GLPA Conference Proceedings: 1991

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

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Title Author Year Abstract
Hawaiian Eclipse: July 11, 1991 Allen, Robert 1991 Abstract: I led a group of a dozen people from LaCrosse, Minneapolis, Madison, Milwaukee and Chicago to attempt to view the total solar eclipse of July 11, 1991 from the Kona coast of Hawaii near Kailua. Only about one out of five who went to Hawaii for the eclipse saw totality, but we were successful when we moved a few miles just before totality and framed the sun in a cloud break.
Major Planetariums: A Survey Batch, Dr. David 1991 Abstract: The information for this paper comes from a study that examined the administrative relationships between large college and university planetariums and their parent institutions. The purpose of that study was to try to better understand why several such planetariums had found themselves in administrative turmoil and threat of closure. As part of the study directors of the major college planetariums and their immediate supervisors were surveyed on a number of topics related to administration. A few results of the survey that are of more general interest are presented here.
Use of Original Video in Family Planetarium Shows Biddy, Fran 1991 Abstract: What we've learned at the Strasenburgh Planetarium about writing, staging, and shooting original video for Space Bus and Space Elves.
Family Programming Bonadurer, Robert 1991 Abstract: Is there a need for family programs? What is a family program? Is this an opportunity or a problem for the planetarium field?
Using New Technology to Produce Music and Audio for the Planetarium .... A Creative Approach Bowen, Jeffrey H. 1991 Abstract: Bowen and Evans will provide tips on how to produce soundtracks, sound effects, and music scores better, more easily, and more cost effectively.
What's New from SPICA? Brown, Dayle 1991 Abstract: An activity developed at the latest SPICA (Support Program for Instructional Competency in Astronomy) Summer Institute will be presented. The NSF-funded Institute was held at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics to develop a network of resource agents for astronomy education.
Simple Animation with a Mac II Computer Ciupik, Larry A. 1991 Abstract: The Adler Planetarium is now producing in-house video animation for Sky Shows using a Mac II computer system. Many difficult concepts can be displayed best with video animation.
"The Flight of the Phantom Head": A Halloween Planetarium Show Fentress, Stephen S. 1991 Abstract: This special show, first presented in 1991, is a potpourri of folklore, urban legends, optical illusions, local history and weird tales from the history of astronomy, presented in a skeptical, tongue-in-cheek spirit.
No More G.R.I.S! Gordon, Joanna 1991 Abstract: How to get rid of those Gray Rectangles in Space through basic slide masking techniques.
Building a Public Observatory Greenwood, Chuck 1991 Abstract: The Champaign-Urbana Astronomical Society is saving a bit of history and building a first-rate public observatory at the same time. Find out how we do it for virtually nothing in this multi-media presentation.
Scenes for the 1990 Production Techniques Seminar at Strasenburgh Planetarium Hall, Donald S. 1991 Abstract: A five-minute look, via video, of last year's Seminar held in Rochester, NY, which shows what went on, where it happened, and who was there. The Seminar will be repeated this summer.
The Buehler Internship: A Personal Perspective Helper, Carole 1991 Abstract: The author, the second Buehler intern, will present a brief overview of the history and nature of the internship and her views as to the value of the internship experience.
Project CASM: A Multi-Tech Astronomy Education Inservice Program for Teachers Hocking, Tom 1991 Abstract: The Morehead Planetarium has received an Eisenhower/Title II Competitive Grant to implement an innovative series of astronomy education seminars for North Carolina teachers in grades three through eight. This paper presents an overview of the project, as well as its goals and plans for implementation this year.
Buhl Planetarium Preshow Hughes, James P. 1991 Abstract: A pre-show has been developed for showing to visitors as they form a line before entering the Planetarium. The short sequences introduces them to the interactive theater and sets the scene for the show.
Questions for Directed Discovery Hunt, Jeffery L. 1991 Abstract: I have developed a set of questions to use with primary students to direct learning about the motion of the sun during the day.
