CH 3 Zee
CH 3 Zee
CHAPTER 3
Studying local and international observatories and museums
Before proposing a design for an observatory museum, studies have been
conducted on museums with similar conditions and characteristics. Analyzing
successful aspects of existing museums can greatly assist in the design of the new
observatory museum.
Planetarium Dome: The dome has a diameter of 18 meters (60 feet) and a
height of 30 meters (98 feet). It is equipped with an aluminum dome and
includes 249 aluminum panels with ventilation openings.
Materials: Reinforced Concrete (RC), Aluminum Composite Panels, Stainless
Steel, PC Sunshades
Audio System: The planetarium uses the NEXO 5.1CH HD Audio System.
Wooden panels are used for the acoustic wall designs.
Structure: The building has two levels, with a basement and a ground floor
divided by different elevation levels.
Transportation: The site is accessible by rental cars, private cars, and
motorcycles.
History: The observatory museum in Nay Pyi Taw was designed to be a
modern and beautiful facility, in line with the city's metropolitan
characteristics. To gain experience and support in the design phase, visits were
made to planetariums in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, where
meetings and consultations with experts were held. For the exhibition
equipment, state-of-the-art and modern systems were imported in a timely
manner from France, with installation led by T&S Installation Co., Ltd. from
France, involving foreign engineers.
Environment: Located within the Nay Pyi Taw Zoological Garden, the
museum is surrounded by lush, green trees, creating a serene environment. Its
location on the old Yangon-Mandalay road makes it convenient for visitors to
access.
Curator
Deputy Curator
Toilet
Public
Planetarium
Entrance Lobby
Control
Exhibition
Machine
Office
Room
Service
Zone
Admin
Zone
Public
Zone
Accommodatio
No Quantity Capacity (sq-ft) Area (sq-ft)
n
I. Public Zone
1 Planetarium 1 163@27 4,500
2 Exhibition 1 3,630
3 Lobby 1 1830
4 Ticket Box 1 75
5 Gift Shop 1 200
6 Toilets 2 745
Sub- Total 13410
II. Administration
Zone
7 Staff Office 1 350
8
Manager’s
8 1 250
Room
9 File Room 1 90
Sub-Total 690
10 Control Room 1 360
Production
11 1 300
Room
12 Machine Room 1 80
Air- condition
13 1 700
Room
14 Storage 1 300
15 Kitchen 1 227
Sub-Total 1967
IV. Rest Area
16 Cafeteria 1 2430
V. Circulation 985
Total Floor
17,052
Area
Circula-
tion Area
Rest Area
Public Zone
Admin Zone
Service Zone
Rest Area
Circulation Area
Service
Zone
Public
Admin Zone
Zone
3.1.6. Planetarium
3.1.10. Asteroid
.
3.1.16. Star Ball Projector
16
3.2.1. History
The planetarium building was originally constructed as a Youth Training
Center under the Department of Sports and Physical Education. This project was
undertaken as part of the Japan- Myanmar collaborative initiative (GICA), with the
construction provided by Japan. The project was divided into two phases:
Phase 1: Managed and constructed by the Japanese government through the
Hagemara Corporation.
Phase 2: Funded and constructed based on a design provided by the
Department of Sports and Physical Education.
Curator
Deputy
Service
Zone
Admin
Zone
Public
Zone
18
Toilet
VIP Room
VIP Entrance
Planetarium
Lobby
Entrance Planetarium
Exhibition
Machine
Office
Room
Accommodatio
No Quantity Capacity (sq-ft) Area (sq-ft)
n
I. Public Zone
1 Planetarium 1 [email protected] 5751.7
2 Exhibition 1 1698.26
3 Lobby 1 600
4 Toilets 2 35 70
5 Ticket Counter 1 72
Sub- Total 8191.9
II. Administration
Zone
7 Staff Office 1 430.6
Manager’s
8 1 110
Room
9 VIP Room 1 760
Sub-Total 1300.6
III Service Zone
10 Control Room 1 130.6
12 Machine Room 1 796
Sub-Total 1609
IV Circulation 1383.8
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Area
Total Floor
12485.3
Area
3.2.5. Entrance
Circulation Area
Service
Zone
Public Zone
Admin Zone
Service Zone
Circulation Area
Admin
Zone
Public
Zone
Location: 1300s, Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL Completion Date: May 20,
1930
Area: 8 acres
Architect: Ernest Grunsfeld, Jr.
