Legends of Flight to Premiere at the Smithsonian’s Lockheed Martin and Airbus Imax Theaters June 9

Smithsonian Theaters presents its newest flight film Legends of Flight June 9.This giant-screen film was developed specifically for Imax and other large-format theaters, and it was created by acclaimed filmmaker Stephen Low (Fighter Pilot) and K2 Communications in association with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.

The film will be presented at the Lockheed Martin Imax Theater in the National Air and Space Museum at Sixth Street and Independence Avenue S.W. in Washington, D.C., and at the Airbus Imax Theater in the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center at 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway in Chantilly, Va.

Legends of Flight explores the relationships among natural flight, advanced aircraft design, innovative construction techniques and the operational technologies that have created a new era of commercial aircraft development. It brings a new perspective to aviation through the skills and personality of the chief test pilot for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Capt. Mike Carriker. As his virtual co-pilot, Imax viewers will experience multiple aircraft flights as Carriker searches for design clues to the perfect aircraft. They will soar engineless through breathtaking mountain passes, barnstorm in a Stearman biplane and experience the sheer exhilaration as a Harrier Jump Jet leaps into the sky and rockets to tactical speed. Audiences will also get an up-close look as Carriker takes the Dreamliner on its first flight.

Legends of Flight moves audiences beyond the incredible Imax cinematography by innovatively incorporating the use of Stereoscopic Animation Drawing Device (SANDDE) technology. SANDDE enables Carriker to simplify technical explanations of aircraft via cutting-edge animation, giving audiences a better understanding of sophisticated engineering and aeronautical principles through a groundbreaking and immersive visual format that will have them mesmerized.

The Imax film is 43 minutes long and complements the exhibits in both of the Air and Space Museum locations. It opens June 9 and will run daily throughout the summer and beyond. Tickets will be available May 26 and may be reserved up to two weeks in advance. The public may call (202) 633-4629 or visit www.si.edu/imax for information or to purchase tickets.

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