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CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee (Oct. 21, 1997) -- L5: First City in Space, an IMAX 3D spectacular, premiers on Chattanooga's giant screen Nov. 15 at the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater.

The powerful L5 drama gives IMAX viewers a realistic glimpse 100 years into the future -- when humans live and work in a space city orbiting Earth. Groundbreaking 3D computer generated imagery, NASA data and actual IMAX space footage are combined in this visually arresting and compelling feature film about L5, the first working "community" in space.

"The amazingly lifelike and scientifically accurate story gives our visitors a "sneak-peek" at humanity's first exciting steps toward life in outer space," said Carson Malone, theater manager. "And the fascinating 3D imagery on our six-story screen allows visitors to experience life on L5 without ever leaving Earth." L5 premieres at the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater Saturday, Nov. 15, at 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Guests who arrive early can picture themselves as an astronaut with NASA's Astronaut Bruce McCandless, NASA's life-size photograph of him floating in space. Plus, visitors can meet TOPS, a 10-foot inflatable astronaut who answers space-related questions and is manned by experts from the US Space and Rocket Center. Visitors can also inspect a 16-foot-tall replica of the space shuttle before launching into space with L5.

The new film will alternate with the Aquarium's flagship film, Into the Deep, an underwater adventure that takes place in the kelp forests off the coast of Monterey, Calif. Show times for L5 will be Sunday through Thursday at 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 2, 4 and 6 p.m. Friday through Saturday, the film will be offered at 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Advance ticket purchase is suggested.

The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is the largest freshwater aquarium in the world. Built with private contributions, this non-profit educational organization is dedicated to the understanding, conservation and enjoyment of the Tennessee River and related ecosystems. Admission is $10.95 per adult and $5.95 per child, ages 3-12. The Aquarium is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas and is accessible to people with disabilities. The Aquarium’s TDD number is (423) 265-4498, and FM assistive listening devices are available on site. For more information, call 1-800-262-0695.