Completing the Educational Exhibits Supporting the Initial Planetarium Show at Griffith Observatory

Abstract

The Gottlieb Transit Corridor is a key educational exhibit that enhances the impact of the inspirational storytelling of the new planetarium show that was funded by the FY2004-O5 grant. It provides an "aha!" moment to all who encounter the exhibit as the motion and nature of the sky are dramatically demonstrated before the visitors' eyes. From a learning standpoint, astronomy is often considered a gateway for interest in other sciences. Science literacy is imperative in this age of fast moving technology and global economy. The challenge for an institution such as Griffith Observatory is that the public's understanding of astronomy is filled with misleading information derived from science fiction, antiquated ideas, and incomplete awareness of new information. This creative new outdoor exhibit reveals the celestial meridian and the motion of the sky using physical architecture. It is in well thought-out, distinctive, immersive environments like the Transit Corridor that visitors have the opportunity to engage in the practice and excitement of observation through real experiences and to become astronomical observers. Such experiences are the basis for genuine educational inspiration that motivates tomorrow's scientists and educators to want to know more. Inspiration based upon observation is the educational objective of the Transit Corridor.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 18, 2008
Accession Number
ADA479254

Entities

People

  • Camille Lombardo
  • Mark Pine

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • African Americans
  • Astronomical Instruments
  • Astronomy
  • Department Of Defense
  • Environment
  • Executives
  • Observation
  • Observatories
  • Observers
  • Scientific Research
  • Scientists
  • Standards
  • Stars
  • Sun

Readers

  • Astronomy/Astrophysics
  • STEM Education
  • Systems Analysis and Design