Having grown up hard-of-hearing, Ethan Castro, co-founder of EDGE Sound Research, focused his doctoral degree research on recreating an audio experience by leveraging tactile dimensions. This led to the invention of ResonX, an immersive audio technology redefining how people engage with sound. And from there, ResonX would give birth to Castro’s utterly experiential Aurora Project.
Aurora’s Conception
In wanting to showcase the patent-pending technology, Castro and his team partnered with several artists and companies. With names like Epson and Rabcup backing the project, the goal was to create a three-movement multimodal audiovisual experience. Titled Aurora, the project took place at Riverside Studios in Riverside, California.
It was nearly a decade in the making. Collaborating with Professor Joan Sharma of California State University, Fresno, Castro designed Aurora to immerse guests in the Earth’s journey through nothingness, birth, recovery, and beyond with his novel technology.
“Our goal with Aurora was to not only showcase ResonX, but deliver an important message about our Earth’s current path that would resonate with individuals of all ages,” says Castron. “We did this through the combination of multiple senses, and it would not have been possible without the support of our partners and artists involved.”
With the goal of challenging the way people experience sound, a complete multi-sensory event was needed. Castro sought to captivate and drive an emotional connection to the planet Earth through Aurora, and the production company Rabcup was integral in bringing the visual components—provided by longstanding partner Epson—together.
Using Epson Pro L1070UNL and L1075UNL large venue laser projectors with ELPLU03 Short Throw Lenses and Epson PowerLite L735U and L730U laser projectors, along with MadMapper software, Rabcup was able to fine-tune the images to create one continuous and deeply immersive visual that flowed across the three walls surrounding guests. This, combined with the ResonX technology, unlocked Aurora’s experiential potential.
Aurora’s Reception
“Aurora is an impressive infusion of re-imagined audio technology, compelling visual effects and artistic creations that delivers a powerful environmental message,” says Remi Del Mar, senior product manager, Epson America, Inc. “Climate change is a problem that isn’t going away and there’s never been a more important time to collectively become more aware of how we – as individuals, corporations and businesses – are affecting the planet.
“Aligning with the Epson 25 Renewed Corporate Vision and desire to support this direction, we are honored to lend our technology to help Ethan bring his vision to life and tell the story in an impactful and immersive way,” he says.
A striking moment that adds greater depth to the concept of immersive audio, Aurora highlights the great potential ResonX has in creating truly interactive soundscapes.
Another version of this article originally appeared on My Tech Decisions.