Hypermedia and the Planetarium Hunt, Jeffrey L. 1991 Abstract: Some hypermedia programs allow the user to create labels for video disk images. This paper demonstrates the use of a hypermedia program to create videos.
Outer Space/Empty Space Hurd, David 1991 Abstract: This unique approach to a scale model of the solar system (both size and distance) involves both props and student participation. The model works best on a football field or may be used with my makeshift idea involving a string and markers.
Paper Plate Astronomy James, J. Wayne 1991 Abstract: Paper plates are great tools for teaching astronomy. They're round, they can be written on, and they're heavy enough to fold and hold an angle (sun shadow). Model anything seen through a telescope with them and use the crinkles along the edge to mark degrees, compass headings, or hours. They store in a standard file folder, can be laminated, stacked, or thrown as UFO's - and you can even eat off them!
Astronomy Update 1991 Kaler, Dr. James B. 1991 Abstract: A wide-ranging review of astronomical research in the past year, including solar system, stellar, and galactic astronomy and cosmology. Topics include high-tech ground and space-based telescopes; Magellan studies of Venus; earth-crossing asteroids; chemical abundances in stars, stellar remnants, and the interstellar medium; x-ray astronomy; galaxies; extrasolar planetary systems; many many more.
Using Davis Planetarium Show Kits Keich, J. & Shea, B. 1991 Abstract: Intended for those who have bought or intend to buy show kits from the Davis Planetarium, this presentation will give hints on using the slides and soundtrack from the kit to the best advantage. Duplicating slides to capture the most details, fitting together panoramas, and re-mixing the soundtrack are some of the topics to be covered. Also mentioned are uses for the kits outside the theater.
The Public's Fascination with Astronomy Knappenberger, Dr. Paul 1991 Abstract: The public is a heterogeneous mixture of many subgroups. Their interest in astronomy falls in at least four main areas: visual appeal, wonder about the big questions, tools of astronomy such as observatories, and space exploration. They express this interest in reading astronomical books and magazines, by joining astronomical groups, and by financial support. Today's emphasis on increasing science literacy provides planetariums a golden opportunity to advance astronomy education.
Observing Mir Landis, Rob R. 1991 Abstract: The Soviet Union has maintained the world's most vigorous manned space program. Since the launch (and subsequent occupation) of the Mir core module in 1986, the Mir complex has grown to be the largest and most advanced space station to orbit the Earth. Mir's orbit is inclined 51.6o, making it visible throughout Hawaii and the continental United States. Abrams Planetarium has provided visibility predictions of Mir for its patrons. During favorable passes, the space station typically shines at zero magnitude and has occasionally and suddenly brightened to -4.5. What follows is a presentation and explanation of the steps involved in making visibility predictions.
Space for Girls Lazich, Gary M. 1991 Abstract: Recent studies by educators and youth leaders indicate that girls tend to shy away from activities and career preparations involving mathematics and science. A Saturday morning workshop revolving around the new Girl Scout Sky Search badge can help counteract this tendency as well as expand a planetarium's clientele.
Side Effects of a Solar Eclipse Marshall, Jon 1991 Abstract: Filling in for two eclipse-chasing planatarians turned out to be far more hectic than anyone had expected.
From the Ground Up: An Introduction to Earth Satellite Observing Nerdahl, Rodney M. 1991 Abstract: This presentation provides participants with information on the what, where, when, sky and how of earth satellite observing - suggesting some activities that will help them get kids and adults outside doing a little space exploration of their own. The author presents information describing satellite tracking software and where to get it, satellite orbital elements and where to get them, a list of space vehicles anyone can "eyeball," and describes some satellite watch activities.
What's Not the Trouble with Hubble Olson, Dr. Randy W. 1991 Abstract: According to many reports from the media, the Hubble Space Telescope is a 1.55 billion boondoggle. In actuality the spacecraft has performed well in most respects and currently has the best resolution of any telescope available to astronomers. This paper takes a look at some of the observations and discoveries of Hubble. The optical fix proposed for 1993-4 will also be described.
