GLPA Conference Proceedings: 1993

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

GLPA Members:  You can download these Proceedings using the following link. Note that you must be logged in to download the PDF file.

PDF:  1993-proceedings.pdf  (1.8 MB)

Non-members:  You can order a PDF of this Proceeding ($3) or the entire Proceedings CD ($4) through the online store. They can also be purchased through the mail using the order form.

 

Title Author Year Abstract
Topics for Today's Planetarium Ackerman, Wendy M. 1993 Abstract: By addressing the question of planetarium show topic variety to members of the planetarium community, a comparison of show topic menus may be achieved. This paper will inform other planetarians of how and which topics are selected for production at the Davis Planetarium while also conducting a survey of other theaters' offerings. Survey data will be compiled for publication in GLPA 1993 conference proceedings
Why Is that Light in the Sky Moving So Strangely? Allen, Robert 1993 Abstract: Some reports of strange motions of objects seen in the night sky can be accounted for by the autokinetic effect. I received a phone call which led me to an investigation which revealed that the "culprit" was the star Capella. A similar incident in 1979 turned out to be Arcturus. A summary of these two incidents will be given.
5-5-2000 Allen, Wade E. 1993 Abstract: Brace Yourself. Another Earth destroying planetary alignment is coming, and we've already received some calls.
A Customized Sundial Onepager Batch, Dr. David 1993 Abstract: Plans for creating a horizontal sundial out of one sheet of paper will be shown. The design of horizontal sundials will be discussed and information provided to customize the design to your location.
State of the Planetarium Questionnaire: Discussion of Results Benjamin, Bart 1993 Abstract: In the spring of 1993, the Great Lakes Planetarium Association (GLPA) developed a questionnaire intended to assess the relative financial condition of its member planetariums. Sent to all 225 members, and subsequently completed and returned by 64 members, this questionnaire reveals how planetariums are coping with the financial pressures imposed upon many of today's schools, universities, and museums.
Use of Wayne James' Paper Plate Astronomy in a Primary Parent-Child Class Bishop, Dr. Jeanne E. 1993 Abstract: The wonderful ideas of using paper plates that Wayne James has shared with us at GLPA meetings were the inspiration for this class. In 3 sessions children in grades 1-3 work with a parent to make glow-in-the-dark star charts, galaxy models, sun dials, and models of the solar system. The cut moon phases to match they see in a planetarium demonstration.
Planetary Exploration in the 1990's Clark, Jerry 1993 Abstract: The 1990's have become an exciting time for continued scientific exploration of our Solar System by way of data received from instruments on interplanetary spacecraft. And the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, continues with a heritage spanning five decades in the forefront of robotic endeavors to the planets and beyond.The highly successful Magellan project mapped 98% of the surface of Venus and is providing an understanding of the interior as well. Galileo, on its necessarily circuitous route to take images and other readings of Jupiter, has had brief, but very successful encounters with Venus, Earth, and the asteroids Gaspra and Ida, even with its flawed main antenna.Though contact was lost with Mars Observer, a vigorous follow-on mission is being planned and will be rapidly deployed to provide systematically collected information about the planet's atmosphere, surface, and interior for a complete Martian year (687 Earth days). These data will provide the basis for the more specialized and quickly implemented explorations of the Mars Environmental Survey mission. This series of small landers and surface rovers will provide detailed, localized information that could possibly lead to human landings in the future.Other missions include the Ulysses mission that has been launched and oriented into an orbit so it can look at the poles of the Sun. The Cassini projects to Saturn will use a probe to sense the planet's atmosphere, a camera for imaging its moons and rings, and a radar device to image the surface of its cloud-enshrouded satellite, Titan. The Pluto Fast Flyby will visit the last planet, capping the exploits of the Voyager I and II spacecraft that are now travelling beyond the heliosphere and into deep space.
Oh Wow! Shifting Trends in Astronomical Visuals Fentress, Stephen S. 1993 Abstract: Today's digital images represent merely the latest move in a long-running game in which scientists try to convey the strangeness and wonder of new worlds to a novelty-hungry public and to each other. This game is played not only in astronomy but in other branches of science as well. It is interesting to see which images become all-time hits and which, deservedly or undeservedly, are left in the dust.
Get Organized! Greenwood, Chuck 1993 Abstract: Speaker will share some ideas on how to stay organized during the production process, and how to keep your dome from becoming a rat's maze.
A Gamma Ray Astronomy Lab Grossenbacher, Roger 1993 Abstract: Plans for a device are presented that allow students to carry out searches for gamma ray sources with a geiger counter.
Some Thoughts on the Space Shuttle Grossenbacher, Roger 1993 Abstract: Comparisons made between NASA estimated of pre-flight costs of the shuttle and those of other space experts shows a wide divergence.
