GLPA Conference Proceedings: 1989

Proceedings Editor:  Dale W. Smith, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio.

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Title Author Year Abstract
Star Names in Other Countries Anderson, Dori 1989 Abstract: A frequently-asked question is where do the names of constellations and stars originate? In 1963 Dover Books published an updated version of the 1899 book Star Names: Their Lore and Meaning by R. H. Allen. This book is the primary source for a table of selected northern constellations and their names in nine languages plus a column for obscure references. For younger students the table is refined to six languages as there are many gaps in the Chinese, Hindu, and Arabic due to difficulties in pronunciation and translation. Suggestions for teaching applications will be presented.
Cosmic Catastrophes and Preparation of Literate Citizens Bishop, Dr. Jeanne E. 1989 Abstract: Evidence exists for widespread extinctions as a result of asteroid or other cosmic impacts. The collision process is not just historical - the earth continues to dance among the Apollo asteroids with recent very close approaches to some. One source estimates that the chance of an individual dying as an indirect result of a collision is 1/60 that of dying in an automobile accident. This paper will explore some opportunities for planetarium educators to alert public and students to the conditions as we now understand them, while preventing the growth of a "doomsday" philosophy. Ideas from GLPA participants will be welcomed.
The December Dilemma: What's a Planetarian To Do? Bloom, Rabbi Brad 1989 Abstract: Planetarium Christmas shows create a dilemma pitting science and religion against each other. Several aspects of this dilemma and its solution are considered, including the distinctive roles of science and religion, respect for religious pluralism, and the educational responsibility of the planetarium.
Cycle 22: A NSF-Link Planetarium-Kopernik Observatory Study Buckingham, William 1989 Abstract: Cycle 22 is a unique hands-on science experience for teachers. A three-week teacher institute included seminars, lectures, and extensive hands-on sessions, and produced a teachers' handbook. The project included extensive cooperation among school districts, universities, local business, and the state.
Radio Astronomy at Kingman Museum Cogswell, James 1989 Abstract: A rugged, inexpensive radio telescope has been installed at the Museum. It is used during the day to monitor solar activity and to investigate deep-sky objects at night.
History of GLPA DeBruyn, Dave 1989 Abstract: The formation of G.L.P.A. and its first meetings are described.
Funding for Astronomy at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Elliot, Dr. Robert 1989 Abstract: A one year fund-raising effort has resulted in a major expansion of the Hobbs Observatory into an astronomical information center operated jointly by the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, the County, and the Local Astronomical Society.
Update on Project STAR Francetic, Daniel R. 1989 Abstract: Project STAR is a high school astronomy curriculum that stresses concepts and is activity-oriented. Recent events in its development are described and sample materials are shown.
Science and Technology: In Search of Values Gallant, Dr. Roy 1989 Abstract: Environmentally based values, global in scope, may be essential to human survival. The consequences of scientific illiteracy and the challenge for values are examined in three areas: genetic engineering, feeding the world's runaway human population, and nuclear waste disposal.
Soundtracks on a Shoestring Gordon, Joanna 1989 Abstract: How to make professional-sounding show soundtracks without expensive equipment.
Robots in Space, Featuring R2D2 and C-3PO Gutsch, Dr. William 1989 Abstract: In conjunction with Lucasfilm, Ltd., the American Museum-Hayden Planetarium is in production on Robots in Space Featuring R2D2 and C-3PO. Utilizing video laser-discs plus conventional planetarium projections, the program will be presented live but allows for teacher/projection interaction and individual audience pacing.
Teddy's Quest Hall, Donald S. 1989 Abstract: Daytime audiences in Rochester are largely family groups. The Strasenburgh Planetarium presented its fifth and most successful family show this summer. Teddy's Quest is a teddy bear show (with thanks to Dave Dundee) with good art, story, soundtrack and lots of astronomy.
Science in a Balloon Activity Hallock, Sandy 1989 Abstract: Science in a balloon challenges students to investigate and discover the nature of an intriguing phenomenon, the behavior of a coin rolling around inside an inflated balloon.
An Interactive Planetarium for New England Hatchett, Clinton W. 1989 Abstract: The Christa McAuliffe Planetarium nearing completion in Concord, New Hampshire, will combine all of the latest innovations in Planetarium technology to create an exciting new way to teach Astronomy and the other sciences to school groups and the public in and around the state. Initial equipment includes DIGISTAR, SPICE automation. over 90 special effects, dual Panorama and All-Sky banks, and a six channel sound system with underseat speakers. During the next year in interactive control system will be developed adding the dimension of audience choice to many of the presentations.
