The California Science Center IMAX theatre is set to launch a new 3D experience that will showcase the devastating power of volcanoes and their impact on the planet.

Expected to open on 21 January 2019, Volcanoes 3D: The Fires of Creation takes guests on an epic journey with intrepid explorer Carsten Peter as he scales an active volcano in Indonesia, descends to a lava lake in Vanuatu, visits geysers, acid ponds and mineral deposit fields in Ethiopia. Visitors join Peter as he explores Pompeii, visits hydrothermal vents in the ocean and witnesses the 2018 Kilauea eruption in Hawaii.

"Volcanoes 3D offers the closest possible approximation to experiencing an eruption, or descending into a volcano, while remaining safe," said Jeff Rudolph, president of the California Science Center.

It was developed by SK Films, in partnership with Digital Crossing Films, a company specialising in natural history documentaries for IMAX and giant screens.

Wendy MacKeigan, CEO of SK Films, said: "Audiences will see volcanoes up close and personal, like never before on the Giant Screen. The film will take them to places they would normally not be able to go."

Michael Dalton-Smith, director and producer of Volcanoes 3D, said: "We often think of volcanoes as being destructive, but they also build and play a beneficial role on the planet.

"Dozens of volcanoes erupting each day from the bottom of the ocean to mountain peaks. To witness one in action is both beautiful and awe-inspiring I hope that the audience will come away with a better understanding of the forces that shaped the world we know today."