MP-STUDIO, a Bulgarian visual effects company, deployed VIOSO’s camera-based autocalibration and playback solutions to power the fourth edition of the LUNAR Festival of Lights, which transformed 10,000sqm of iconic architecture and urban space across Sofia, Bulgaria, into a glowing canvas of light and art. Other technology in use included Epson projectors and AV Stumpfl’s Pixera media servers.
The internationally celebrated event featured 3D projection mapping, light installations, and immersive visual storytelling from artists around the world. Their work was designed to ignite imagination, provoke thought, and delight audiences. The event took place over four evenings from May 8 to 11, 2025.
At the National Library “St. Cyril and Methodius,” VIOSO’s ProjectionTools software was used to align and calibrate multiple projectors using three cameras. This software is designed to meet the challenge of projecting onto intricately engraved columns, ensuring pixel-perfect alignment. VIOSO’s media player, EXAPLAY, powered the final output.
Another highlight was the immersive dome experience “The World at Risk,” developed in collaboration with the Faculty of Economics at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski.” This 360-degree audiovisual installation explores everyone’s collective role in addressing global challenges, offering a sensory-rich experience based on scientific data.
The dome featured Epson projectors, Pixera media servers by AV Stumpfl, and 5-channel dome calibration using only one fish-eye camera with VIOSO6 software.
Rounding out VIOSO’s involvement was their contribution to “bEYOND”, a 6-projector blend on the stunning façade at Alexander I Street. This installation, celebrating the 25th anniversary of one of the biggest national TV channels bTV Media Group, invited audiences on a journey through time and possibility. The collaborative projection mapping brings together studios from around the globe to create a bold narrative of humanity’s future.
An independent initiative by the Bulgarian visual effects company MP-STUDIO, LUNAR is the result of a decade-long passion for light art. MP-STUDIO is known in Bulgaria for pioneering the country’s first 3D projection mapping in 2011, illuminating the façade of the National Theatre “Ivan Vazov.” Since then, they have delivered more than 800 events and installations across 26 countries.
During the festival, visitors and residents of Sofia could explore 14 central locations featuring video and static 3D mappings, interactive installations, a laser show, and more. All exhibits were free to the public and were on display from 9PM to midnight each night.
Raul Vandenburg, executive director of VIOSO, commented: “Every time we work with Marin and the team at MP-STUDIO, we know something special is going to happen – and the LUNAR Festival is no exception. We’re proud to see our playback and calibration technologies powering such spectacular events and honored to play a key role in this year’s edition.”
