The Glendale Community College Board of Trustees approved a $1 million proposal for the purchase of a Sky Vision projection system for the new Cimmarusti Science Center Digital Theater on Sept. 16.

The new projection system will allow the college to have the best affordable teaching planetarium. The stars projected by the digital system produce clearer and brighter colors, allowing for a more realistic image. The system is also easy to handle and has software that allows for scientific accuracy.

The system comes with a large collection of visual materials that can be helpful in teaching astronomy classes. In addition, these materials will be readily available to the astronomy classes before the installation of the dome is complete.

The Sky Vision projection unit, provided by Sky-Skan Board Inc., includes projectors, cove lighting, Sky Vision content, and a 30 foot planetarium dome. The project will total $1,076,077, including sales tax, installation, and a four-year warranty.

It is anticipated that the installation of the system will be completed for the Fall 2003 semester.

In an effort to ease parking shortages, a new parking plan was also approved by the board, which allows for more parking spaces for staff members. In an agreement with the First Congregational Church, staff will now be allowed to park off campus at the church facilities and be shuttled to campus.