FAQs

What is a planetarium and what is it used for?

Of all the natural sciences (biology, chemistry, geology, etc.), only Astronomy has a single device to teaches the subject - the planetarium.

Because the night sky looks like a dome, there is no better way to display stars, planets, and other celestial objects, than on a dome.

There are three designs used in the production of mobile planetarium: (1) inflatable, (2) semi-rigid, and (3) suspended domes.

Because constructing and maintaining permanent planetariums is so expensive, a need arose for a small, affordable, easily transportable planetarium. This allows teaching astronomy to a wider audience. It also serves as a lucrative business for groups and associations such as astronomy clubs, schools, colleges/universities, and municipalities.

What is the ideal location to set up a portable planetarium?

Indoor locations are ideal. Only there can you control temperature, lighting, and have easy access to electrical power. You will also be in an insect-free environment and able to avoid inclement weather. Minimum room size should be 18 ft x 18 ft and 10 feet high. Find a location free from noise and pedestrian traffic. Room darkening capability is a distinct advantage. A gymnasium or assembly hall is ideal.

How complicated is it to operate a CANOPUS projector?

It couldn’t be easier. There are only two major controls. One dims the interior lighting enabling a transition into darkness. The other turns on the stars. At a later time the operator can add other projectors that will show the Milky Way, constellations, comets, and both the Sun and the Moon.

How many stars does CANOPUS project?

Choose one of three cylinders: (1) 2,750 magnitude 5.45 stars as seen in the city (2) 3,480 mag. 5.70 stars as seen from darker areas (3) 4,875 mag. 6.00 stars as seen in the high mountains away from the city.

What other images does CANOPUS project?

13 deep space objects such as nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies
5 naked eye planets: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn
20 of the most recognizable constellation figures
6 stars in color
a comet
the Sun
the Moon with its phases

These projections are hand held so that the constellation images can be moved around the dome and against the stars to place them accurately.

Are there any other cylinders available?

Three optional cylinders can be purchased:

Messier and New General Catalog (NGC) objects
Synoptics constellations
Celestial coordinates

What other topics can be taught in the dome?

The dome was conceived for astronomy instruction only. Other topics, including certain aspects of astronomy, those not requiring a dome, can be taught in a more conventional location on a larger, flat screen using 35mm slides, digital projection, and both DVD and VHS format.

How are domes constructed and how do they work?

A dome is a cloth hemisphere. It is inflated with an external fan that quietly blows air into the dome. It can accommodate as many as 50 persons seated on the floor who watch astronomy presentations with stars projected on the dome’s interior.

What comes with a complete CANOPUS system?

a dome that is available in different sizes and capacities.
Your choice of star projector. (others are available)
an exterior fan.

Can we purchase other items to compliment the system?

Canopus projectors may be purchased with any one of three star cylinders. Additional cylinders may be purchased immediately or later.

Domes with a fan are available in different sizes – each having a different audience capacity.

The ‘optional’ eclipse projector only works with our system.

What maintenance is required?

CANOPUS is a sensitive instrument and must be handled with care. For that reason we offer the following advice.

Star projector

Always disconnect the projector from its power source before cleaning and/or performing maintenance.
Cover the projector when not in use.
Do not leave the projector "on" when it is not in use. This will extend the life of the bulb.
For illumination in the dome before and after shows, use a flashlight. To save bulb life, only use the blue bulb to darken or lighten the dome to simulating dusk and dawn.
Use gloves or a cloth to touch or replace bulbs. Oil from your fingers will shorten bulb life. When replacing bulbs, wait until they cool.
Do not turn force-turn the platforms without loosening the pulley on the motor.
Never store the projectors in humid or hot areas.

Cylinders

Avoid touching or removing cylinders from their original platform except when replacing the bulb.
Keep cylinder on its own platform. Never exchange cylinder position.
Dust with a lint-free cloth and without excessive pressure. Only dust when it is extremely dirty.
Never use a liquid to clean them.
Do not touch the internal lens or its supports.

Domes

Set up domes on clean floors that are free of dust.
Avoid stepping on domes with shoes or slippers.
Clean domes with a wet sponge and let dry before inflating.

www.planetariocanopus.com.ar - Planetario Astronómico

Buenos Aires - Argentina