DSU's Wiley Planetarium receives substantial federal grant
Cleveland, MS (08/30/2024) — Contact: Christy Riddle FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4336
Email: criddle@deltastate.edu
DSU's Wiley Planetarium receives substantial federal grant
CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University is pleased to announce that the Roy L. and Clara Belle Wiley Planetarium has been awarded a $500,000 U.S. Congressional earmark, with funds secured through the support of Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith and Roger Wicker. The grant, which officially begins on September 1, will enable the planetarium to undergo a significant technological upgrade, ensuring its continued role as a vital STEM resource for the Mississippi Delta region.
The Wiley Planetarium, with its rich history of engaging both Delta State students and the wider rural community since 1976, is set to receive a state-of-the-art 3D laser projector system. This much-needed upgrade will replace the planetarium's current projectors, which have become technologically obsolete and are nearing the end of their operational life. The new projectors, alongside upgraded computing systems, will enhance the planetarium's ability to produce in-house content, offering an immersive educational experience akin to those found in leading museums and universities nationwide. The upgrades will be paid for 100% by this grant from the United States Department of Education.
The Wiley Planetarium is the only university-based planetarium in Mississippi and one of only three public planetariums in the state. It has faced operational uncertainty over the past five years due to aging technology. This grant will ensure the planetarium continues to serve as a key STEM learning resource for both post-secondary and K-12 students in the Mississippi Delta.
"We are so thankful to our Mississippi Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith and Roger Wicker for supporting our efforts to ensure Wiley Planetarium's longevity and extend its educational mission for Delta students and communities," said Dr. Maria Weber, Assistant Professor of Physics and Director of the Wiley Planetarium.
The planned upgrades will not only extend the operational life of the planetarium but will also expand its educational reach. With the new 3D laser projection capabilities, students will have the opportunity to engage with interdisciplinary content that goes beyond traditional astronomy lessons. From visualizing complex biological structures to exploring the intricacies of medical imaging, the enhanced planetarium will offer unique learning experiences that are currently unavailable in standard classroom settings.
Beyond the university, the Wiley Planetarium continues to be a valuable resource for the wider Delta community. Each year, the planetarium welcomes thousands of visitors, including over twenty K-12 school groups, afterschool programs, and scout troops. The upgrades are expected to increase attendance further, with the planetarium poised to attract even more visitors from across the region.
Weber said, "One of my greatest joys is sharing the universe with anyone who steps into Wiley Planetarium. I'm privileged to continue its 40-year legacy and serve as a steward for our unique educational venue."
Dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Sciences Dr. Vicki Bingham said, "I am excited about the many educational opportunities this upgrade to the Wiley Planetarium will bring to our students and the surrounding communities. I am so thankful to Dr. Maria Weber for her passion to share the universe and to Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith and Roger Wicker for their support in securing these funds."
While this grant represents a significant step forward, the Wiley Planetarium has long-term goals to further enhance its facilities. The planetarium operates almost entirely on grants and donations, and continued community support will be essential to achieving these goals. For more information on the planetarium, including upcoming shows and opportunities for support, visit https://www.deltastate.edu/planetarium/.
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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
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