For observatories with public outreach programs
Bring your observatory
to more visitors.
Dome projection for observatories worldwide that welcome the public, with programming for daytime visits, cloudy evenings and the moments between telescope views.
Public outreach
Use the dome as part of the story.
A public observatory introduces visitors to space through a place, a telescope and the people who explain what they are seeing. Dome projection adds another way to tell that story: imagery can surround the audience while the telescope remains part of the room.
Observatory Projection Systems is designed for observatories with public outreach programs. The system uses multiple projectors around the rim of the dome, a media server and theatrical surround sound. Learn how the system works around the telescope.
Programming opportunities
More ways to use a public observatory.
Daytime tours
Use immersive films and projected visuals as part of a daytime visit, extending public programming beyond the hours available for nighttime viewing.
Cloudy-night programs
When weather affects telescope viewing, a dome presentation can give visitors another way to explore astronomy. The system can also supplement a tour during the full moon.
Live telescope imagery
If a camera is installed on the telescope, its images can be projected on the dome so the audience can view them together.
Interactive presentations
A secondary computer can supply visuals from star-chart or planetarium software through the system’s live input. Pre-produced films and custom content provide other options for a program.
Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory
An example in a working observatory.
The system began with Bruce Feagle’s idea for the Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory dome. In the client testimonials, observatory staff describe how projection expanded daytime tours and supplemented evening programs.
Planning a system
Start with your visitors and your dome.
Tell us about your observatory’s public program, dome, telescope arrangement and the experiences you want to offer. Existing equipment, content needs and the way tours are led are useful starting points for a discussion.
We work with public-outreach observatories worldwide. Contact Bruce Feagle to discuss your location and whether dome projection fits the program you have in mind.
Discuss your observatory ↗