Behind an unassuming door at 140 1/2 East Franklin St. in Chapel Hill lies a hub of creativity that brings the universe to life: an animated film production team dedicated to creating Hollywood-style experiences designed for planetarium domes. Their work attracts tens of thousands of viewers annually, captivating audiences across the globe and right here in North Carolina, where locals can catch their films at the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.
The planetarium’s latest offering, “Mysteries of Your Brain,” is an innovative exploration of neuroscience that immerses audiences in the intricacies of the human brain. This 24-minute animated film is not merely viewed; it’s an experience, made far more impactful when projected onto the multi-faceted dome of the planetarium. The film, which took over a year to develop, aims to engage viewers not just visually, but emotionally and intellectually, creating a sense of connection between the audience and the subject matter.
Established in 1949, the Morehead Planetarium was a pioneer in the region, being the first of its kind in the South and the eighth in the United States. From its inception, the planetarium has focused on producing original shows. Its inaugural production, “Let There Be Light,” was groundbreaking and viewed by millions. This legacy of innovation continues as Morehead embraces evolving technologies and storytelling methods.
Transitioning from analog to digital in 2008 marked a pivotal moment for the planetarium. This leap enabled a resurgence of creativity, leading to the formation of a specialized team comprising visual effects artists, animators, and filmmakers. Their first digital endeavor, “Earth, Moon and Sun,” quickly gained popularity, leading to translations into multiple languages and setting a high standard for future productions. Today, films produced by Morehead’s talented team can be found in theaters across more than 30 states and four continents, showcasing the far-reaching impact of their work.
The creation of fulldome shows necessitates a unique blend of educational and entertainment elements. With the goal of capturing the interest of both children and adults, the conceptualization of each film often begins with funding from federal agencies like NASA or the National Science Foundation, or from private institutions and individual scientists. This financial support provides the foundation upon which creative ideas can blossom.
“We have to consider what the show will focus on in relation to the planetarium,” says Ben Fox, the Digital Production Manager. Comprehending the differences between film for standard screens and a planetarium dome is crucial, as each medium requires a tailored approach to storytelling.
The production process mirrors that of animated Hollywood films, with writers scripting the narrative and illustrators crafting visual elements. Using digital production tools and 3D software, the team renders the film to ensure a seamless narrative that maintains its integrity on the expansive dome. Audio engineers collaborate with composers to produce the soundscapes, while voice artists are enlisted from across the country to breathe life into the characters.
However, one striking difference lies in the concave viewing surface of the dome. The team utilizes a “test dome,” a scaled-down version of an actual planetarium dome, allowing them to assess visuals and make adjustments before the final screening. This iterative process fosters a deeper understanding of how audiences will perceive the completed work.
“It’s rare for a planetarium to actually create their own content,” says Jay Heinz, Director of Creative and Experiential Design. This rarity emphasizes the comprehensive investment in both personnel and technology. Yet, this investment affords the team full creative control, enabling them to communicate scientific concepts in impactful ways that resonate with diverse audiences.
Moreover, Morehead’s creative team doesn’t limit their talents to just their own productions. They provide original content for other planetariums and science centers lacking the resources to create their programming. With over 350 planetariums in the U.S. and nearly 3,000 worldwide, the demand for fresh and educational content is ever-increasing, positioning Morehead as a crucial player in the field.
Since 2020, their reach has even extended into local hospitals, as the creative team began providing virtual reality goggles loaded with their most popular films to UNC Children’s Hospital. This initiative allows children who are unable to visit the planetarium the opportunity to experience the magic of learning that their peers enjoy.
“Technology used to be a limitation, but now it has caught up,” Fox reveals, expressing excitement about the potential to incorporate more virtual reality elements in future films. As the landscape of educational entertainment evolves, so too does the ambition of the Morehead Planetarium team.
Heinz articulates the unique satisfaction derived from witnessing audiences engage with their work: “When you’re making a television show or a conventional film, it’s rare to experience it with others. But we can watch our films in this grand planetarium setting and see firsthand the joy and knowledge they bring to children and adults alike.”