Minolta Presents 'Infinium': Invitation to the Universe Hunt, Jeffery L. 1989 Abstract: At last year's GLPA conference we introduced Minolta's family of planetarium instruments. Many were impressed (or overwhelmed) with the description of Minolta's Infinium planetarium. This year we highlight the Infinium's performance and describe future facilities.
Computing Celestial Distances without the Ugly Mathematics Hunt, Jeffrey L. 1989 Abstract: Over many years I've been disturbed about trying to answer student questions about calculating distances of stars and galaxies. Because many of my students do not have the mathematics background to use logarithms, I've developed a set of lessons that allows us to work many problems, and answer questions that are normally beyond my students' mathematical abilities.
Stellar Evolution Along the Southern Milky Way Kaler, Dr. James B. 1989 Abstract: The spectacular southern Milky Way, with star clouds, dust lanes, nebulae, and clusters, contains distinctive naked-eye examples of most stages of stellar evolution. Many of these examples are illustrated.
What's New over the Past Year? Kaler, Dr. James B. 1989 Abstract: Astronomical discoveries of the past year are reviewed. Solar system topics include planetary spacecraft missions, comets, and near-earth asteroids. The effect of increasing resolution by using active optics on earth-based telescopes is outlined in many areas, including globular clusters, the galactic center, and supermassive stars. Among other topics are the unsuccessful searches for brown dwarfs and the prospect of comprehensive stellar opacity tables. [Editor's note: This was the first of a series of annual astronomy update lectures by Dr. Kaler. These lectures are subsequently listed in this index as "Astronomy Update ....," followed by the year of presentation.]
Are Christmas Star Programs in Secular Planetariums Akin to Creation Science in the Public Schools? Kanagy, Dr. Sherman P. 1989 Abstract: In a widespread expression of deep concern over a perceived significant threat posed by creation science in the public schools, numerous scientists and science educators - including planetarians - have raised strong objections. For planetarians, these objections may be a two-edged sword since numerous parallels exist with the inclusion of programs in secular planetariums on the biblical Star that is said to have announced the birth of Jesus Christ. Many of these parallels are itemized here and their implications discussed.
UFOs: Fact or Fantasy? Klass, Phillip J. 1989 Abstract: A variety of UFO reports are described in detail, including ones involving airline and military pilots and the Betty and Barney Hill case. Each is shown to have a prosaic explanation.
Adventures in Renovating: The New Buehler Planetarium Lazich, Gary M. 1989 Abstract: Thinking of renovating? You may be in for the ride of your career! This presentation will depict the total renovation of a 20-year-old theater as a public-private partnership and a case study in managing the renovation process.
The Traveling Spacesuit Show at the Staerkel Planetarium Linton, David 1989 Abstract: At the Staerkel Planetarium in Champaign, Illinois, a public outreach program utilizes as its focus a simulated spacesuit. This method of using this spacesuit is discussed, as an evaluation of the response.
Modular, Interactive and Personalized Exhibits for the 1990's Meyers, C. & Stoke, J. 1989 Abstract: A new Hall of the Solar System is being planned for the American Museum-Hayden Planetarium. Its features will include a large number of video interactive work stations, live national weather satellite and color radar animation feeds and a solar telescope. Solar telescope, satellite and radar imagery will also be directed into the Planetariums's classrooms and Sky Theater.
The Digital Planetarium Murtagh, Terence P. 1989 Abstract: The advent of video projection can have a revolutionary effect on the presentation of images in the planetarium. Using video, planetariums can present special effects at a much lower unit cost than by building dedicated projectors. Several forthcoming developments in video technology are reviewed.
Where in the World Is GLPA? Parker, David E. 1989 Abstract: In recent years the membership of the Great Lakes Planetarium Association has expanded to record levels. This paper examines that expansion as well as the geographic density and facility orientation of our membership.
From the Ground Up: The Building of the SpaceQuest Planetarium Parker, Sharon K. 1989 Abstract: An overview of the design and construction of the SpaceQuest Planetarium, and an invitation to the 1990 GLPA Conference in Indianapolis.
Perkins' Intro and Finale for Star Shows Perkins, Kenneth E. 1989 Abstract: From "Welcome to the Planetarium " to "Wish You a Very Pleasant Good Morning" this is Ken Perkins' typical introduction and finale. It explains the difference between: an observatory and a planetarium and begins with the daytime star called the sun and ends with sunrise.