Type of Building: Two-storeyed single building
Construction System: Reinforced Concrete (RC) structure, Glass roofing, and
RC roofing Material: RC, steel, glass
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3.3.1. History
The Adler Planetarium, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a landmark institution
dedicated to the exploration of astronomy and astrophysics. Here's a brief history of
the Adler Planetarium:
Founding and Early Years (1930s-1940s): The Adler Planetarium was founded
in 1930 by Chicago businessman and philanthropist Max Adler. It was the first
planetarium in the United States and the second in the world, following the
opening of the Zeiss Planetarium in Jena, Germany, in 1926. The planetarium
was built to serve as a center for public education about astronomy and to
promote the scientific study of the cosmos. It was designed by the architectural
firm of Schmidt, Garden, and Martin in the Art Deco style.
Expansion and Growth (1950s-1960s): Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the
Adler Planetarium continued to grow its educational programs and expand its
facilities. The addition of new exhibits and advancements in planetarium
technology helped establish it as a leading center for astronomy education.
In 1954, the Adler introduced the "Star Rider" projector, which was a
significant advancement in planetarium projection technology.
Modernization and Technological Advances (1970s-1990s): The 1970s and
1980s saw further modernization efforts, including the installation of more
advanced projection systems and the development of new exhibit spaces. This
period also marked a shift towards incorporating computer technology and
interactive displays.
In 1990, the Adler Planetarium underwent a major renovation, which included
the addition of new galleries and improved facilities for visitors.
Recent Developments (2000s-Present): The early 2000s saw the opening of
several new exhibits and the introduction of cutting-edge digital projection
systems. The Adler's advanced " Star Rider " and "Space Visualization
Laboratory" provide visitors with immersive experiences of the universe.
The planetarium continues to focus on engaging the public with a variety of
educational programs, including live shows, hands-on exhibits, and outreach
initiatives. It also plays a role in scientific research and public policy related to space
and astronomy.
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Accommodatio
No Quantity Capacity (sq-ft) Area (sq-ft)
n
I. Public Zone
1 Sky Theater 1 199@15 2,985
2 Exhibition 1 55,000
Star
3 1 239@15 3,585
Rider Theater
4 Rainbow Lobby 1 1,400
5 North Terrace 1 899
6 South Terrace 1 3,600
Dome
7 1 2,500
Observatory
8 Public Toilet 1800
9 Sky Pavillion 1 40,000
Sub- Total 111,769
II. Administration
Zone
10 Office 1 1258
III. Rest Area
11 Galileo's Café 1 5,130
12 Gift Shop 1 1,220
Education and
IV.
Research Zone
13 Classroom 1 600
Community
14 1,300
Design Lab
Sub-Total 1900
Circulation and
V. 1 11,058
Others
Total Floor
132,335
Area
25
Educa-
tionCirculation
& Area
Re-
search
Zone
Admin
Zone
Public Zone
Admin Zone
Education & Research Zone
Circulation Area
Public
Zone
3.3.4. Cafeteria
27
Service
Zone
Admin
Zone
Public
Zone
Toilet
Cafe
Sky Theatre
Lobby
Entrance Star Theatre
Exhibition
Class Room Observatory
Technical Study
T-Projection Equipment: The Alder Planetarium originally featured a
mechanical star projector, which used lenses and mirrors to project images of stars
and celestial objects onto the dome. Technology: The projection system was a
significant advancement for its time, providing a more realistic and immersive
experience compared to earlier planetarium technologies.
Acoustic Design:
Sound Management: The acoustic design of the Alder Planetarium ensures that sound
quality is optimal for both educational and entertainment purposes. The building's
30
shape and materials are selected to manage sound reflections and enhance audio
clarity.
Sound Systems: The planetarium is equipped with a sound system designed to
complement the visual projections and provide an immersive experience for the
audience.
