The First Native Portable Planetarium!
Star Knowledge is a very integral part of traditional knowledge for the Dakota and Ojibwe people. Wicoie Nandagikendan has integrated the use of the Star Lab, a portable planetarium, into its curriculum. The Star Lab and four viewing cylinders are used to teach star knowledge along with math and science skills.
The four viewing cylinders are-
Earth
From within the Star Lab, the continents and waters of the earth are viewable. This cylinder is used to teach respect for our planet, where we live, perspective of scale, what is land and what is water (on the cylinder), who lives on the land and who lives in the water, the names of the continents, and different modes of transportation.
Solar System
On the inside of the Star Lab, the planets of the solar system line up beside the sun. This cylinder can be used to teach about the different celestial bodies found within our galaxy, how many planets there are, what the sun is and why it is important, perspective of scale from the earth to the sun and the earth to other planets, as well as the physical differences of the planets and why we live on the one that we do.
Star Field
Using the Star Field cylinder, the night sky is replicated within the Star Lab. The cylinder can be rotated to match what the sky looks like at your latitude. This cylinder can be used to teach what the night sky looks like, how many stars there are, the daily and seasonal movement of celestial bodies and in particular the moon, what different constellations look like, and why the stars are important for navigation as well as seasonal activities.
Native Constellations
This cylinder projects constellation pictures from different tribes inside the Star Lab. Topics of instruction include the different animals of the constellations and their names in Dakota/Ojibwe, songs in the language that involve the different animals, stories for the different constellations and which tribe they come from and how different people have different stories for the same clusters of stars.
If you’re organization or community is interested in having a star lab presentation, there are several options available. All options include set up and break down of Star Lab Equipment, instructor, lessons and handouts. When possible, a customized program can be developed to meet your needs.
Sit in an inflatable Star Dome Planetarium to see the night sky rising and setting. Look for constellations. See the constellations for Native Star Stories. When snow is on the ground, hear traditional star stories.
| Option 1:
For small groups |
An instructor will bring the Star lab to your site for one presentation. The program will last up to 45 minutes for up to 30 students. Instructor can arrive as early as 9:00 a.m. Instructor must be able to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the event to set up. | Cost:
$150 + mileage |
| Option 2:
For mid size groups |
An instructor will bring the Star lab to your site. We can provide up to 3 classes of 45 minutes for 30 students each. Instructor must be able to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the event to set up. | Cost:
$300 + mileage |
| Options 3:
Large Groups like family nights |
An instructor will bring the Star lab to your site. Each program will last approximately 15 – 40 minutes depending on the size of the group. Instructor must be able to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the event to set up. | Cost:
$300 + mileage |
| Option 4:
Over 45 minutes from Minneapolis. |
An instructor will bring the Star lab to your site. We can provide up to 3 classes of 45 minutes for 30 students each or shorter classes for larger groups of people. Instructor must be able to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the event to set up. | Cost:
$300 + mileage Overnight lodging may be required. |
Important information: Room size for the star dome must have a least 11’ ceilings and 21’ floor space in both directions. The dome is intended for inside use only and must be able to be in a quiet space. Generally, presentations do not start before 9:00 a.m. Invoices must be paid within 30 days.
For more information or to arrange a visit with the night sky, call Betty Jane Schaaf at 612-721-4246 or e-mail her at bettyjaneschaaf@gmail.com.
