“Having visited my great grandmother, Omi, in Germany multiple times growing up, I’ve always had a special connection to German baked goods. While I have yet to find the perfect German pretzel in the U.S. or a recipe that yields a decent replica, I have discovered that stollen — a traditional German Christmas bread — is relatively easy to recreate in my own kitchen.” — Alison Tashima, Class of 2024
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Durham (Dunholm O.E.) as a Northumbrian learning settlement originates with its Cathedral; founded in 995 AD as part of a Benedictine monastery. Monks maintained libraries and created an intellectual hub for the English speaking peoples. Fast forward a millennium and we find “DU Coffee Society” which describes itself as a welcoming space for students to learn about coffee making, latte art and each other.
🗣️Did you miss out on Assembly last week? Don’t worry, our Media Observer, Nicole Ireland, was there to catch all the action!
“I know that I am mortal by nature, and ephemeral;
but when I trace at my pleasure the windings to and fro of the heavenly bodies,
I no longer touch Earth with my feet:
I stand in the presence of Zeus himself and take my fill of ambrosia.”
— Ptolemy, “Mathematike Syntaxis” 150 A.D
Galileo Demonstrating His Telescope In 1609
Planetariums in schools and colleges play a central in enhancing astronomy and astrophysics education. They provide immersive experiences that can ignite students’ interest and curiosity about the universe, making complex astronomical concepts more comprehensible and engaging. Observatories do much that but with direct access to telescopes and other observational tools — frequently away from campus — thus allowing them to engage in hands-on learning and real-time data collection.
Establishing research and teaching programs present special occupancy challenges. The cost of high-quality telescopes and equipment, along with the need for a suitable location with minimal light pollution, can be substantial. Additionally, schools require trained staff to guide students in using the equipment and interpreting data. Weather conditions and geographical location also impact the effectiveness of observatories. Despite these hurdles, the educational value of observatories is immense, providing students with unique opportunities to explore the universe and cultivate a passion for scientific inquiry.
The International Building Code includes various sections that address safety requirements relevant to observatories and planetariums. Key parts of the IBC that cover these requirements include:
Chapter 3: Use and Occupancy Classification
Section 303: Assembly Group A. Planetariums and observatories often fall under Assembly Group A due to their function as places where people gather for educational and entertainment purposes. Specific occupancy types and associated requirements will be detailed here.
Chapter 4: Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy
Section 410: Stages, Platforms, and Technical Production Areas. While not specific to planetariums, this section provides guidance on assembly spaces, which may be applicable to the design and safety considerations for the auditorium areas in planetariums.
Chapter 11: Accessibility
Section 1103: Scoping Requirements. This section ensures that buildings are accessible to individuals with disabilities, which is crucial for public facilities like planetariums and observatories.
Section 1104: Accessible Routes. Requirements for accessible paths to ensure ease of access to and within the facility.
Chapter 12: Interior Environment
Section 1203: Ventilation. Adequate ventilation is essential in enclosed spaces like planetariums to ensure air quality and comfort.
Section 1205: Lighting. Ensuring appropriate lighting levels and types, which is crucial in areas like control rooms and observational spaces.
Chapter 15: Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures
Section 1509: Rooftop Structures. Covers the installation and safety of rooftop observatories, which can include structural requirements and access considerations.
Chapter 16: Structural Design
Section 1604: General Design Requirements. Ensures that the structure can support both the static and dynamic loads associated with heavy equipment like telescopes.
Section 1607: Live Loads. Specific load requirements for observatory equipment and public assembly areas.
These chapters collectively ensure that planetariums and observatories are designed and constructed with safety, accessibility, and functionality in mind. For detailed information, it is recommended to refer to the latest edition of the IBC and consult with a professional knowledgeable in building codes and standards.
World Astronomy Day is Saturday, and to celebrate we are showing off some of our favorite pictures of the Albion College Observatory. The Albion College Observatory was constructed from 1883-1884 under the direction of Dr. Samuel Dickie. #ThrowbackThursday#TBT#MyAlbionpic.twitter.com/ixgtAMlP4z
Designing and building a telescope for teaching and light research at a college or university requires a detailed consideration of both the telescope itself and the supporting infrastructure. Here are the central architectural features:
Telescope Structure:
Optical System:
Aperture Size: A medium to large aperture (typically 0.5 to 1.5 meters) to gather sufficient light for educational and light research purposes.
Type of Telescope: Reflecting (Newtonian, Cassegrain, or Ritchey-Chrétien) or refracting telescope, chosen based on specific educational and research needs.
Mount: A sturdy, precise mount (equatorial or alt-azimuth) to support the telescope and ensure smooth tracking of celestial objects.
Enclosure:
Dome or Roll-Off Roof: A protective structure to house the telescope, with a retractable roof or dome to allow for unobstructed viewing.
Material: Weather-resistant materials such as aluminum or fiberglass, designed to protect the telescope from the elements.
Control Systems:
Computerized Controls: For automatic tracking and alignment of celestial objects, often including software for scheduling and managing observations.
