Unique breakthrough air conditioning technology combines energy storage, advanced dehumidification and climate-safe cooling for unmatched energy reduction and comfort.
The Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with South Florida-based technology company Blue Frontier to install one of the world’s most advanced commercial air conditioners in the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater. This state-of-the-art, ultra-efficient HVAC system will transform the theater into a model of locally developed energy technology, combining superior comfort for guests with unparalleled reduction in electricity usage, integration of energy storage, and reduced environmental impact.
The Blue Frontier AC unit will increase indoor air quality and create ultra-comfort perfect day conditions, by maintaining humidity low without freezing patrons. The AC does this by providing outdoor air ventilation and precise humidity control.
At the heart of this initiative is Blue Frontier’s world-first product, BF-DOASTM — a breakthrough in HVAC technology designed with people’s comfort, sustainability, and resiliency in mind. The company’s pioneering approach has earned national and international recognition, from being named one of America’s Top GreenTech Companies by TIME Magazine, to receiving the 2025 R&D 100 Award for breakthrough air conditioning with energy storage, MIT Technology Review Climate Tech Companies to Watch, and being profiled in a Harvard Business Review case study. This next-generation system delivers unmatched moisture-removal efficiency, built-in energy storage, and digital-twin enabled adaptability and reliability in a single, self-contained unit.
“At MODS, we believe science should inspire action—and this innovative partnership with Blue Frontier exemplifies how cutting-edge technology can drive sustainability,” said Joseph P. Cox, president and CEO of MODS. “This is more than a technological upgrade—it’s a bold step toward reducing our carbon footprint, increasing energy resilience and building a healthier, more climate-resilient South Florida, all while providing our community with a comfortable, immersive IMAX experience that’s better for the planet.”
Blue Frontier’s installation will debut inside the iconic AutoNation® IMAX® Theater, renowned for its six-story screen and unparalleled viewing environment. The theater welcomes hundreds of thousands of guests each year and is now positioned to become a showcase for how institutions can embrace sustainable technologies without compromising performance.
“MODS is one of the most important cultural and educational centers in the Southeast of the US. My own children grew up learning to love science and art thanks to this amazing place,” said Dr. Daniel Betts, CEO of Blue Frontier. “I am so proud that we are now part of this story. With our air conditioning tech, we are slashing energy costs while improving the comfort and quality of the museum’s experience for our families. And we do it by leveraging novel science, technology, creativity, and invention born right here in South Florida! I hope it empowers children to realize that they can also find extraordinary solutions to the world’s most pressing problems.”
This installation marks an important step forward in MODS’ institutional sustainability goals and supports broader regional efforts to mitigate climate change through innovative, scalable technology solutions.
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Blue Frontier Dedicated Outdoor Air System (BF-DOASTM), the world’s most energy-efficient air conditioning system.
MODS is rethinking cool! Our AutoNation® IMAX® Theater just got a major upgrade with Blue Frontier’s revolutionary, energy-saving AC system—born right here in South Florida.
Photo Courtesy of Blue Frontier
Posted: October 15, 2025
