THE PLANETARIUM...
The Planetarium of Denver Public Schools is located on site at Steele School, providing a unique learning experience on space and science for teachers as well as students. The Planetarium offers 15 different star programs under a 14' dome, as well as a variety of supplemental teaching and resource materials on all aspects of science and astronomy for teachers. During the 1999-2000 school year, the Planetarium served over six thousand students! Attendance at the Planetarium included Denver Public School students from preschool through 6th grade, as well as Special Education Classes, Boy and Girl Scout Organizations, and Parent Education groups.
As part of Steele's Science curriculum, 1st semester Grade 5 students participate in a simple physics class once a week, and 2nd semester Grades 3-5 students (who are identified challenge and gifted students), participate in a simple physics/rocketry class.
LASER DISC PROJECTOR!
Through the generosity of US West, the Planetarium received a gift of $15,000 to purchase a long awaited-for Laser Disc Projection Machine, and some very impressive laser discs.
When it is fully integrated with the Planetarium's programming, this Laser Projection Machine will be a powerful teaching tool with fabulous moving images, such as swooping down over the surfaces of Venus and Mars, or watching the violent effects of a massive black hole embedded in the center of an active galaxy. Our laser discs use actual NASA footage, computer generated images, and amazing artistic renderings of strange and exotic celestial objects. It is a truly extraordinary addition to Steele's Planetarium!
