Toyota Funds Michigan Science Theater

This weekend the Michigan Science Center in Detroit will officially open the Toyota 4D Engineering Theater.

Toyota provided $1.4 million to build the attraction, which will be used to encourage Michigan students to pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. The theater will show interactive science and technology films, and it allows for live-stream broadcasts of events and conferences.

The exterior of the theater features an interactive wall that encourages visitors to engage in unique STEM activities. The inside features a high-definition projection system with 3D viewing capabilities and enhanced space lighting and other effects—including moving seats, misting and non-pyrotechnic “spark” effects—to create an immersive viewer experience.

Video footage can be streamed to and from virtually anywhere in the world and beyond. This would allow students to talk with engineers as they road test new vehicles, a doctor performing a live surgery or astronauts in the international space station.

As part of the theater's grand opening on Saturday, visitors can view the world debut of the National Geographic film "Extreme Weather 4D," produced exclusively for the theater. More information is available online here.