CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee — The Tennessee Aquarium debuted its upgraded Imax 3D theater Feb. 1 that has the only Imax with Laser system in the Southeast according to aquarium officials.
The $1.2 million upgrade features a new laser projection system that replaces the former 70mm film format, a new six-story screen and new 12 channel audio system with speakers in the ceiling for the first time. The theater was closed for four weeks while the new system was installed.
“We’re looking forward to offering our guests a much more immersive experience,” said Don Walker, the aquarium’s director of guest services. “The Imax with Laser system showed us something we hadn’t seen before. This system fills the screen with amazingly crisp, bright and colorful images.”
Because of its location in “Gig-City,” Aquarium officials can combine hi-speed Internet connectivity with the power of laser projection to host live events.
“We will explore opportunities to offer live screenings of sporting events, concerts and real-time educational programs with scientists around the world,” said Walker.