What's Happening?
Marietta College, located in Ohio, is home to the Anderson Hancock Planetarium and the Gurley Observatory, providing students and the community with opportunities to explore outer space. The Anderson Hancock Planetarium, opened in 2009, is named after emeriti physics professors Dr. Les Anderson and Dr. Whit Hancock. It features a 4,400 square-foot facility with a Jasulevicus Gallery showcasing astronomical photos and artifacts from NASA, and the Putnam Family Theater equipped with a Goto Chronos hybrid system for star projection. The Gurley Observatory, built around 1882, houses a fourteen-inch Meade LX200GPS Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and is primarily used by students enrolled in astronomy courses. The planetarium hosts monthly shows open to the public, enhancing educational outreach and community engagement.
Why It's Important?
The presence of the Anderson Hancock Planetarium and Gurley Observatory at Marietta College underscores the institution's commitment to science education and community involvement. These facilities provide unique educational opportunities for students, fostering interest in astronomy and related fields. By offering public shows, the planetarium serves as a cultural and educational resource for the local community, promoting scientific literacy and engagement. The observatory's restricted access to students ensures focused academic use, supporting hands-on learning and research. This initiative not only enriches the college's academic offerings but also strengthens its role as a community hub for scientific exploration.
What's Next?
Marietta College plans to continue hosting monthly shows at the Anderson Hancock Planetarium, inviting the public to engage with astronomy and space science. The college may explore further collaborations with scientific organizations to enhance its educational programs and expand community outreach. Potential upgrades to the observatory's equipment could be considered to support advanced research and student projects. As interest in space exploration grows, Marietta College's facilities could play a pivotal role in inspiring future generations of scientists and astronomers.
Beyond the Headlines
The development of the planetarium and observatory at Marietta College reflects broader trends in educational institutions investing in STEM facilities to attract students and enhance learning experiences. These facilities contribute to the cultural and intellectual fabric of the community, offering a platform for public engagement with science. The integration of historical artifacts from NASA into the planetarium's exhibits highlights the intersection of education and history, providing a tangible connection to the legacy of space exploration.
