Science Storms at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is a dramatic and interactive environment where guests of all ages can explore the physics of light and the science behind powerful natural phenomena. This 26,000-square-foot permanent exhibition showcases 50 large-scale exhibits and experiments. These interactive experiments include a 40-foot-tall tornado of swirling vapor and light, a 20-foot diameter spinning avalanche disk, an automated heliostat, and suspended ripple tanks that are illuminated from the ceiling to project wave patterns onto guests below.

The greatest lighting design challenges were to: create an atmosphere inspiring to young guests; create a "surround" that ties the space together while allowing each exhibit to stand out from the background; and conceptualize exhibits that illustrate the behavior and properties of light. The judges commented: "We appreciate the creation of this inspiring space — it's very innovative…The integration of exhibition and lighting creates excitement…It's great to see light itself explored as an exhibit!"

Most exhibits are illuminated with GE 150-watt ConstantColor® CMH® G12 3000 K lamps in framing spotlights, located in five slots in the 60-foot ceiling. The main surround uses blue LEDs to uplight 16-foot-tall, 7- inch- deep cavities behind perforated metal. The upper 30-foot wall and ceiling cove use blue-gelled T8 fluorescents. Paint colors were adjusted to match the fluorescent walls to the blue LEDs. Openings in the floor glow with additional blue LEDs to complete the surround.