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Custom Inflatable Replica Showcases Scientific Discoveries

Ship TunnelCustom Inflatable Replica Brings Ocean Science to the Heartland

What can the ocean's deepest sub-floor tell us about Earth's ancient history? Plenty, according to the International Ocean Development Program (IODP). For years now, IODP has been drilling, coring, and monitoring the sub-seafloor in a quest to gain a greater understanding of our multifaceted planet. 

Now IODP is bringing its discoveries to communities all over America, through its national traveling exhibit, "In Search of Earth's Secrets: A Pop-Up Science Encounter." 

Designed for display at fairs, festivals, and similar venues, "In Search of Earth's Secrets" involves learners of all ages in exciting hands-on activities. The huge, elaborate display includes a 30-foot interactive floor map plus eight engaging learning stations. 

At the heart of it all stands "JR": an exact inflatable replica of the famous JOIDES Resolution, IODP's flagship research vessel. 

Measuring 45 feet long, the "JR" giant inflatable was custom-built by Landmark Creations. Inside, visitors enjoy an immersive theater presentation, highlighting some of the real JR's fascinating findings. 

"[The inflatable replica] provides an incredibly compelling hook to get kids and the general public engaged and excited about science and technology," explains Sharon Cooper, IODP's U.S. Education Director. "Since it's impossible to bring large numbers of people to the ship, we are eager to bring the ship and its science to people wherever they are.”

Recently "In Search of Earth's Secrets" debuted in Martinsville, Virginia, where it drew enthusiastic crowds. In future months, the exhibit will move to Brunswick, New Jersey, and Brooklyn, New York. After that, it will travel coast to coast, stopping at areas currently underserved by science resources. 

And "JR," the inflatable replica ship, will play a key role at every stop.

 


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What Others Say About Landmark Creations


“The setup is so easy. We have had event tents and other promotional items in the past that were a nightmare to set up and break down. The inflatable is now the easiest part of the setup, and probably the most identifiable.”

- Vaughan Cutillo, Montauk Brewing Company

"We are able to directly track customer traffic caused by the boot, so we know the inflatable boot paid for itself within the first year."

- Jerry Kavsh, Renton Western Wear

"I chose Landmark Creations because they had a reasonable price for a customized inflatable. The other inflatables featured on their site made me confident that they could produce exactly what I was looking for."

- Sara Chadeck, KONO 101.1 FM

“[The inflatable arch] created a wonderful backdrop to brand our events, capture our sponsors in the photos used by the participants, and made it easy to travel down the coast of California without taking up too much space on our trucks.”

- Amy Daugherty, California Coast Classic

"Our tunnel was also a great addition to our pre-game tradition: the Wildcat walk. Our city shuts down three blocks of downtown, and we have hundreds of fans lining the streets with a police escort, while we walk to the stadium."

- Sam Baker, Head Football Coach at Waconia High School

"The Adventure Colon is so rewarding for our organization. Everyone that walks through it is just in awe and learn so much when we guide them through it."

- Oneyda Cuevas, Hope Through Grace, Inc.