Planetarium Programs About the Northern Lights Pettersen, Franck 1989 Abstract: Presenting different ideas that can be used in a planetarium show about the northern lights, both in a public show and a participation oriented school show.
Enhancing a Small Planetarium's Audio System Ramberg, Peter 1989 Abstract: Several inexpensive techniques and items can be purchased or made to greatly increase the audio experience to a planetarium program.
IPS Portable Planetarium Committee Reynolds, Sue 1989 Abstract: Definitions and history of the IPS portable planetariums users' group, resources available for members, and a plea for more materials for our file.
Recent Developments at the Fajada Butte Sun Dagger Site in Chaco Canyon Schafer, S. & Neff, G. 1989 Abstract: Since its discovery in 1977 by researchers, A. Sofaer and R. Sinclair and subsequent popularization in Science 80 magazine, the Sun Dagger site in Chaco Culture National Park has become one of the best known prehistoric solstice markers in North America. This paper will review the debate which has ensued regarding its origins and use by the Anasazi, and describe changes in the rock formations over the last two years which may affect the course of the debate.
A Telescope Loan Program Schafer, Sheldon 1989 Abstract: The Lakeview Museum Planetarium has recently acquired three Odyssey 10 telescopes. These telescopes are being loaned to local teachers who have attended a 14 hour training workshop. This paper will describe the organization of the loan program and the elements of the workshop.
Video Programming at the Adler Planetarium Seevers, James 1989 Abstract: The Adler Planetarium is now using video in all types of public programming - for Mars' close approach, the opposition of Pluto, and the August lunar eclipse. The planetarium also acquired a satellite dish to directly receive Neptune images which were interpreted by staff astronomers in a 3-day public program.
Astronomy in Scotland Smethells, William 1989 Abstract: While on recent teaching assignment in Scotland, I explored the history of Scottish astronomy, spent time at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh, and became acquainted with current work. This talk reviews what I found.
Local Planetarium Clusters Smith, Dr. Dale 1989 Abstract: Ohio now has four functioning local clusters of planetariums. Modeled on the Cleveland area group, three other clusters have been formed in the past year to cover southwest, northwest, and northeast Ohio. Percentage participation has been very high and includes many smaller but active facilities not usually represented at the state or GLPA meetings. Thus these clusters are reaching many formerly isolated facilities and involving them in the interacting planetarium network.
The Campaign for Chicago's Brightest Star Sweitzer, Dr. James 1989 Abstract: The Adler has nearly completed a $6.5 million capital campaign. This paper will outline how these funds will be used to create new exhibits and educational programs, as well as build a space-time transporter.
Planet Preview 1989-1991 Victor, Robert C. 1989 Abstract: A two-year preview of naked-eye planetary gatherings, with suggestions for photographic projects with 35-mm camera. Interesting events include: Z-shaped track of Mars around its November 1990 opposition; and a superb trio of Venus, Mars, and Jupiter in June 1991.
Educational Opportunities - 1992 and 1994 Wenning, Carl J. 1989 Abstract: The presenter will describe two events of major interest to planetarians and the general public: the 500th anniversary of the discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus in 1992 and an annular eclipse of the sun (the central path of which passes through GLPA territory) on May 10, 1994. Educational opportunities will be discussed.
Science at Neptune Wessen, Dr. Randii 1989 Abstract: The Voyager II flyby of Neptune is reviewed, with emphasis on the condition of the spacecraft; the intricate navigation required to handle low light levels; wind patterns, rings, and the magnetic field
A Revolution in Measurement Whitt, April 1989 Abstract: Liberte, Egalite, Meridienne! The Adler Planetarium has opened a small exhibit describing the astronomy of the metric system and showcasing some beautiful instruments in the collection. Teachers and students interact with English and Metric systems of measurement.
Update from Merrillville Williams, Gregg 1989 Abstract: The Merrillville Community Planetarium has undergone a minor renovation and has gotten some new equipment since hosting the GLPA Conference in 1987.
Computer Generated Allskies Wujec, Tom 1989 Abstract: Using high resolution computer technology, the McLaughlin Planetarium has produced a series of realistic allsky square rooms. Custom software called PIE produces a single seamless allsky from a single scanned slide.
Ethno-and Archaeo-Astronomical Uses of a Planetarium Zuidema, Dr. Tom 1989 Abstract: The planetarium can be a tool of research, as it allows us to see the sky as peoples of other times and places saw it. Several examples are shown, with emphasis on the Inca culture at Cuzco in Peru.

 

 
 
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