University of Findlay’s Newhard Planetarium to Receive Facelift

University of Findlay’s Newhard Planetarium will enter the second of three phases of modernization after receiving $122,605 in grant money from the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. Phase two includes replacing the current structure with a seamless dome, and will be the first substantial update the planetarium has seen since 1969.

The University of Findlay’s planetarium provides a space for faculty, students, local schools, and community members to learn more about science, technology, engineering, math, chemistry, and outer space. The seamless dome will complement the new projector that was purchased during phase one, and will take three to six months to complete. The grant proposal reads, “The existing dome, unfortunately shows its age, with divots and seams distorting projections, and it does not allow the University to take full advantage of the capabilities of the planetarium’s new projector.” The new dome will better showcase programs that include, “Deep Space Science,” “Chemistry and Light,” and “Modern Space Technology.”

Once phase two is completed, the focus will be shifted to phase three. The third phase will be funded through donations, and will result in the purchase of a new sound system. Phase three is estimated at $50,000. The goal for the University is to have the dome modernization completed and ready for events leading up to the next total solar eclipse on August 8, 2024. UF plans to develop regular community outreach events to further enrich the minds of community members during the heightened interest of the cosmos.

For more information on the University of Findlay’s Newhard Planetarium visit the planetarium’s website. If you are interested in making a donation, please use the University’s Give Campus page and select Planetarium as the designation.

*Last updated 12/08/22