講演情報
[PO2-11]Development of the Open-Source Planetarium Software "Interstellar Console" for Enhanced Operation in Planetariums and Astronomical Facilities.
*Tatsuki Yonezawa1, Takuro Hazama1, Chisato Yamauchi1 (1. Misato Observatory (Japan))
キーワード：
Open-Source、Planetarium Software、Education and Outreach
Planetariums and Astronomical Facilities are tasked with effectively providing high-quality astronomical learning opportunities to visitors. However, conventional proprietary digital planetarium systems often face challenges, including high operational costs, limited customizability, and hardware dependency, which can compromise stable operation. Furthermore, securing affordable, multi-licensed planetarium environments for diversifying outreach needs, such as school visits and staff training, has proven difficult due to the high cost of commercial software.
To overcome these issues, we independently developed the open-source planetarium projection software, "Interstellar Console (ISC)". ISC is designed for high flexibility, scalability, and low-cost operation, independent of specific hardware. It achieves exceptional ease of customization by controlling the general-purpose open-source software Stellarium via a network and is written entirely in script language. Licensed under the GPL, ISC is freely available for use, including commercial purposes.
The adoption of ISC has led to a significant improvement in commentary operability, incorporating staff-requested features such as adjustable UI layouts and a seamless zoom function for celestial objects. Crucially, its hardware-independent nature allows for multiple installations on general-purpose PCs, enabling the low-cost acquisition of backup systems. This capability minimizes operational downtime and opportunity loss during equipment failures.
The software also has broad applicability: it serves as a quality alternative content source for astronomical facilities without planetarium domes during inclement weather, and as a tool for establishing low-cost, active learning environments in schools and community centers. This poster on the background, features, and potential applications of ISC across astronomical facilities and educational settings.