When it comes to what can be viewed in the theater, the sky is definitely not the limit. The planetarium's presentation technology also can project moving images of the human brain for medical students or scenes from the Sistine Chapel for art historians, among other things. And by electronic conferencing with other institutions, astronomy students in the planetarium or in remote classroom locations will be able to see celestial scenes on the other side of the globe and interact with instructors there, says John Kielkopf, professor of physics and director of the Moore Observatory. Kielkopf is also one of the technical advisers for the new planetarium particularly involved in its programing. In addition to the planetarium theater, a semicircular, 55-seat classroom and the lobby will offer interactive exhibits.
Visitors can also purchase science gifts and U of L mementos in the adjacent gift shop.
A courtyard will provide yet another learning space. The architectural firm of Louis and Henry, Louisville, which designed the original Rauch Planetarium, is working on the new one, too. It sits on Belknap campus between the School of Music and Strickler Hall, just blocks from 1318 South Brook where astronomer Edwin Hubble's family once lived in the early part of the last century. The planetarium memorializes Rabbi Joseph Rauch, a university trustee from 1933 to 1946 and leader of Congregation Adath Israel for 44 years. As the planetarium's truncated cone rises toward the sky during construction, a planning and advisory committee comprised of 38 university and community leaders is continuing its efforts to ensure maximum use and impact of the new world-class facility.