Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) announced a significant multimillion-dollar project on Wednesday afternoon, reaffirming its commitment to remaining near the USF campus.

Mayor Jane Castor and other leaders unveiled the project, highlighting it as a major advancement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education.

The project involves reopening the museum’s iconic Dome Theatre, which will begin showcasing films on a new 10,000-square-foot screen early next year. Officials promise a “feel-like-you’re-there immersive experience” with new speakers.

In addition to serving as MOSI’s new Saunders Planetarium, the theatre will accommodate over 300 people—more than six times its previous capacity. Visitors can look forward to planetary tours, undersea expedition simulations, and other engaging content in a 360-degree format.

Upon completion, the dome will be the second-largest digital dome planetarium in the United States.

City and county leaders anticipate the project will provide “blow-your-mind” educational experiences to Tampa.

Established in Sulpher Springs in 1962, MOSI has been a cornerstone of science and innovation in Tampa since 1980, offering hands-on learning in various educational subjects.

According to leaders, STEM jobs are projected to grow by nearly 11% by 2023, almost four times faster than non-STEM jobs.

The announcement event saw the attendance of the mayors of Tampa and Temple Terrace, a Hillsborough County Commissioner, and MOSI’s CEO.

Officials emphasized that this investment will create a standout learning destination in the Southeastern U.S. for students.

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(Image credit: Tampa Bay Business & Wealth)