Remote Operation Capabilities: Allowing students and researchers to control the telescope remotely for data collection and analysis.
Support Infrastructure:
Observation Deck:
Viewing Platforms: Elevated platforms around the telescope for students to observe through the telescope and participate in hands-on learning.
Safety Features: Railings and non-slip surfaces to ensure safety during nighttime observations.
Control Room:
Location: Adjacent to the telescope enclosure, with visibility to the telescope for direct supervision.
Equipment: Computers, monitors, data storage, and communication equipment to control the telescope and process observational data.
Classroom and Lab Spaces:
Multipurpose Rooms: For lectures, demonstrations, and data analysis related to astronomy and telescope use.
Laboratory Equipment: Spectrometers, cameras, photometers, and other instruments for conducting light research and analyzing data collected from the telescope.
Data Processing and Storage:
Computing Facilities: High-performance computers and software for analyzing astronomical data.
Data Storage Solutions: Secure and scalable storage for large volumes of observational data.
Accessibility Features:
Elevators and Ramps: To provide access to all areas of the facility, including the observation deck and control room.
Adapted Equipment: Adjustable eyepieces and controls to accommodate users with disabilities.
Lighting:
Red Lighting: Low-intensity red lights for night-time use to preserve night vision while allowing safe movement.
Exterior Lighting: Shielded lighting around the facility to minimize light pollution and ensure optimal observing conditions.
By integrating these architectural features, a college or university can create a functional and effective observatory that supports both teaching and light research in astronomy.
Designing and building a planetarium for public use involves careful consideration of various architectural features to ensure functionality, aesthetics, and a positive visitor experience. Here are the central architectural features required:
Dome Structure:
Shape and Size: The dome must be a perfect hemisphere to provide an unobstructed view of the projected sky. The size should be large enough to accommodate the intended audience while ensuring good visibility from all seating positions.
Material: Typically constructed from aluminum or fiberglass, with an inner surface coated to enhance the projection quality.
Projection System:
Projectors: High-resolution digital projectors or traditional optical-mechanical projectors are essential for displaying realistic night skies, astronomical phenomena, and educational shows.
Sound System: High-quality surround sound systems to complement visual projections, enhancing the immersive experience.
Seating Arrangement:
Tilted Seats: Reclined and tiered seating ensures all viewers have an unobstructed view of the dome.
Accessibility: Include spaces for wheelchairs and accessible seating to accommodate all visitors.
Control Room:
Location: Typically located at the rear or side of the planetarium for ease of access and control.
Equipment: Houses computers, projection equipment, sound systems, and control panels for show operations.
Entrance and Exit Points:
Flow Management: Design multiple entrances and exits to manage the flow of visitors efficiently and safely, avoiding congestion.
Accessibility: Ensure entrances and exits are accessible for all, including ramps and elevators as needed.
Lobby and Reception Area:
Ticketing and Information Desks: Central area for purchasing tickets, obtaining information, and gathering before shows.
Displays and Exhibits: Interactive exhibits and displays related to astronomy and science to engage visitors while they wait.
Lighting:
Adjustable Lighting: Capability to control lighting levels to facilitate different show requirements, including complete darkness for optimal viewing.
Safety Lighting: Emergency lighting and pathway lights for safe movement in low-light conditions.
Climate Control:
HVAC Systems: Efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to maintain a comfortable environment for visitors and protect sensitive equipment.
Acoustic Design:
Soundproofing: Proper insulation and soundproofing to ensure external noise does not disrupt shows and internal sound is clear.
Acoustic Treatment: Materials and design features to enhance sound quality and reduce echoes within the dome.
Educational and Interactive Spaces:
Classrooms and Labs: Spaces for educational programs, workshops, and hands-on activities related to astronomy.
Interactive Kiosks: Digital kiosks with interactive content to engage visitors in learning about astronomy and space science.
Accessibility Features:
Elevators and Ramps: For easy access to different levels of the planetarium.
Signage and Information: Clear signage in multiple languages and formats (e.g., braille) to assist all visitors.
Exterior Design:
Aesthetic Appeal: The exterior should be inviting and reflect the scientific and educational purpose of the planetarium.
Landscaping: Incorporate outdoor spaces, such as gardens or open-air exhibits, that complement the planetarium experience.
Parking and Transportation:
Ample Parking: Provide sufficient parking spaces, including spots for buses and accessible parking.
Public Transit Access: Ensure the planetarium is accessible via public transportation for the convenience of all visitors.
These architectural features are essential to create a functional, welcoming, and educational environment in a planetarium for public use.
Michigan Technological University | Houghton County
It has been 20 years since we began following educational facilities construction activity. Starting this month we will examine federal government data together with the best available data about space utilization to enlighten our response to the perfectly reasonable question: “Are we over-building or under-building or building ineffectively”. Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.
