How IMAX, Flying Cars, Pyro Drone Shows and More Work | WSJ Tech Behind

Custom-engineered optics eliminate chromatic aberration across 180-degree field

Engineers spent two years developing proprietary glass with custom curvature to capture sharp 8K images across the massive LED dome without color distortion.

Hidden 8K cameras provide immersive VIP viewing angles

Five 8K cameras concealed in field goal pylons and rolling carts stream live footage with minimal delay to create a stadium-like experience for fans paying $11 to $200 per ticket.

Rapid expansion targets 1,200-plus annual events per venue

Following venues in LA and Dallas, COSM plans openings in Atlanta and Detroit with dynamic pricing models that adjust based on demand similar to traditional stadiums.

Ultralight classification bypasses pilot licensing requirements

The $190,000 aircraft qualifies as an FAA ultralight vehicle, allowing operators to fly after just two weeks of company training rather than obtaining a traditional pilot's license.

Whole-aircraft tilt design reduces mechanical complexity

Unlike competitors using tilting wings or propellers, Pivotal tilts the entire aircraft frame to transition between vertical lift and horizontal flight, eliminating numerous failure-prone moving parts.

Battery limitations restrict commercial applications currently

The 348-pound weight limit restricts battery capacity to 20 minutes of flight time, preventing commercial use over congested areas until the company achieves FAA certification for larger models.

World's first retractable pitch splits into three underground sections

The 9,000-ton natural grass field divides into three 3,000-ton trays that roll into an underground parking garage to reveal an artificial NFL turf, enabling conversion within 36-48 hours.

Precision hydraulic system maintains exact leveling tolerances

A monitored hydraulic mechanism lowers the pitch 1.8 meters while maintaining alignment within 25 millimeters, automatically pausing if trays become uneven to prevent structural damage.

Multi-use design maximizes venue revenue streams

By protecting the primary soccer pitch while hosting NFL games, concerts, and boxing events, the stadium can operate 365 days annually with over 1,200 events, generating additional income to reinvest in the football club.