Science Center in Easton Debuts New Planetarium Projection System

The Francis Malcolm Science Center of Easton will open its doors for Launch Day on Saturday, April 30th to celebrate the installation of a new projection system in their planetarium theater. Demonstrations will be given every 30 minutes from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Planetarium Director Larry Berz says the system was made possible by a $40,000 contribution from real estate brokers and science enthusiasts Lil Nelms and her husband, Robert Ingram of Houston, Texas. Berz says it provides a full-dome, digital presentation and replaces one that had been in place for more than 30 years.

“Our current optical mechanical system, installed in 1983, has served The Center well over the years, but has been eclipsed by today’s digital technology. We are grateful that these generous supporters have made this much-needed upgrade possible.”

Programs to be included in the Launch Day demonstrations include Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast and Back to the Moon for Good.

Geared toward the younger crowd, Berz says Last Blast tells the story of Rusty Rocket who faces one final mission: an introductory tour of the solar system for a new class of rocket rookies.

Back to the Moon for Good , narrated by actor Tim Allen, takes a journey back to the Apollo missions of the 60’s and 70’s, looks forward to the day we return to the moon, and shares how the 30-million dollar Google X Prize Challenge is providing the incentive to make that happen.

Berz says there will also be refreshments, interactive lobby displays and a giant model rocket launch at noon. Just before the launch, there will be an an official announcement of a 10,000 dollar donation to the Center.

The Francis Malcolm Science Center  at 766 Houlton Road (Route 1A) in Easton provides educational experiences in science, nature, and astronomy to all school-age children, free of charge.

For more information about this event call 488-5451.