Unseen Earth – Huld Brings Earth Observation Expertise to the Film Industry
Written by Sara Jokela
Project Manager
Sometimes, we have a chance to step outside our usual work bubble and participate in something totally new. This was the case, when Huld was asked to participate in a Full Dome film production funded by the Erasmus+ program to make a film about Earth Observation. Read Sara Jokela’s behind-the-scenes blog on the making of Unseen Earth.
Over the course of two years, together with Brno Observatory and Planetarium, Maximilian Hell Planetarium, Silesian Planetarium, and Austrian Planetarium Association, a film called Unseen Earth was born.
You might wonder what Huld, who’s key focus in space is software, would be doing producing a film. Our speciality lies in understanding Earth Observation satellites, from the types of instruments available, to algorithms required to turn the satellite data into something usable by the global population. This is why Huld was chosen, along with four planetarium institutions, to provide our expertise in Earth Observation, to ensure that the content and quality of the film is accurate from a scientific and industrial point of view.
Sharing Earth’s Story Together
The project started with a blank slate and a meeting of all the team members. The initial topic of the film was simply, ”preserving the environment”, and with that, our teams began to brainstorm ideas for the film and writing the first versions of the script.
Soon after, the main concept of the film was clear, providing an overview of Earth Observation; what it is, why we need it, and what challenges we face when observing the Earth. To Huld, this topic is nothing new, but looking at it from an educational perspective, brought many new ideas for our team.
Our meetings took us to various planetariums around Europe, offering our team the opportunity to learn more about the scientific outreach programs around Europe. From Czechia to Poland and Slovakia to Austria, we were part of a unique collaboration unlike anything we had done before. Each institution brought something new to the table. Some of our experts were specialized in full dome productions, others in animation and music production. Some had years of experience in scientific outreach programs, with a clear vision for how to produce an educational film.
One thing was clear – everyone was passionate about spreading the message about Earth Observation, and the fragility of our Earth, through the medium of full dome films.
Unseen Earth Premiered This Summer
This project offered a unique opportunity to apply our expertise in a completely new industry. It also enabled collaboration with various institutions we wouldn’t normally engage with, giving us a broader perspective on different working cultures across Europe.
To be part of a project with an aim to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning was a rewarding experience – something our team will take with us into future projects.
The film was completed in June 2025 and had its premiere at the Brno Full Dome Festival, where it won 7th place out of 50 different films from around the world. As the film is part of the Erasmus+ program, it is freely available for any planetarium to download in six different languages.
If you are interested in finding out more, please visit the Unseen Earth -website. And, be on the lookout for Unseen Earth at a planetarium near you!