Immersive Rainforest Experience @ NYSCI

Immersive Rainforest Experience @ NYSCI
Presented in collaboration with Rainforest Partnership and OmniSpace 360
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Step into the heart of the rainforest at the New York Hall of Science’s (NYSCI) Viscusi Gallery! From September 24th to 28th, immerse yourself in a unique, first-of-its-kind pop-up that brings the beauty and urgency of the rainforest to Queens. This installation, launched alongside Climate Week NYC, will showcase stunning visuals, sounds, and the stories of those dedicated to safeguarding these precious ecosystems.

A Glimpse Into the Rainforest
This immersive experience is designed to transport visitors straight into the vibrant, lush world of the rainforest. Using advanced video projection mapping technologies from OmniSpace 360, the rainforest comes to life with stunning clarity, allowing you to see, hear, and feel this magical ecosystem. You’ll experience the vibrant sights and sounds of the rainforest while learning about their vital role in preserving biodiversity.

Since not everyone can travel to the rainforest—we’re bringing it to you. This installation fosters a deep connection between the rainforest and visitors, highlighting our collective responsibility to protect it. As a society, we can take action to preserve the ecosystems that are essential for life on Earth.

Meet Pablo Vanegas: A Real Forest Explorer
Beyond the immersive visuals and sounds, visitors will have the rare opportunity to meet Pablo Vanegas, a renowned herpetologist from the tropical rainforests of the Andes. Pablo has spent years exploring the cloud forests and rainforests of Peru, discovering new species of frogs, snakes, and amphibians. His research provides crucial insights into forest health, as frogs, in particular, are key indicators of environmental well-being.

Pablo will share captivating stories from his expeditions, revealing the challenges and rewards of working in these critical ecosystems. The threats faced by the species he studies—contaminated water, rising temperatures, and deforestation—are global concerns that affect us all. Come discover the common heartbeat that unites us: the heartbeat of the forest.

The Importance of Rainforest Conservation
This immersive installation is not just about experiencing the rainforest but about taking action to protect it. Rainforest Partnership works tirelessly to safeguard vast areas of tropical forests, supporting not only the wildlife but also the local and Indigenous communities who depend on these ecosystems. Through efforts like Pablo’s and the work of Rainforest Partnership, we can all contribute to preserving the health and future of these vital environments.

Join Us at the Launch Party
On Tuesday, September 24th at 3:00 PM, we’ll kick off the STEMocracy Festival with a launch party at NYSCI. Hear directly from Rainforest Partnership experts, learn more about the challenges facing our rainforests, and celebrate the intersection of science, technology, and democracy with entertainment and festivities.

About the STEMocracy Festival
The STEMocracy Festival, hosted by NYSCI during UN Climate Week, explores the connection between STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and democracy. This year’s festival will focus on how STEM is being used to combat climate change, advance equitable solutions, and build safer, more resilient communities. In addition to the Rainforest Experience, the festival will feature film screenings, panels, and more, diving into the critical issues we face as a society.

About OmniSpace 360
This immersive rainforest installation is made possible by OmniSpace 360, pioneers in creating digital environments that transform how people experience storytelling. OmniSpace 360 has brought unforgettable experiences to life, including The Dalí Alive Dome at the Salvador Dalí Museum, immersive concerts at Austin City Limits, and projection mapping activations for Super Bowl LVII.

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