Highlights
The massive dome screen can be raised and lowered (the first convertible dome IMAX® theater in the United States) to reveal a large stage and a flat screen that can be used with the Hughes-JVC projector, one of the most powerful digital video systems in existence. The Omnitheater uses one of the most advanced theater control systems available today called SONICS DTAC. This computerized system integrates all components of each show (film, sound, video, entrance music, theater lighting and even dome movement) into one smooth automated program. Theater seats made in Spain (Figueras seating company) offer comfort and plenty of leg room. Visitors with special needs are fully accommodated with a centrally located wheelchair deck and special enhancements available for sight- or hearing-impaired guests.
History
In 1978, the Science Museum of Minnesota introduced the magic of giant screen theaters to America. It was the second theater of this type ever built in the world. The Science Museum continues to be a leader in the production of educational films for this medium, and in 1999 the museum re-established itself as the front runner in this format with the first convertible dome theater in the United States. On December 11, 1999, the state-of-the-art Omnitheater opened in a brand new museum facility perched on the banks of the Mississippi River.
Details and Special Features
In simple terms, the convertible dome moves over visitors’ heads like a convertible roof on a car. Massive swinging arms pivot the dome into position. The dome screen is nearly nine stories from top to bottom, and weighs 160 metric tons. The flat screen is 70 feet high by 90 feet wide (21.3 meters by 27.4 meters).
The convertible dome presents numerous possibilities for uses of the theater beyond IMAX® presentations. Once the dome is retracted, it reveals a large stage area for live presentations. It also unveils the Science Museum’s state-of-the-art video capabilities. The museum’s Hughes-JVC video system is the most powerful projector (12,000 lumens) of its kind in North America. This system allows the Science Museum of Minnesota to present a variety of video and computer-generated images with the impact of a large screen presentation.
During every type of show, the audio system’s crystal-clear digital sound resonates perfectly from six immense loudspeaker arrangements. There are four speaker clusters mounted to the dome structure, as well as two clusters to the flat screen and two clusters mounted to the ceiling at the rear of the theater. The two clusters on the ceiling are used for both types of presentations. The Science Museum’s new Omnitheater uses Digital Video Disk (DVD) technology and 14,400-watt, six channel sound audio power to immerse audiences in sound that is better than the systems at commercial theaters. The new convertible dome Omnitheater is as much a marvel for its technology and versatility as it is for its breathtaking film presentations.
