Members can request these papers for FREE as PDF files attached to an email message: request them by sending an email to Geoff Holt (gholt@madison.k12.wi.us). Specify the specific paper and year, or the entire year that you would like to receive.
These papers can also be obtained by members in printed format by sending the completed order form and check to Geoff Holt. The cost is 10 cents/page for copying; postage and handling is $1.50 for orders from 1 to 25 pages, $2.00 for 26-50 pages, and add 50 cents for each additional 50 pages or fraction thereof. As specified on the order form, checks are to be made out to GLPA. (Contact Geoff Holt regarding the number of pages.)
THE POWER OF THE PLANETARIUM THEATER
40th Anniversary Conference Founders Lecture
Von Del Chamberlain
Abstract: A founding member of GLPA expresses appreciation for what GLPA
members have accomplished in the four decades of the associations existence
and relates an incident involved in the origin of GLPA. He expresses the
belief that the planetarium is a medium with great learning power and
that no medium has ever been created with greater power to inspire the
intellect. The lecture is focused on the power of words and images and
advises that we should use thoughtful discretion in both the language
and images we employ under our star-domes.
THE MENTORING OF RED
2005 Armand N. Spitz Lecture
David L. DeBruyn
Abstract: Most of us can recall individuals and circumstances that contributed
significantly to our personal and/or professional growth. Those special
individuals influence the life paths of those they touch, often without
realizing it. The case is made that planetarium specialists, by the unique
nature of what they do-bringing the universe indoors and interpreting
it-are mentors: to the public they stimulate, to students they teach,
and particularly to younger associates they work with over the years.
ASTRONOMY UPDATE 2005
James B. Kaler
Abstract: Though Mars is always in the news, it was nearly eclipsed this
year by a satellite, Saturn's Titan, whose surface was finally revealed,
and by a new "planet" larger than Pluto that inhabits the outer
extension of the increasingly populous Kuiper Belt. Much farther away
we studied what appears to be kuiper belts or asteroid zones surrounding
other stars, and more stars with orbiting planets, the low- mass record
for which is a mere nine Earth-masses. From a greater distance astronomers
noted a powerful blast from a "soft gamma ray repeater," created
a new map of the Galaxy's spiral arms, saw bunches of dwarf galaxies around
us, and watched the collisions of whole clusters of galaxies.
BLUE PLANETS TO BLACK HOLES
Dr. Anne Kinney
Abstract: Astronomers are now building detection equipment, and even planning
space missions, designed to detect earth-like planets suspected to be
orbiting distant stars. Latest efforts in the exciting area of research
will be described. Opposite in every way from such blue planets are black
holes. These invisible cosmic abysses profoundly influence objects in
their vicinity with their powerful gravity. Current progress in understanding
black holes and space missions planned to learn more about them will be
presented.
AN EARLY HISTORY OF THE SCHOOL PROJECTION PLANETARIUM AND THE GREAT
LAKES PLANETARIUM ASSOCIATION
40th Anniversary Conference Founders Lecture
Dennis W. Sunal
Abstract: Many competing ideas and functions have been proposed and put
into practice during the development of the projection planetarium in
the United States. One idea has been that of the planetarium as an "educational
tool." This label has been consistently stated, even though the role
of the planetarium in education has changed greatly. The potential use
of the planetarium as an educational tool in elementary and secondary
education appears to have had a slow and difficult evolution. A study
of this evolution along with major competing attitudes and determining
factors in society, as evidenced in the literature, can provide insight
into the change process involving educational innovations and, specifically,
the change process involving the planetarium as an innovation in the American
educational system.
FIND YOUR SUPPORTERS!
Garry F. Beckstrom
Abstract: Find or create an event that will get people excited about your
planetarium. People who are excited about what you do are most likely
to be the ones who will be there for your facility when funding or other
support is necessary. The staff of the Delta College Planetarium and Learning
Center has created an annual Fourth of July fireworks event/fundraiser
that has been extremely successful.
WHAT DO PLANETARIUM VISITORS EXPECT?
Garry F. Beckstrom
Abstract: Advances in technology, especially in the last 30 years, have
driven the evolution of the planetarium from a place to "demonstrate"
a remarkable machine, to a multi-image, immersive, space theater-type
show environment. But, what do public and school group visitors actually
expect when visiting a planetarium? After almost 30 years of operating
planetariums, I'll share some observations.
RICHARD H. EMMONS: SMALL PLANETARIUM INNOVATOR
(May 29, 1919-June 29, 2005)
Jeanne E. Bishop
Abstract: My father, Richard Emmons, gave the Armand Spitz lecture for
GLPA in Cleveland about 10 years ago. On June 29 this year, he died of
cancer. In this presentation I will share the story of my father's design
and use of small planetariums in the 1950s, a time when A- and A-2 Spitz
planetariums were starting to be sold. I am grateful to David Gill, a
close friend of my father's and a member of the Wilderness Center Astronomy
Club, for scanning and digitizing many pictures from my father's files.
