There are several steps or parts to the production of a show. First of all, a suitable subject must be found. This is the most fundamental part, as it sets the parameters for the whole project. The second step is to develop concepts for both the visual and aural components of the show. The visual concept is what will actually be shown on the dome of the planetarium. It describes the sequence of actions on screen, as well as which button in the operators console will have what effect. The aural concept describes what the presenter will say during the show. It consists of a script, which the presenter has on screen as a guide during the presentation. The next step is the actual programming. This implies programming each button so that it will function as it is supposed to, as well as making the single buttons work together fluently. Afterwards the show and script are put together and each is in turn adjusted to the other. After this, the show is almost complete. Some fine-tuning of the programming is usual to make the show visually more appealing. Each presenter usually introduces the content of the script in an individual style, and adds on or leaves out certain bits of information. 3.1 Finding a Subject A good subject is the most vital part of any show. Therefore, finding the right subject can be tricky. There are several criteria for what makes a good subject. First of all it has to be based on an interesting theme. A subject that is interesting to all ages is highly preferable, as families often visit the observatory with smaller children, as well as adults who are more familiar with space. The second criterion is the general complexity of the subject. If it is too complex, it will be very difficult to explain and fully understand, even to an adult, within the 40 to 50 minutes that a presentation lasts. Also, not all visitors are familiar with space and its nature. Therefore, a subject must be comprehensible and based only on minimal knowledge on astronomy. Another limiting factor is the extent of the subject. 50 minutes is a very short timeframe. And in the endlessness of space it is very easy to find a subject, which simply cannot be covered in its entirety within these 50 minutes.
There are several steps or parts to the production of a show. First of all, a suitable subject must be found. This is the most fundamental part, as it sets the parameters for the whole project. The second step is to develop concepts for both the visual and aural components of the show. The visual concept is what will actually be shown on the dome of the planetarium. It describes the sequence of actions on screen, as well as which button in the operators console will have what effect. The aural concept describes what the presenter will say during the show. It consists of a script, which the presenter has on screen as a guide during the presentation. The next step is the actual programming. This implies programming each button so that it will function as it is supposed to, as well as making the single buttons work together fluently. Afterwards the show and script are put together and each is in turn adjusted to the other. After this, the show is almost complete. Some fine-tuning of the programming is usual to make the show visually more appealing. Each presenter usually introduces the content of the script in an individual style, and adds on or leaves out certain bits of information. 3.1 Finding a Subject A good subject is the most vital part of any show. Therefore, finding the right subject can be tricky. There are several criteria for what makes a good subject. First of all it has to be based on an interesting theme. A subject that is interesting to all ages is highly preferable, as families often visit the observatory with smaller children, as well as adults who are more familiar with space. The second criterion is the general complexity of the subject. If it is too complex, it will be very difficult to explain and fully understand, even to an adult, within the 40 to 50 minutes that a presentation lasts. Also, not all visitors are familiar with space and its nature. Therefore, a subject must be comprehensible and based only on minimal knowledge on astronomy. Another limiting factor is the extent of the subject. 50 minutes is a very short timeframe. And in the endlessness of space it is very easy to find a subject, which simply cannot be covered in its entirety within these 50 minutes.