Developing a Mission Statement for Your Dome Hunt, Jeffery L. 1993 Abstract: The presenter will relate how he developed a mission statement for his planetarium. Ideas to use in developing such a statement will be presented.
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star: Accommodating the Handicapped Hurd, David 1993 Abstract: Visually impaired and blind students have a difficult time with many concepts in astronomy. For those that have once had their sight and have lost it, the stars in the sky are but a memory. For those who have never had their sight, astronomical ideas are very abstract. Regardless of the disability, planetariums are required by the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide equal access and equal opportunity to programs. This paper will discuss the implications of these laws and also the use of tactile star maps and other aids for the handicapped in the Atmospheric and Space Science course offered at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
The Paper Plate Meets the Football Field James, J. Wayne 1993 Abstract: A "Hands-On" experience using 2 common materials - (1) Paper plate (2) Football field. The experience addresses a common misconception about the motion of the moon - that the moon "loops" around the earth - when in fact the path of the moon is always concave to the sun! At a distance of 100 yds - goal line to goal line- the plate is about the radius of the moon's orbit, and the width of the field represents about 30o or 1 month.
Astronomy Update 1993 Kaler, Dr. James B. 1993 Abstract: Astronomical research during 1993 is reviewed, beginning with status reports on several groundbased and orbiting telescopes and planetary spacecraft. Solar system topic include Magellan results from Venus and impacts on various surfaces of meteorites, comets, and the solar wind. Stellar topics include new high-precision parallaxes, sites of active star formation, and interactions between stars and the interstellar medium. Other topics include the Hubble constant and interactions between galaxies.
Music for Planetarium Sky-Shows Kaplan, Paul 1993 Abstract: Imaginative music is an essential element in the cinematic experience of today's planetarium shows. It must work with the narration and visuals to create effective emotional range and variation.
Covering the HST Servicing Mission from Your Planetarium Landis, Rob R. 1993 Abstract: The Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission is the most complex shuttle mission ever attempted. The most experienced crew launched aboard the space shuttle will make an unprecedented five planned EVAs to replace failing hardware to restore the Hubble to its full scientific potential. Planetaria are among the HST project's biggest cheerleaders. HST is a national resource and NASA Select television may provide planetarium patrons a ringside seat to the high stakes, high profile nature of the STS-61 (Endeavour) flight. This paper suggests a possible background program and day-by-day coverage planetaria may wish to share with the public and media during the servicing mission.
Multiculturalism and the Planetarium Linton, David 1993 Abstract: Cultural Diversity, or multiculturalism, has in recent years become an increasingly popular theme in American educational institutions. The implications of this development have not been fully realized by planetaria sited in such institutions. This paper explores those implications, examining ways for the planetarium to contribute to, and to profit from, the cultural diversity movement.
The Planetarium Mystique - Our Secret Weapon Marshall, Jon 1993 Abstract: Conflicting signals seem to be coming from many directions regarding the effectiveness of our educational system, especially in the areas of science and math. We know of the appalling level of misconceptions of astronomical concepts as simple as what make the sun "rise". The news media report that tens of millions of U.S. citizens cannot find a street intersection on a city map or do simple computations as they shop at the supermarket and that in a few years we may have a severe shortage of technically-trained people. This seems to fly in the face of the fact that many thousands of college graduates and experienced scientific workers cannot find appropriate jobs in our economy now. How can our unique capabilities in the planetarium contribute to real improvement in awareness and knowledge of science, both for students and the general public? We need to capitalize on peoples' inherent curiosity about nature by using the planetarium's very special environment to enlighten and help them to understand not only the important facts and principles of science, but also to realize how their lives are affected and enhanced by science, even if they don't happen to take time to notice. A little magic, a little mystery; we have secret tricks of our own to float some dreams.
Northern Sky Stories Neff, Georgia 1993 Abstract: Activities and original stories focus on the Big Dipper and its position through the year.
Coming Attractions: Previewing 1994's Best Sky Sights Nerdahl, Rodney M. 1993 Abstract: During this presentation, participants will get a sneak preview of some of the best naked-eye sights visible during 1994. Using computer-generated illustrations created by the speaker for a regional natural history calendar, the author will show Mercury's most favorable apparitions; some eye-catching conjunctions of the Moon, Venus and Jupiter occurring in the latter half of the year; Mars' apparent motion among the bright star of Taurus and Gemini (visible in the predawn sky in the summer of 1994); Saturn's evening apparition late in the year, and an "eclipse doubleheader" - featuring the May 10th annular eclipse of the Sun and the May 24th lunar eclipse.