I will use 50 of the photographs in an all-photograph PowerPoint portrayal
of a very special life focusing on astronomy education and research. Some
additional details, beyond the ten-minute paper limit, will be included
in the Proceedings.
Editor's note: Reprinted with permission and with slight modifications
from the Planetarian vol. 34, n. 4, December 2005.
RUMPLESTILTSKIN'S STARRY SECRET
Robert Bonadurer
Abstract: Rumplestiltskin can't really make gold. So, where does this
precious element come from? In fact, where do all the elements of the
periodic table come from? Through a Chandra X-Ray EPO grant, this film
will reveal how we discovered the source of all the chemical building
blocks we see all around us, and in us.
LIFE AFTER RETIREMENT
Dayle L. Brown
Abstract: "Life After Retirement"... is incredibly busy and
satisfying. I now have the time to pursue several lifelong ambitions,
including planetarium education (with children and adults), entering the
world of art, and writing/illustrating children's books.
COLOR CCD PHOTOGRAPHY FROM DOWNTOWN CHICAGO
Larry A. Ciupik
Abstract: This paper presents experiments using our 20-inch telescope
and CCD camera located in downtown Chicago to produce color photos from
sequences of black and white images taken through R, G, and B filters.
A NEW PLANETARIUM IN WAUKESHA, WISCONSIN
David A. DeRemer
Abstract: This paper describes the planning, construction and completion
of a new 40 foot diameter, 90 seat planetarium located in Retzer Nature
Center in Waukesha, Wisconsin.
ASTRONOMY/ART/MUSIC + MUSEUM WOMEN'S COUNCILS = SURPRISE HIT
Stephen S. Fentress
Abstract: A fairly simple talk on the theme of connections between art,
music, and astronomy was surprisingly successful with a meeting of Women's
Councils of three local museums and has been requested twice more since.
The material in the talk came from sources well-known to planetarians
such as Sky & Telescope articles. Does this tell us something about
possibilities with the market of mature lifelong learners? If you can
do a planetarium show you could do a version of this talk, adapted for
your locality. I offer my outline and invite you to steal whatever ideas
may be useful.
HOW TO MAKE AN ARROW POINTER
John French
Abstract: This paper shows how to make a pointer that projects an arrow
on the planetarium dome, using an LED, some plumbing parts, an old lens
and a few simple tools. Pictures of this pointer can be seen at: http://www.pa.msu.edu/people/frenchj/pointerglpa2005/
along with images of arrows for downloading.
FORGOTTEN CONSTELLATIONS OF THE NORTHERN SKIES
Shane Horvatin
Abstract: Most everyone has heard of Ursa Major and Orion, but do you
know where to locate Globus Aerostaticus or Felis? This presentation will
reintroduce some of the lost and forgotten constellations of the past.
SCIENCE THAT SUPPORTS LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Dr. David W. Hurd
Abstract: Using simple text about the moon and symbol supports, a new
book fosters language development and literacy within the context of science
learning. It will be suggested that this book, when coupled with "science
notebooks" and inquiry based learning, can improve students' language
abilities as well as increase their science literacy. The wider application
suggests that some of the methods incorporated in this presentation are
applicable in all areas of science education at all levels.
GETTYSBURG ADDRESS REVISITED
Art Klinger
Abstract: The PHM Planetarium Air/Space Museum for the third time in its
25-year history was suggested as a budget cut by another new Superintendent.
This could easily happen to any planetarium regardless of whether it's
in a public school setting or a museum setting. This paper explains the
strategies used to avoid the budget axe.
THE SUCCESSFUL INTEGRATION OF CURRENT RESEARCH INTO THE PLANETARIUM:
EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF A COSMOLOGY SHORT COURSE
Randall H. Landsberg
Abstract: In September 2003 the Kavli Institute of Cosmological Physics
(KICP) offered a historic, intensive, three-day short course on cosmology
for planetarium staff, "Origin of Structure in the Universe."
Active research scientists taught this course with the goal of providing
participants a basic foundation in cosmology and tools to bring the excitement
of discovery back to the planetarium, and ultimately to the public.
