will be getting a near top to bottom overhaul in other areas as well.
A state-of-the-art sound system will be installed during the conversion process delivering enhanced audio equal to that of the new visuals.
Upgraded seating and new flooring will be installed as well as an all new lighting system, resulting in a nearly brand new theater.
This cutting edge technology will enable the Exploreum to greatly expand its various educational and professional programs.
Live video conferencing, dynamic and interactive presentations, and streaming broadcasts from entities such as NASA as well as TED Talks will all be possible with the new configuration.
“The Tribe is deeply committed to furthering innovative educational opportunities for the entire community, and we are proud to be part of this noble endeavor that helps make the wonders of science accessible to everyone,” said PCI Chief Government Relations Officer Robbie McGhee.
D3D Cinema, working in concert with Christie Digital Systems, will be replacing the existing film projection system with a laser-illuminated system.
It will feature ultra-high 6K resolution via a trio of advanced Christie laser projectors, high frame rate capability (up to 120 fps), and outstanding contrast ratios.
The state-of-the-art laser system is capable of delivering up to 150,000 lumens on the dome producing incredibly vivid images with a brilliant expanded dynamic range and color gamut far beyond the capabilities of film-based and xenon-illuminated projection systems. D3D will also upgrade the audio system with a dome-optimized surround-sound speaker array delivering 25,000 watts of power for an incredibly lifelike and immersive aural experience, capable of reproducing the clap of a sonic boom or the whisper of an evening breeze with equal fidelity.
“The Exploreum Science Center has always enjoyed such great success with their Giant Dome Theater, and we’re honored to have been selected to help them usher in the exciting new digital era in Mobile,” said Don Kempf, President of D3D Cinema.
“The product that Christie Dome solution and our team will be deploying there is undoubtedly the highest quality solution on the market, and one that will be able to evolve as future new technologies emerge, allowing the Exploreum to do what science museums do best - showcasing the most advanced technology in the world,” said Kempf.