New Lights for the Geneva Center Pareis, Alan V. 1991 Abstract: A camp and conference center in North Central Indiana used the opportunity during construction of a building addition to change its outdoor lighting and enhance its night sky. This paper will illustrate principles of low pollution lighting and lighting fixtures.
A Starlab Program Utilizing Role Model Teachers Rall, Gloria 1991 Abstract: In an effort to address some of the problems elementary school children experience in studying science, a Starlab program using a role model teacher has been developed at the Newark Museum Planetarium. This paper discusses the management of such a program.
The New Carnegie Science Center and Buhl Planetarium Ratcliffe, Martin 1991 Abstract: The new Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh opened on Oct. 5. It houses the Rangos Omnimax Theater and the new Buhl Planetarium, a fully-interactive, 150-seat state-of-the-art facility. Add four floors of exhibit space and a World War II submarine, and you have an exciting new science center. This paper will review the center's many facets, concentrating on the Planetarium.
Documented Evidence that the Stonehenge (England) Heel Stone is a Sundial Reed, Dr. George 1991 Abstract: The sun god is represented by the Heel Stone, a large stone standing outside the major Stonehenge structure. The triangular-shaped, south-facing Heel Stone has a natural "face" that is evident from 180 degrees around the stone. The Heel Stone-sun god faces south, the position of the sun at its highest point, and presents a sundial effect during the course of the day.
Seeing the Eclipse from Down Under Sampson, Gary 1991 Abstract: This summer, 25 students joined me for an astronomy exchange to Australia and New Zealand. We visited many astronomical sites "down under," and concluded our trip by viewing the total solar eclipse from Hawaii. I would like to share some highlights from our trip.
Uninventing Kodalith Schafer, Sheldon 1991 Abstract: This paper will describe the use of video projected computer graphics screens to replace Kodalith titles in planetarium shows at the Lakeview Museum Planetarium.
Automation of a Small Planetarium Schreur, Eric 1991 Abstract: The Kalamazoo Public Museum's planetarium audio/visual system has evolved from a manually-operated pair of carousel slide projectors to an array of Ektagraphic projectors, special effects. and video disks controlled by the show tape using a commercial audio/visual programmer and an obsolete computer.
Ptolemy with Ptrue Basic Smith, D. & Crider, A. W. 1991 Abstract: Our microcomputer program "Ptolemy" illustrates how an orbit works in the Ptolemaic model of planetary motion. In particular, it shows how an epicycle produces retrograde motion and how the equant, as an off-center pivot point of uniform angular motion, produces a varying linear speed. Displays involve the orbital motion seen face-on and the planet's motion in the starfield as seen from Earth.
The Dark Side of Iapetus Tabak, R. & Young, W. 1991 Abstract: The dark material on the leading hemisphere of Iapetus may be the result of a comet impact.
The Moon Dance Thompson, Rod 1991 Abstract: Teaching the phases of the moon is not difficult, but relating them to the time of day can be. With simple arm movements, students will quickly find it easy to predict time and position of the phases by using "The Moon Dance"
Exhibit Development at the Adler Planetarium Welte, Jon 1991 Abstract: The Adler Planetarium is planning a major renovation of its History of Astronomy exhibit, and is currently conducting extensive exhibit development and testing as a prelude to this renovation.
The Ohio Sun Serpents White, Dr. John R. 1991 Abstract: The Sun Serpent at Fort Ancient was constructed with an alignment to the direction of sunrise on the summer solstice. The process of excavation and discovery of the alignment is discussed as are the role of the sun and serpents in the Fort Ancient culture.
CARA Space Explorers: Inner City/Outer Space Whitt, April 1991 Abstract: The Center for Astrophysical Research in Antarctica (CARA) teamed up with the Adler Planetarium to offer a week-long astronomy workshop at Yerkes Observatory for a group of students from an inner-city high school.
Solar System Vacation: A New Video at the Adler Planetarium Whitt, April 1991 Abstract: Through a generous gift from Volvo, the Adler production staff coordinated yet another model of the solar system, this time with both size and distance to scale.

 

 
 
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