This past week, SeaWorld San Diego announced the addition of a new fantastically themed launch coaster for 2012.

Dubbed Manta, like the flying coaster at SeaWorld Orlando, this coaster features two LSM (Linear Syncronous Motor) launches, a top speed of 43 MPH, and a fifty-three foot plunge into an underground trench. Guests will enter a launch area, surrounded by projections of Manta Rays using a first of it's kind in the USA projection technology.

The ride stands 30 ft. tall and will be located in the Forbidden Reef area of the park.

Sea World San Diego will be opening four new shows and attractions over the next two years:

New Killer Whale Show: One Ocean
New Exhibit (Manatee Exhibit Replacement) Sea Turtles
New Spinning Ride: Riptide Resuce
New Coaster: Manta

The first three open this spring, and Manta is expected to break ground next month.