Planetarium Star Projectors

[SpitzSTP]

Anybody need a historic Zeiss and a spare parts machine from Boston? (re-posted from another site). I have no more room at the Inn.

"Fiske planetarium is remodeling and we expected to get rid of our
Zeiss Model VI projector, as well as the ex-Boston Zeiss projector parts
we have stored in boxes. We were surprised by some interest in
the projector so thought it worth announcing what we are doing.

Dr. Doug Duncan, Fiske Director
http://fiske.colorado.edu"

[m2b]

Are you sure you wouldn't want this??????

Mr. SpitzSTP is one of the greatest guys in the world. Not only instrumental in getting me my planetarium projector, but finding all kinds of extra "good junk" with which to play. He even got me hooked on lasers by giving me the parts for a JHE planetarium laser system.

I'd consider going in on this with you if your interested and if they would even consider us.

Three cheers for Mr. Spitz

[SpitzSTP]

Thanks for the kind words that is worth more than gold to me. Speaking of generousity, if it weren't for you I wouldn't have these nearly-restored projectors as I have greatly benefited from your expertise. Actually, I DO wish I (we) could get the Zeiss and the parts machine as it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, however it will require REAL gold (the kind that matters less to me) but the rest of the planet really digs the stuff. I suppose it wouldn't hurt to make an inquiry if they haven't already locked in a buyer and allow destiny to takes its course. Send a PM if you're really serious about it. However, last time I checked my gold vault it was somewhat devoid of gold, except for the kind that matters the most.

Sad thing, by the time these star projectors get disassembled and moved around a few times alot of damage occurs, parts get lost or stolen for souveniers. The chance they will ever operate again reduces exponentially unless a person is willing to invest alot of time. Some want them just as a static display, never to operate again. While that is amusing to a degree, it's a bit like taxidermy animals they were ALOT more interesting when they were alive. What I do know is that if we had this Zeiss it would be restored to its former glory, that's for sure.

http://www.explore-boulder-colorado....anetarium.html

[DZ]

I was just at the Fiske a couple months ago and what a fine instrument it is. Sad to see it get retired, would sure look great at my house, but the Mrs. probably wouldn't approve and the kids would just climb all over it.

I was impressed with how well equipped this theater is, from what I understand they are going full dome video without a new planetarium, which is unfortunate in my opinion.

[m2b]

Yes, I will never understand why everyone is so eager to get rid of the classic star projector as it produces a most magnificent sky.

[SpitzSTP]

Ok I surrender. I sent a message to the Fiske.

[SpitzSTP]

Newly-fabricated base plate for the AVI Omniscan. Jason Smith, local prototype machinist did an excellent job on it. I needed another 8 inches of lift to allow the umbilical to freely move under the rack. This unit is sized the same as the rack and adds weight to the bottom for added stability. The rack now becomes optional although it remains useful as a dust shield and to keep finger pokers from poken der mittens. I don't want to scratch it up and still has new aluminum smell. I will add the casters to the bottom then get it under the rack and bolt everything up. Good thing I had the waterjet place pre-cut the sixteen bolt holes for caster plates it would be hard to hand-drill that many holes in .75 aluminum plate.

[SpitzSTP]

Adding wheels to it. The side plates come off for access.

[SpitzSTP]

Here is a good example of what saddens me to see. A Spitz A4 planetarium projector on www.govdeals.com. The starball is badly dented and the instrument was apparently removed in one piece by someone who didn't give a sh*t. The planet cage smashed beyond repair (the cage itself can cost upwards of 4,000.00 to replace, IF you can even find one. The whole projector laying on a concrete floor with support legs going every which way. This projector cost > $150,000 new, now it is a hopeless wreck. When Ron, I and friends remove these from planetariums, we take a couple of days to remove EACH piece, one-by-one and wrap the parts in about a hundred bucks worth of bubble wrap. This one really got raped.

[SpitzSTP]

On a happier note, finally located these 40KVDC field-installable high voltage connectors for the Saint STP from Connectronics in Toledo. Just what the Dr. ordered. Should have them by Christmas.