HVAC System: The HVAC system is designed to regulate temperature and humidity
within the planetarium. This is crucial for maintaining the performance of the
projection equipment and ensuring visitor comfort.
Energy Efficiency: The HVAC system incorporates early energy-efficient
technologies, though modern upgrades have been made to enhance performance and
reduce energy consumption.
3.4. Study of Rose Center for Earth and Space (Hayden Planetarium)
Location: 79th Street Central Park West, New York, United States Completion
Date: February 19, 2000
Area: 2.85 acres
Architects: James Stewart Polshek, Polshek & Partners Type of Building:
Single-storeyed building Construction System: Glass and steel
Material: Glass, Steel
Aesthetics: The building features a prominent modern form with a glass cube
and a large sphere inside it, which defines its architectural expression.
3.4.1. Background History
31
Planning and Design: The Rose Center was conceived as a way to enhance the
AMNH's offerings in astrophysics and Earth sciences. The design of the center
was the result of a collaboration between the museum and architectural firm
Polshek Partnership (now Ennead Architects). The planning phase began in
the early 1990s.
Funding: The project received substantial funding from philanthropists,
including a significant donation from the Rose family, which is why the center
is named in their honor.
Construction: The Rose Center broke ground in 1999, and construction was
completed in 2002. Its striking design features a glass cube that houses the
Hayden Planetarium, which is a central part of the center.
Accommodatio
No Quantity Capacity (sq-ft) Area (sq-ft)
n
I. Public Zone
Hall of the
1 1 50,000
Universe
Planetarium
2 1 800
Shop
3 Cosmic Shop 1 600
Big Bang
4 1 1,643
Theater
Cosmic
5 40,750
Pathway
Space Theater
6 (Hayden 1 429@14 5,877
Planetarium)
Black Hole
7 1 3,200
Theater
8 Rose Gallary 1 35,000
Hall of the
9 1 48,000
Planet Earth
10 Rose Terrace 1 47,114
II Admin Zone
11 Office 1 1358
Education and
III 1
Research Zone
12 Rose Center 1 2,400
32
Classroom
Circulation and
IV. 1 62,274
Others
Total Floor
1 333,500
Area
Circula-
tion Area
Educa-
tion &
Research
Admin
Zone
Zone
Public Zone
Admin Zone
Education & Research Zone
Circulation Area
Public
Zone
Service
Zone
Admin
Zone
Public
Zone
Toilet
Blackhole
Theatre
Space
Theatre
Hall of the
Universe
Cosmic
Entrance Pathway
Hall of
Planet Earth Rose Center
Big Bang
Clssroom
The Rose Center, housed within a glass cube, provides a clear understanding
of both its exterior expression and the interior exhibits. It showcases the wonders of
the universe in an impressive manner. During the day, the glass cube allows natural
light to enter. At night, the building’s lighting is well-designed to make it stand out.
The exhibits are advanced and effectively convey the intended knowledge. Gift shops
are also available for visitors. Although the exhibits are good, they lack completeness.
There are no telescopes provided for stargazing at night. Additionally, there are some
needs in terms of landscaping.
Glass and Steel: Material Aesthetics: The combination of glass and steel in the
building’s construction contributes to its sleek, modern appearance. The glass cube
creates a sense of lightness and transparency, while the steel structure provides the
necessary support and structural integrity. Architectural Expression: The materials
used enhance the building’s modernist aesthetic and reflect contemporary
architectural trends, focusing on minimalism and clarity.
Table 3.5. Comparative Study and Evaluation of Planetariums Both Local and
Abroad
Case Case
Comparative Analysis Case Study Case Study Study Study
(Local and Foreign) (Local 1) (Local 2) (Foreign (Foreign
1) 2)
Adequate Space for
2 2 3 3
Parking Area
Constructed in a place
where the beauty of the
1 1 3 3
surroundings can be better
appreciated
Receiving Natural
Lighting in Areas Within
2 3 2 3
the Building that Require
Illumination
Compatibility between
Planetarium Dome Size 2 1 2 3
and Seating Capacity
Prominent Building
3 3 1 1
Expression
Provision of Adequate
2 1 3 3
Recreation Area