The Fred G. Dale Planetarium at Wayne State College houses the most technologically advanced and educationally versatile planetarium in the state of Nebraska with a Spitz SciDome high-definition projection system (www.spitzinc.com) that puts 3 million pixels on the 30 foot dome, can show 500 million stars, can look at space from any location in the solar system, can move backward and forward through time 100,000 years, and much more! Also part of the renovation was the installation of a 7.2 surround sound system, brand new carpet and reclining, and dome-experience specific seating for up to 50 viewers. The lobby includes some wonderful astronomical murals by local artist and professional mural painter Rich Bohacek, photos and displays, a kid’s corner, and a scale model of the solar system.
The planetarium has always and continues to support the science curriculum on campus. In addition to serving Wayne State students on a daily basis, the facility is also made available to area residents through special programs offered to schools and organizations and regularly scheduled shows offered to the general public on Sunday afternoons.
The Fred G. Dale has been an especially useful resource in serving both the needs of Wayne State students and the interests of area residents. In the 40 years of its operation, more than 140,000 people have visited the planetarium, gaining new insight into the wonders and workings of the universe.
Mr. Carl Rump, associate professor of earth science, was the director of the planetarium from 1969 – 2008. Dr. Todd Young, professor of physics and astronomy, is the current director.
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