Second-Largest Planetarium In U.S. To Open At MOSI In Tampa

TAMPA, FL — The Museum of Science & Industry in Tampa plans to open the second-largest planetarium in the country.

MOSI’s new Digital Dome Theatre, powered by “10 huge, cutting-edge digital Christie projectors” offering “new 8K technology … (that) is sharper, brighter and more immersive than the old film technology that last operated inside the dome in 2017” should open early next year, the museum said in a news release.

The project will replace the 10,000-square-foot screen inside the dome, which was completed in September, with the 10 new projectors powered by an Evans & Sutherland Digistar 7 control system and custom Bowen speakers that “deliver a feel-like-you’re-there immersive experience, whether in outer space, under the ocean, or anywhere else your imagination and movie magic can take you,” the museum said.

Funds are still being raised for the multi-million-dollar renovation, which has so far secured support from the Saunders Foundation, Raymond James Financial and Hillsborough County. Private funding, including naming opportunities for the theater, is still pending.

“We’re talking about pull-you-in and blow-your-mind educational fun,” MOSI CEO John Graydon Smith said. “Our eight-story-tall screen will surround you with science, with 360-degree movies and the second-largest digital dome planetarium in America.”

Since its founding in 1962, MOSI has received support for its planetarium and immersive theater efforts from AdventHealth, the Saunders Foundation and Hillsborough County. The museum’s new theater and planetarium is expected to open for field trips, museum guests and special events in the first half of 2025.

“This major investment shows that MOSI is committed to staying right here in North Tampa, an area driving innovation thanks to USF, Moffitt Cancer Center, and the transformation of University Mall into Rithm at Uptown,” Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said. “We look forward to watching MOSI continue to grow, here in its longtime home, now and for years to come.”