Take Flight at MSI

United Airlines’ 727 aircraft first landed at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago over 20 years ago, giving visitors an experiential window into the friendly skies. Over time, however, the rapid pace of change in exhibit and aviation technology made the attraction ripe for reimagining. It was time to refresh Take Flight, both embracing updated design and teaching visitors about present-day technology. Morlights was brought in to help pilot the 727 into the current world of aviation, aligning with the museum’s standards for imaginative technology.

Morlights, a longtime Museum of Science and Industry partner, was brought in from project inception, and immediately made an impact through value engineering and strategic insights into the construction process. When our design called for 500 linear feet of LED tape to be installed, illuminating every detail along the plane’s interior, our recommendations included using the integrator to handle installation, rather than the electrical contractor—a significantcost savings that allowed more of the budget to be spent on creating a rich, engaging experience for the exhibit’s end users. Challenging physical logistics, including installation on both the exterior of a suspended airplane and throughout tight interior spaces that extend intothe tail, were carefully navigated, resulting in a successful installation.

Throughout the exhibit, lighting elevates and highlights both current aviation technology and the plane’s now-vintage details. In the cockpit, lighting was designed to work with a new interactive audiovisual display, with carefully calibrated dimming that allows the display to take center stage and lights that pinpoint each instrumentas the visitor is learning about it. As visitors move towards the middle of the plane, lighting is used to highlight period details such as original hatracks and galley stations, and enhance story stations that teach visitors about airplane operations. Towards the tail of the plane, lighting is designed to illuminate the superstructure and ribbing of the entire aircraft, even extending into the tail itself, where several key aviation systems are housed.

Combining key process insights, pinpoint strategic design and technical wizardry, Morlights’ work showcases the impressive technology of the 727, piloting guests through the exhibit and revealing the wonders of air travel—successfully landing Take Flight in 2021.

"As an aviation lover, I was excited not only to guide the team towards a beautiful, revitalized exhibit, but to be able to literally sit in the pilot's seat throughout the entire process!" - Casey Diers