Ronald H. Henderson

rhenders@mtsu.edu

Ronald H. Henderson

Physics and Astronomy

Discipline specific equipment

WPS 212 (portable)

N/A

N/A

Introductory astronomy is taught to 750 students yearly in support of general education natural science requirements. One laboratory involves the use of a planetarium that projects a representation of the nighttime sky on the inside surface of a portable dome. Our current planetarium uses 30+ year old analog technology that incorporates a bright light that is projected through holes in an opaque cylinder. The images of stars are dim, and instructors are limited to showing objects previously imprinted on the cylinder. Digital planetariums combine the image capabilities of a computer with the increased brightness of a digital projector. There is no comparison. While our current system projects a series of white dots, digital systems project actual images of planets, stars, and galaxies, with the ability to change perspectives and magnify images during the presentation. Digital planetarium experiences are educational and very exciting for participants. We propose the purchase of a digital planetarium projector and a 6-7m dome to comfortably accommodate 32 adults. This combination will not only enhance the experience of many hundreds of astronomy students each semester, but its portability will allow the planetarium to be used in expanded outreach activities to K-12 schools.