Journey Into Space

 "Tour the Universe"

What is "Journey Into Space"

"Journey Into Space" is a computer graphics platform projected on a large (22' x 28') curved screen bringing the information database of the universe to life in a 3D environment much like an immersive computer game. Loaded with scientific content, "Journey Into Space" brings to Journey Museum visitors a visual perspective of the enormity of the universe while presenting the science of our solar system, the stars and galaxies of the universe.  This planetarium software and computer is made possible solely through a generous donation by Dr. Ernest A. Schabauer a retired physician and amateur astronomer from Rapid City, SD.

"Journey Into Space" visualizes science of vastly different scales – from Earth Science and regional GIS data to large scale structures and cosmology, increasing the usability of our theater and multiplying the opportunities to support your classroom or an institution of higher learning. With minor exceptions, all imagery is from actual NASA missions and land-based observations from major telescopes.  In the "live" presentation mode our audience can virtually travel anywhere, at any time, in the universe. 

Another powerful feature is the ability to "dome-cast" from other national and international planetariums similarly equipped.  For example, the Journey Museum could receive a "dome-cast" from the Gates Planetarium in Denver or the Hayden Planetarium in New York offering a program from an astrophysicist providing Rapid City with world-class science programming.

What is Uniview?

A highly sophisticated computer device, "driven" by a pilot and – in our case – run through a computer. Utilizing images taken by NASA's satellites, it can provide a seamless visualization of the entire known universe. Imagery has very high clarity and a three-dimensional quality that is very appealing to viewers.

What can it do?

Uniview enables its pilot to take audiences through a scripted trip to outer space – but can also respond to an audience member's request to visit a specific site, on demand. Secondly, it can channel the transmission of a class or an event, in real time, that is being broadcast from a planetarium anywhere else in the world. Thirdly, it can play any of the many films created for use by planetariums, which are marketed by companies like Spitz Inc.

How will "Journey Into Space" continue, after its premiere night?

Organizations like the Black Hills Astronomers, science clubs and instructors of science classes will be able to book use of this software, to be piloted by a Journey staffer or another trained person. The museum will create a schedule of viewing times, for the initial "Journey Into Space" flight, and will promote these to the public. Information about ticket prices and the viewing schedule will be made available when they are finalized.  

What linkage does "Journey Into Space" provide to the Journey Museum?

The Journey Museum is the newest member of the Mid-West Planetarium Network, which includes seven planetariums in Minnesota. This provides us with relationships that can help further develop our goals for the program.

How can I help "Journey Into Space" become a success?

Attend the programming and spread the word about this remarkable new opportunity. "Journey Into Space," is the only planetarium experience between Minneapolis and Denver, so it truly is unique. Help us with fundraising by donating to this amazing venue or by providing us with a lead on a donor.  Any amount is welcome and appreciated!