California Polytechnic University | San Luis Obispo County
Oulun yliopisto | Pohjois-Pohjanmaa
Tulane School of Architecture Louisiana
University of Michigan | Washtenaw County
Auburn University | Lee County Alabama
University of Kansas School of Architecture |
Douglas County
As reported by the US Department of Commerce Census Bureau the value of construction put in place by May 2025 by the US education industry proceeded at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $135.970 billion. This number does not include renovation for projects under 50,000 square feet and new construction in university-affiliated health care delivery enterprises. Reports are released two months after calendar month. The complete report is available at the link below:
This spend makes the US education facilities industry (which includes colleges, universities, technical/vocational and K-12 schools, most university-affiliated medical research and healthcare delivery enterprises, etc.) the largest non-residential building construction market in the United States after commercial property; and fairly close. For perspective consider total public + private construction ranked according to the tabulation most recently released:
$137.604 billion| Education Facilities
$155.728 billion | Power
$69.625 billion | Healthcare
Keep in mind that inflation figures into the elevated dollar figures. Overall — including construction, energy, custodial services, furnishings, security. etc., — the non-instructional spend plus the construction spend of the US education facilities is running at a rate of about $300 – $500 billion per year.
We typically pick through the new data set; looking for clues relevant to real asset spend decisions. Finally, we encourage the education facilities industry to contribute to the accuracy of these monthly reports by responding the US Census Bureau’s data gathering contractors.
Reconstruction of Ancient Agora
As surely as people are born, grow wealthy and die with extra cash,
there will be a home for that cash to sustain their memory and to steer
the cultural heritage of the next generation in beautiful settings.
This simple method preparing hot coffee evolved from open flame; out on the range. The result is a strong, robust cup that retains grittiness due to the coarse grind and the absence of a filter. Cowboy coffee is more about utility and simplicity rather than precision and refinement, which aligns with the rugged and practical nature of cowboy life. Here’s how it’s typically made:
A pot (often a simple metal or enamel coffee pot), a heat source (campfire or portable stove), and a way to separate the grounds from the liquid (like pouring or using a fine mesh strainer).
Process:
Add coarsely ground coffee to the pot. The amount can vary based on personal preference, but it’s generally a couple of tablespoons of coffee per cup of water.
Add water to the pot. Again, the ratio of coffee to water can be adjusted based on taste preferences.
Place the pot on the heat source and bring it to a near-boil. Watch it carefully to avoid boiling over.
Once it’s heated, let it steep for a few minutes. Some cowboys might toss in a crushed eggshell to help settle the grounds.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a moment to allow the coffee grounds to settle.
Pour the coffee carefully to avoid pouring the grounds into your cup.
Locals swear by it:
“Cowboy coffee ain’t as easy as it looks. It takes some know-how to make it right.” – Unknown
“You can’t compromise with a cup of weak coffee.” – Cowboy Proverb
“There are only two things that a cowboy can’t do without – his horse and his coffee.” – Unknown
“A cowboy’s day starts with coffee and ends with whiskey.” – Unknown
“Life is too short for bad coffee.” – Unknown
“Cowboy coffee: where the grounds are meant to be chewed, not sipped.” – Unknown
“The Liberals are Coming, and They’re Bringing Fancy Coffee” https://t.co/XykfCFYZgVhttps://t.co/exHU6TR2h9
America is changed by flight from miserable Blue States to better Red States—only to import the policies that created the misery they fled from in the first place. pic.twitter.com/OaVVgrTxJr
The U.S National Committee (USNC) of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) serves as the focal point for U.S parties who are interested in the development, promulgation, and use of globally relevant standards for the electrotechnical industry.
In Federalist No. 2, John Jay [1764 Graduate of King’s College; now Columbia University] argues that a strong union under the Constitution will promote peace and prosperity, which are conducive to the spread of religion and morality:
“Providence has been pleased to give this one connected country to one united people—a people descended from the same ancestors, speaking the same language, professing the same religion, attached to the same principles of government, very similar in their manners and customs… These considerations, and many others that might be mentioned, prove, and experience confirms it, that artificial distinctions and separations of [America’s] land are essentially unnatural; and that they may be eradicated and extirpated by the united and advisable efforts of individuals and communities…”
The Federalist Papers discuss themes of morality, social order, and the importance of a cohesive society, they do not explicitly emphasize the importance of Christian faith to the American constitutional republic. The authors generally focused on principles of governance, political theory, and the structure of the proposed Constitution.
“The experience of the sacred is a universal phenomenon,
found in all human societies, however primitive or complex.”
Harvard’s Memorial Chapel, also known as Memorial Church, was designed by the architectural firm Coolidge, Shepley, Bulfinch, and Abbott. The church was dedicated on Armistice Day, November 11, 1932, as a memorial to Harvard alumni who died in World War I.
John Harvard, the namesake of Harvard University, was a 17th-century English minister lived on campus from 1607 – 1638 and conformed to Puritan ideal of dedicating Sundays to worship, prayer, and rest.
New update alert! The 2022 update to the Trademark Assignment Dataset is now available online. Find 1.29 million trademark assignments, involving 2.28 million unique trademark properties issued by the USPTO between March 1952 and January 2023: https://t.co/njrDAbSpwBpic.twitter.com/GkAXrHoQ9T
