Hundreds of hours are spent in the archives researching the history of actual missions. Many displays are lighted with computerized theatrical lighting, allowing designers to create realistic illusions of time and places with a real sense of atmosphere. Mannequins play an important part of the exhibit and have come a long way from stiff, fiberglass models. The new mannequins are made of foam and latex and have wire frames, allowing for more realistic poses. Many exhibits throughout the Museum include videos featuring specific accounts in history.
Additional exhibits are currently under design and construction.
Resting on a simulated carrier deck, the B-25B comes to life with mannequins representing Lt. Col. Jimmy Doolittle, members of the Doolittle Raiders and USS Hornet crewmembers. Nearly 5,000 hours went into building the new habitat, a testament to the complexity of the project. The VE Day exhibit employs soldier mannequins and authentic Nazi artifacts lying amid rubble to symbolize the Allied triumph over the Nazi scourge in securing victory in Europe. Through research and personal experiences, the staff continues to find exciting new mediums in exhibit design.