Mike Murray, the Delta College Planetarium’s manager, shares insights on the planetarium’s remodeling process
By: April Hernandez
Bay City – The Delta College Planetarium had its official opening in January, so what makes the remodeled planetarium better? Planetarium Manager Mike Murray talks about the revamped dome screen and the amazing experience it offers.
How has the response been from visitors since the reopening of the Delta College Planetarium with its new look?
Visitors have responded very positively to the shows since reopening. We’ve had a number of repeat visitors coming to see the change, but many came because of the popular titles we have to offer like “Stars of the Pharaohs” and “Mysteries of the Great Lakes.”
Can you share some insights as to what goes into the specialized paint process for the perforated aluminum panels?
Before any painting is done, a temporary scaffold floor has to be set up to provide a level surface to access the dome via a rolling platform. The dome is then vacuumed inside and out, and stains cleaned. The dome panels require a specialized paint created specifically for projection screens. They have an off-white color with a specific reflectivity based on the type of projectors being used. It is applied with a spray gun in a very fine mist at a shallow angle.
What inspired the decision for the screen repaint project?
Projection screens should be vacuumed and cleaned about every five years, but the Delta College Planetarium’s dome had not seen a major cleaning or repainting since its original installation in 1997. As such, there were large swaths of gray dust that had built up over parts of the dome, and the framework behind the screen was showing through the perforations.
In what ways do you believe the brighter and more colorful imagery gives an overall better experience for visitors?
A major goal of the dome experience is to create a sense of realism for the visitor. The human eye is instantly drawn to imperfections, whether it be dark patches, streaky stains, or beams showing through the screen. Cleaning and painting not only removes these imperfections, but allows imagery to feel bright, crisp and clear.
How challenging was it to manage the reopening process?
There was a lot of cleanup to do after the painting process. Three days were required to remove the scaffolding, and another two days to vacuum and clean the floor, seats, walls, projection gallery, control room and equipment.
Are there any unique features or aspects of the dome theater that you are particularly excited about?
The Great Lakes Bay Area is extremely fortunate to have a world-class planetarium like this. It allows for the performance of award-winning content of all types – from astronomy to nature, music and art to family science adventures. The modern equipment and dome are wonderful tools, but it’s the staff and support from Delta College that makes the magic happen, the inspiration of exploration and discovery that reaches all ages and diverse backgrounds.
Whether you’re a returning visitor or discovering the Delta College Planetarium for the first time, there’s a world of wonder waiting to be explored under its newly refurbished dome. Visit the planetarium’s website or call (989) 667-2260 to embark on your cosmic adventure today!
