Perot hopes to spark ‘ah-ha’ moments with new exhibit

By Becky Mayad

Knowing that children learn best through highly engaging and interactive educational tools, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and Ericsson are joining forces to bring cutting-edge, augmented-reality (AR) technology to the Museum’s T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall (aka, the “dinosaur hall”). Developed by Ericsson, the mobile-based immersive application will shed light on the Museum’s prehistoric aquatic creature, fondly dubbed the Dallasaurus (an early member of the mosasaur group), empowering guests to be “Cretaceous code breakers” with a few quick clicks of their phone or device. 

The Ericsson Every Place Has A Story (EPHAS) app is a unique new product that utilizes a wide range of media, including AR and video content, to bring the past to life while creating a highly engaging experience for users.

Many might be surprised to know that an amateur fossil finder in Dallas discovered the bones of the ancient animal, ultimately changing our picture of prehistoric life in North Texas. 

Dallasaurus provides a rare snapshot of life caught in transition, as a group of formerly land-living lizards first began to move back into the seas, evolving over just a few million years to become giant apex predators dominating the world’s oceans. 

“Here’s your chance to see this fascinating marine reptile return to the seas of Dallas for the first time in 92 million years,” said Dr. Linda Silver, Eugene McDermott chief executive officer of the Perot Museum. 

“We want to spark ‘ah-ha’ moments that cultivate a lifelong love of STEM, and interactive activities like this bring the wonders of science to life.”

In line with the Perot Museum’s mission, Ericsson’s platform will act as a catalyst for science learning. The goal is not just to provide information about the marine reptile but create an engaging experience that puts visitors in the shoes of paleontologists, piecing together the awe-inspiring story behind the mysterious early mosasaur.

The partnership with Ericsson, a global leader in ICT services and solutions with its North American headquarters in Plano, Texas, is an initiative that aligns with the Perot Museum’s focus to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and the critical role both organizations play in advancing learning.

“Immersive learning experiences created using technologies like augmented reality open up an amazing world of experiential learning, allowing students to feel the thrill of scientific discovery and inspire them in ways we have never been able to before,” said Bhushan Joshi, head of sustainability and corporate responsibility for Ericsson North America. 

“As the Perot Museum nears its 10th anniversary, we are so grateful to collaborate with Ericsson — a global leader in telecommunications and pioneer in STEM innovation,” added Silver.

The experience is expected to launch in spring 2022. More details will be announced at a later date.

The Perot Museum is located at 2201 N. Field Street in Dallas, Texas. For parking information and other details, visit perotmuseum.org or call 214-428-5555.