SN 1993J from Chicago Pareis, Alan V. 1993 Abstract: M81's supernova described and illustrated with CCD images (April-August) from the Adler Planetarium's Doane Observatory.
Lessons for a Planetarium Intern Philpott, Jean 1993 Abstract: An internship is a valuable learning experience for anyone wishing to pursue a Planetarium career, even for someone who already has some experience in the field. I will discuss some of the skills that I am acquiring as a Planetarium intern, such as: editing an astronomical newsletter, show production, and special effects construction.
Planetarium Programming for the Hearing Impaired Pirko, Richard 1993 Abstract: I should title this paper "Hearing Impaired Shows by an Untrained Beginner." I don't know of anyone presenting a paper after presenting exactly one show, but that is just what I am doing. We all start out as beginners. Maybe this paper is more of a pep talk than a scholarly text.
Soft Edge Masks for Panorama and All-Sky Shows Pirko, Richard 1993 Abstract: This paper will show the results of the soft edge mask workshop. Keystone correction and percentage of overlap will be briefly described.
The June 1991 Three Planet Gathering and the 1992-93 Mars Loop in Gemini Pon, Jenny L. 1993 Abstract: Two slide sets available in the GLPA Slide Bank and an activity involving the use of them will be presented.
The Renovation of the Abrams Planetarium Pons, Jenny L. 1993 Abstract: Abrams Planetarium, after 28 years, underwent a major renovation of its theater during the latter half of 1992 to bring it up to more modern standards and to prepare it for the installation of a DIGISTAR. A photo documentation of the various stages in the entire renovation process will be presented.
IPS Portable Planetarium Committee Update Reynolds, Sue 1993 Abstract: If you're interested in what's new in the field; and what's happening in other countries; suggestions for inexpensive special effects products; new products for Starlab; and how to start a successful small and portable planetarium users' group in you area - come and hear this paper!
Project IMAGE Sampson, Gary 1993 Abstract: Project IMAGE (Investigative Materials About Global Environments) is a curriculum development initiative under the auspices of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and the National Science Foundation. Sixteen classroom activities relating images of the Earth from space to environmental issued have been developed. Examples of images and activities will be presented.
A Starry Tale Schafer, Sheldon 1993 Abstract: This paper will describe the production techniques used in the video production of "A Starry Tale". Excerpts from the show will be shown. The show is narrated by three puppets, Alvin the Owl, Ziggy the Skunk, and Basketball Jones (a hip dragon).
Remodeling on No Budget! Thompson, Rod 1993 Abstract: Most school planetariums have little or no budget to upgrade or remodel their rooms or equipment. Since most school planetariums are in the neighborhood of 15-23 years old, remodeling is or will soon be necessary. But how? Mentor High School Planetarium was recently upgraded to a more modern facility using funds to which we all have access: Permanent improvement.
101 Ways to Spend Your Money: Part 4 and Summary Tomlinson, Gary 1993 Abstract: In the past 10 years almost 200 different manufacturers have made over a thousand products that relate to astronomy for the consumer - astronomical placemats, astronomical shoes, clothes, jewelry, furniture, clocks, etc. For the planetarian, these sources can be a gold mine for obtaining items for fundraising, parties for donors, thank you gifts or even gifts for your favorite planetarian or astronomer. Some of these items are very useful for the classroom teacher as well.
Spin-Offs from SPICA Underfer, J. et al 1993 Abstract: Selected materials and/or activity sheets evolving from the NSF SPICA Astronomy Institute conducted 1991-93 will be presented. Materials and information will include simple and inexpensive devices, simulations, etc. The session will replicate workshops conducted by SPICA Staff and participants at local, State, and National meetings. SPICA is the TEACHER ENHANCEMENT program which was developed as an outgrowth of the Harvard/Smithsonian Project STAR (Science Teaching using Astronomical Roots).
Sky Phenomena in 1993-94: Some Digistar Modules Victor, R. & Pon,J. 1993 Abstract: Several sky phenomena from late 1993 through mid-1995 are described using Digistar demonstration modules. Selected Abrams Sky Calendar charts are included in the printed version of the paper.
Beautiful Lunar Eclipse to Conclude Thanksgiving Weekend Victor, Robert C. 1993 Abstract: A modified news release describing the lunar eclipse of November 28, 1993.
Kid Stars: Children's Activities at the Adler Planetarium Whitt, April 1993 Abstract: As Adler's long range plan gets underway, programs for families with children are the new focus. Here's the latest on Adler's activities for young visitors.
Using Lunar Eclipses to Measure Longitude Young, W. & Pirko, R. 1993 Abstract: During last December's lunar eclipse, two local school classes timed the event with an hour glass and used the timing to calculate their longitude. The technique is accurate to about one degree.
Serpents of the Sun Young, Warren 1993 Abstract: Youngstown State University, with the help of Art Goss from Dayton Museum, is producing a planetarium show on the astronomy of the prehistoric Indians of the Ohio Valley. The show will concentrate on solar alignments at Fort Ancient, Sunwatch and Serpent Mound. It will be available to other GLPA planetariums after September 1994.

 

 
 
BACK TO GLPA PROCEEDINGS PAGE