Echolocation Interactive Exhibit
Unlocking the science of echolocation
An interactive underwater adventure where visitors step into the role of a whale, using sound, light, and motion to hunt invisible prey and explore the science of echolocation.
Brief
The Natural History Museum set out to make the complex science of echolocation engaging and accessible through a hands-on experience. The challenge was to transform an abstract process into an interactive, playful installation that could be enjoyed by children, families, seniors, and visitors of all abilities—supporting both individual exploration and group participation.
Our Approach
Working closely with the museum’s curators, sound designers, and accessibility experts, we developed an experience that used motion tracking, dynamic lighting, and custom audio design to bring echolocation to life.
We designed an intuitive interaction system where visitors emitted “sound bursts” to detect prey, receiving instant feedback through immersive audio cues and responsive LED floor lighting. To make the exhibit inclusive, sensors were placed at varying heights for wheelchair users, directional audio guided visitors with visual impairments, and the layout was kept spacious for ease of movement.
Prototyping and testing were central to our process. We ran early usability sessions with children, families, and seniors, refining sensor placement, adjusting lighting patterns, and tailoring sound design to ensure the experience felt natural, intuitive, and engaging.
Our goal was to turn an abstract scientific concept into an immersive, sensory-driven experience that made learning fun and intuitive.
Our Solution
The final installation delivered an interactive, multi-sensory experience where visitors became whales navigating a virtual ocean. Using motion, sound, and light, they hunted invisible prey by emitting “echo bursts” and interpreting the returning signals — just as whales do in the wild.
Timed challenges added excitement and replayability, while collaborative play encouraged families and groups to work together, deepening both learning and engagement. The experience successfully blended education and entertainment, creating a lasting impression on children and adults alike.
By combining sound, motion, and play, we created an experience that brings the science of echolocation to life.