“Having this system means we not only provide high-quality education on STEM topics and planetary science for our members to learn with and from, but also for their families and community where we can host events that bring everyone together to feel curious about the science of the world around us.”  — Vargas, Girls Club Senior Manager of STEAM Programs

The East Village Planetarium at Manhattan’s Lower Eastside Girls Club is driven by a GeoDome Evolver. We first installed the system in 2013, and our continued relationship has helped keep planetarium technology up to date and expand the options for content in the dome with musical performances and artist talks. It’s our honor to contribute to their mission of supporting young women and gender-expansive youth of color throughout New York City in leveraging their inner power to shape a better future for themselves, their community, and the world.

Immersive programming in the planetarium runs on WorldViewer and the OpenPlayground for Astronomy extension, with OpenSpace for astronomy and astrophysics. An OmniFocus 500 series projection system fills the dome with 2400 pixels fulldome at 12,500 lumens. They upgraded to 4K projection in 2020, using the OmniFocus lens they purchased in 2013 and extending the return on that investment – critical for a non-profit. The single-channel projection system means simplified operations, and almost zero maintenance with the new laser light engine.

Ongoing support from The Elumenati meant they’ve stayed current on software, transitioning from Uniview to OpenSpace, and incorporating WorldViewer’s ability to build dome shows from all sorts of existing media. In 2023, we upgraded their computer and worked together to integrate the planetarium’s lighting and audio systems. We’re looking forward to the next decade!

All photo credits: Lower Eastside Girls Club