Executive Summary

Austin is the only city of the 50 largest cities in U.S. that does not have a planetarium (See Data). The Austin Planetarium has made significant progress toward the goal of creating a world-class Planetarium, Science museum and Technology Center in the downtown area, and is seeking funding to complete a formal feasibility analysis, finalize a land commitment, continue to engage the local community in discussions and focus groups, consult with professional fundraisers on requirements for a capital campaign, hire architectural and museum design assistance, and contract with consultants on planetarium equipment and programming.

Education is the most important function of a planetarium, as reflected in our mission statement. The feedback we have received from teachers, from administrators, and from student scores on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills tests leaves no doubt that there is a critical need in central Texas for the educational opportunities that only a planetarium can provide. This has been underscored by a literature search performed for FOTAP by students in the Community Development and Social Enterprise class at The University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business. The study shows:

• A planetarium program increased student understanding of related topics by 24%.
• A planetarium visit results in an 11% increase in the students’ interest in science as a career.
• In a study of 471 sixth graders on planetary motion, a planetarium proved superior to classroom instruction.
• Trips to a planetarium or science museum are memorable.

Children in a planetarium, image courtesey Morehead Planetarium & Science Center

Strategic Objectives

• Build grassroots support by educating the public about the benefits of a planetarium
• Rally the support of school leaders and educators
• Build interest with business, community and political leaders
• Finalize a commitment on land
• Further study the current and future needs of the Central Texas region
• Develop a final design and scope of the facility
• Seek media coverage
• Commence major fundraising

Business Objectives

• Breaking ground for the Austin Planetarium in 2012, assuming the following events:
• Completion of 115,000 sq. ft. iconic facility design, based on
• Finalization of land commitment, and concurrent with
• Raising capital funds of $45-50 million (including an endowment to smooth cash flow).
• Develop relationships with private individuals, corporations, foundations, public officials and the media to build our reputation and credibility.
• Successfully manage relationships with targeted stakeholders to ensure Aistin Planetarium's meets fundraising goals.