Digital Starlab

This Small Business Innovation (SBIR) Phase I project will investigate the feasibility of a computerized projection system to be used in planetariums in the nation's schools. With such a digital projector, a simulated night sky can be imaged with the capacity for a multitude of motions and displays surpassing all but the most sophisticated of museum planetariums. When coupled with suitable simulation software, information-based technology can be used to encourage interactive and inquiry-based activities. In addition, the planetarium projector will have capabilities shared by no other; that is, being able to project dynamically changing information displays of the earth, including plate tectonics, weather patterns, and biological distributions. The system proffered will help promote interdisciplinary studies, use the latest astronomical and GIS data, and aid in teaching the content of the national standards, especially earth science at the elementary and middle school level.