TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry announced a multi-million-dollar addition to its hub for hands-on STEM learning.
After being closed since 2017, MOSI is redeveloping its iconic blue dome into the nation’s second-largest planetarium.
Each year, MOSI welcomes thousands of children to play and learn, including Kaliyah Richards.
Her mother, Dr. Tamara Richards, was a chaperone for her daughter’s class trip.
“They did three different STEM experiments inside of the classroom,” said Dr. Richards.
Soon, children and their families will be able to experience a new way of learning at the new Digital Dome Theater.
“It’ll be an 8K, fully immersive, 300-plus person theater experience focusing on educational content, but with the capacity to do much more,” said CEO John Grayson Smith.
Smith says the 10,000-square-foot screen has already been installed and can display 360-degree movies and even laser light shows and concerts.
Both Dr. Richards and her husband are pharmacists. She says engaging youth this early can inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.
“I’m a pharmacist by day,” she said. “So I tell her [daughter], ‘Mommy has done all types of chemistry.' To broaden her horizon, I allow her to experience these things at a young age so she can make an informed decision as she grows. It’s important for me to have her come to a science museum.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM jobs are projected to grow by almost 11% by 2031.
Per Education Week, the growth is four times faster than non-STEM jobs.
Mayor Jane Castor says MOSI has played an essential part in developing the local skilled workforce.
MOSI’s new addition is predicted to foster further development in Uptown Tampa, attracting new businesses and housing.
“We have companies moving here every day, relocating their headquarters or expanding into the Tampa Bay region,” said Castor.
Dr. Richards, who was exposed to her career in the fifth grade, says she’s glad her children will have an immersive experience in their own backyard.
“To have something this close to home, we don't have to travel to allow them to experience STEM programs or STEM exhibits is going to be phenomenal for the kids,” she said.
A museum spokesperson said the new attraction will open sometime in the first half od 2025 and will likely include a separate admission charge. Officials also said they plan to expand its hours and staff once the new planetarium is opened.