See: http://kicp.uchicago.edu/education/courses/2003-origin/
A follow-up survey conducted one year after the course indicated that
it had and will continue to have a profound impact. Participants reported
that 3,245 students and 82,155 visitors Experienced Cosmology Content
Directly Influenced by the 2003 Short Course within one year. Other positive
indicators reported by respondents included:
* Direct Impact on Planetarium Shows (71%)
* Major Change in Public Programming or Teaching (42%)
* New Collaborations (31%)
* New Shows Created Based on Information Received in Short Course (29%)
*
This summative evaluation also revealed richer qualitative aspects of
the course's impact including: attitudinal changes; that "Knowledge",
"Experts" and "Resources/Visuals" were the considered
the most valuable aspects of the course, and that the initial needs assessment
of the planetarium community used to design the course had been invaluable.
THE VISUALIZATION OF ASTROPHYSICAL DATA: BRINGING TOGETHER SCIENCE,
ART, & EDUCATION
Randall H. Landsberg
Abstract: In May 2005 the KICP hosted a workshop that capitalized on the
confluence of technology, data, research, and outreach in the field of
astrophysical scientific visualization. This workshop was attended by
a broad spectrum of participants including researchers, educators, computer
scientists, planetarium staff, and members of industry, all of whom reported
it to be useful. The workshop also served as tool for collecting and showing
off compelling, current astrophysical visuals - some of which formed the
basis of a session titled "Visualizations from Recent Science Research"
at INSAP V. For more details see: http://kicp.uchicago.edu/viz2005. This
workshop and other "astro viz" efforts should be of great interest
to the planetarium community as they may be a fertile source of materials
for programming that have the added benefit of being closely connected
to ongoing research.
"RULES OF ENGAGEMENT"
Gary Lazich
Abstract: This presentation elaborates on themes first explored ten years
ago in Grand Rapids. Comparing planetariums to starships highlights the
critical role of a story ("course") and the ways its unfolding
can engage as well as immerse our audiences ("passengers").
A LARGE-SCALE EARTH-MOON-SUN DEMONSTRATOR
William O. Mitchell
Abstract: A large-scale, multi-purpose orrery readily captures student
and planetarium visitor attention, and actively involves them in demonstrations.
The system helps visitors visualize and understand the basic interactions
of Earth, Moon and Sun-including eclipses, lunar phases, and the reason
for Earth's seasons.
FILEMAKER FOR PLANETARIUM DATABASES
Brock Schroeder
Jesse Washkau
Abstract: Since 1996, we at Strickler Planetarium have used FileMaker
software for scheduling, database management, and slide cataloging. This
paper will outline our uses and applications.
TEACHING SCIENCE WITH MONEY
Dale W. Smith
Abstract: The world's currency features images of dozens of scientists
and their legacy of discovery. I am developing a planetarium show that
uses this resource to teach topics in astronomy, physics, and biology.
HUBBLE UPDATE
John M. Stoke
Abstract: A round-up of news and planetarium-related projects and opportunities
from the Space Telescope Science Institute's office of public outreach.
PREVIEW OF PLANET VISIBILITY, 2006
Robert C. Victor
Abstract: This talk accompanied a Digistar planetarium demonstration of
the visibility of planets at dusk and dawn through 2006. The only naked-eye
pairing in a dark sky will be of Mars-Saturn in mid-June, when Mercury
and Jupiter will also be seen. Also shown will be two low dawn pairings
with Venus in August, and the most compact trio of 1980-2050, of Jupiter-Mercury-Mars
in December 2006.
THE CLOSE JUPITER-SATURN CONJUNCTION OF 2020
Robert C. Victor
Abstract: At intervals of about 20 years, skywatchers have a chance to
catch Jupiter and Saturn, the slowest-moving naked-eye planets, close
together in the sky. At the next occasion, in the evening sky in December
2020, the two planets will appear closer together than at any time between
1623 and 2080.
NOW WHAT DO THEY WANT?
Mark Webb
Abstract: In March and April of 2005 patrons were solicited for questions
before and after planetarium shows. Here is what 618 visitors want to
know.
THE PHOTON CONNECTION
David Weinrich
Abstract: During the past 15 years CCD cameras have become available at
many of our institutions. Is there still a need for our visitors to look
through a telescope? In this paper I will talk about the astronomy facilities
at my university, how we conduct public viewing sessions, and why I feel
there is still a place for visual observing.
DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?
(A SCIENCE NIGHT OUT EVENT FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED STUDENTS)
April Whitt
Abstract: Fernbank Science Center worked with liaisons from DeKalb County
to offer a Science Night Out at the planetarium. But this event was for
visually impaired students and their families.
OUR SOLAR SYSTEM: A NEW WAY TO LOOK AT OUR NEIGHBORHOOD
Susan Batson
Abstract: How do you incorporate new discoveries into lessons on the Solar
System? This poster focuses on classifying and describing groups of objects-planets,
asteroids, KBOs, even Oort Cloud objects-by properties, distance, and
number.
