“THREE million dollars for an overhead projector at a planetarium. My friends, do we need to spend that kind of money?” So said John McCain in last week’s presidential debate, aiming to highlight what he sees as Barack Obama’s would-be profligacy.
McCain was talking about a proposed upgrade of the projection system at the not-for-profit Adler Planetarium in Chicago, Illinois – the state Obama represents in the Senate.
Planetarium managers were bemused, given that their request for federal funding has not been approved. “I was really shocked,” says Sarah Beck. Nor is it McCain’s first swipe: in earlier speeches, he has referred to “planetariums and other foolishness”.
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The Adler is trying to raise money to refurbish its 78-year-old Sky Theatre. It will cost $3 to $5 million to replace the existing projector (pictured, below left).
Scientists have defended the planetarium, particularly . “It seems to have touched a nerve, especially with those who have worked their entire lives in science education,” says Beck.
US Election 2008 – Science and technology are at the heart of many of the issues facing the candidates. Find out more in our special report.
