SOS Theater
Dr. Alexander E. MacDonald, a scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), first proposed the innovative concept of “projecting Earth and space data onto a three-dimensional sphere” in 1995, naming it Science On a Sphere® (SOS). This system uses four high-resolution projectors to display the latest data from NOAA and NASA onto a suspended spherical screen, immersing viewers in a space-like environment where they can explore our planet and the cosmos from diverse perspectives.
Our museum introduced the SOS display system in 2008, becoming one of the earliest installations outside the United States. The spherical screen, measuring 173 cm in diameter, allows visitors to clearly observe changes in Earth's atmosphere and oceans—such as typhoon paths, climate change, ocean currents, and plate tectonics—while also viewing precious data including solar system planets, galactic imagery, and even cosmic background radiation.
To enhance interactivity, the dome screen was upgraded to 240 cm in diameter in 2025, complemented by the introduction of the Kiosk interactive system. Visitors can now select diverse datasets or thematic animations—such as global weather patterns, polar changes, or Martian topography—to explore how scientists observe and interpret our world.
These continuously updated visual materials stem from decades of observational achievements by NOAA and NASA. Through the SOS Theater and interactive Kiosk system, you can not only appreciate the magnificent vistas of Earth and the cosmos up close but also gain fresh insights into environmental and scientific issues, embarking on a unique journey of knowledge.