"SPECIAL EVENTS" TO INCREASE INTEREST AND AWARENESS
Garry F. Beckstrom
Abstract: By having several "events" each year, a planetarium
can target particular audiences, and also appear to always have something
fresh and new going on. This keeps interest and awareness up in your area.
The Delta College Planetarium and Learning Center hosts several such events
each year. This poster paper highlights a number of them.
2005 IPS UPDATE
Chuck Bueter
Abstract: The International Planetarium Society (IPS) continues to advocate
the interests of the planetarium community. Abbreviated 2005 updates on
the poster address IPS Strategic Planning, the IPS Star Partners Fund,
the Armand Spitz Planetarium Education Fund, the 2006 IPS Conference in
Melbourne, Australia, the IPS Statement on the Ancient Age of the Earth
and Universe, the 2005 IPS/Eugenides Scriptwriting Competition, and other
relevant news.
NO STARFIELD, NO PLANETARIANS
Chuck Bueter
Abstract: Imagine a world with no starfield, with no planetarians. In
the modern era, a diligent, ubiquitous power imposes its will on the realm
of astronomy, keeping in check the language of centuries. Astronomy terms
that have endured the ages are now routinely challenged by a tireless
arbiter of legitimacy-namely, the software "spell check" feature
on which we often rely.
PLANETARIUMS AS CONDUITS
Chuck Bueter
Abstract: The NASA Explorer Institutes (NEI) initiated a series of workshops
and focus groups to identify strategies to implement effectively the NEI
goals and objectives. In January 2005, The Great Lakes Planetarium Association
(GLPA) and NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) jointly conducted a focus
group entitled Planetariums as Conduits to NASA's Target Audience. The
GLPA/GRC focus group results, which specified seven action items to the
mutual benefit of NASA and planetariums, were incorporated into the larger
NEI survey. NASA subsequently announced $1.2 million in internal funding
opportunities for informal education programs.
WHAT'S REALLY SPECIAL ABOUT A PLANETARIUM?
Susan Reynolds Button
Abstract: Planetariums are special places for a variety of reasons for
each person. What unique characteristics make the planetarium a special
place for you? This paper will explore those characteristics and why we
should be sensitive to them as we seek to fulfill our various missions.
WORKING WITH THE BLIND THROUGH THE PLANETARIUM
Keith Halstead
Abstract: This poster reflects the learning experience I have encountered
about working with the visually impaired through my work with Dr. Hurd
and the Edinboro Planetarium.
THE ASTRONOMY JEOPARDY GAME
Sean Peters
Abstract: The Jeopardy game has been a very popular television program
for thirty years over the past four and a half decades. Its popularity
has permeated into the school system to help students learn about a variety
of subjects. Astronomy Jeopardy is used to help elementary school students
learn about basic astronomy while playing a fun game.
A REMOTE-CONTROLLED FAN FOR STARLAB DOMES
John Potts
Abstract: In this paper I describe how to modify a box fan for remote
control. This aids in the entry and exit of personnel in the dome.
FUNDRAISING FOR THE ASTRONOMY/PLANETARIUM CLUB
Allison Pressman
Abstract: This poster will detail how using the Observer's Calendar produced
by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada has benefited our club. Also
how we have used our profits.
INTERACTIVE COSMOLOGY IDEAS
Jeanne E. Bishop
Abstract: Cosmology is at the forefront of current astronomical experimental
research and theory. Each year astronomers learn more about early stages
of our universe and the nature of matter and energy in it. With other
GLPA planetarians, I attended outstanding cosmology and astrophysics workshops
at the University of Chicago and Adler Planetarium in September of the
last three years, 2003, 2004, and 2005. I will share some activities I
have developed to communicate ideas important in cosmology, including
false color, dark matter, and the expanding universe. The presentation
will include references to Piagetian developmental levels.
SKYLORE
Dayle L. Brown
"Skylore" is a wonderful way to introduce children to the sky
and to cultures of other people around the world. Participants will hear
sky lore and try role-playing as they explore mythologies from other cultures.
GLPA, WE HAVE A PROBLEM (A LIGHT POLLUTION WORKSHOP)
Chuck Bueter
Abstract: The Great Lakes Planetarium Association (GLPA) addressed light
pollution at its 40th Annual Conference with a workshop dedicated to sharing
techniques for preserving the night sky. Workshop attendees addressed
lighting issues from the perspectives of varied interest groups and stakeholders.
Several of the workshop activities can be used by other dark sky advocates
as they, too, spread the message. Details and images are at http://www.transitofvenus.org/workshop.htm
TECHNICAL AND MAINTENANCE ISSUES FOR SPITZ PROJECTORS
John Hare
Abstract: Helpful technical information about various Spitz projectors,
and procedures that can and should be performed to keep them performing
reliably and efficiently.
Updated: October 21, 2007