On the second floor of MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, in Santa Barbara, California, an easily overlooked server room has come alive with a new, 3D holographic exhibit about “The History of the Internet.” The room is where MOXI connects to the internet that powers all museum operations, visitor services and interactive exhibits. The space was re-imagined in collaboration with Cox Business, the commercial division of Cox Communications, so visitors who visit the exhibit will be greeted by a friendly robot named Photon.
Photon’s job is to ensure everything in the server room runs as fast and smoothly as possible. A 3D hologram, Photon flies around the server room and guides visitors through a 90-second story of how the internet first began, how fast a fiber optic cable transmits information, and makes a special note about Santa Barbara’s role in developing the internet. This is the first exhibit at MOXI to use 3D holographic technology.
“At Cox we’re thrilled to be able to work with the team at MOXI to highlight the history of technology and innovation in the Santa Barbara region,” said Kirsten McLaughlin, market vice president for Cox Communications and MOXI board member. “Thought leaders and innovators in this region, like the University of California, Santa Barbara, were instrumental to the connectivity driving education and business in our community. This exhibit is an ode to these trailblazers.”
“MOXI is grateful for Cox’s early support and continued partnership that ensures the museum can function effectively with reliable internet connectivity, and for this unique opportunity to turn a “back-of-house” aspect of the museum into a delightful surprise experience for our guests. It’s another example of how we inspire the kids in our community with real-life stories of innovation in their own backyards,” said Robin Gose, president and CEO of MOXI.
Tickets, Member reservations and information about all museum programs and events are available on MOXI’s website, moxi.org.
About Cox Business
The commercial division of Cox Communications, Cox Business provides voice, data and video services for more than 355,000 small and regional businesses nationwide, including health care providers; K−12 and higher education; financial institutions; and federal, state and local government organizations. The organization also serves most of the top-tier wireless and wireline telecommunications carriers in the U.S. through its wholesale division. For more information, please visit www.coxbusiness.com.
About MOXI
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation® is dedicated to igniting learning through interactive experiences in science and creativity. Located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s redeveloped tourist area at 125 State Street, the museum is LEED-certified Gold and serves guests of all ages through its hands-on exhibits and education programs. MOXI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization generously supported by its daily guests, members, facility rentals and donations from individuals, foundations and corporate partners. For more information, visit moxi.org.
By Charla Batey, Cox Communications