The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is set to unveil a new planetarium in spring 2024, a significant addition located on the west side of the Museum of the North. This 65-seat facility is made possible by a generous donation of $7.4 million from Walt and Marita Babula, marking the largest single donation in UAF’s history. The planetarium will bear the Babulas’ name in recognition of their contribution, which UAF officials describe as pivotal for the institution’s educational mission.
Interim Chancellor Mike Sfraga expressed gratitude for the Babulas’ support, stating, “Aspirations and grand visions like our new planetarium can sometimes seem out of reach. We are so grateful for the partnership that has enabled Walt and Marita’s vision to be realized and create this extraordinary place that will educate and inspire Alaskans and museum visitors for generations to come.”
Community Support and Educational Impact
The planetarium project has received additional funding from several other sources, including $500,000 from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust and $250,000 from longtime supporters Sarah and Cary Keller. Contributions have also come from the Michael and Lynn Rice Estate, Davis Constructors and Engineers, and RESPEC. UAF highlights that the planetarium represents a collaborative effort between the Museum of the North and the UAF Geophysical Institute, aiming to showcase both the institution’s research and the rich cultures of Alaska.
In a statement, the Babulas emphasized the planetarium’s role in enhancing space science education opportunities for K-12 and higher education students. They noted their vision for the facility as a place that would ignite curiosity among both Alaskans and visitors regarding Alaska’s unique culture and the vast universe.
Walt Babula’s ties to Fairbanks date back to 1970 when he was stationed at Fort Wainwright’s Bassett Army Hospital. Following his military service, he founded the Fairbanks Orthodontic Group in 1974. Marita Babula initially worked at Fort Wainwright’s Army Community Services before joining the orthodontic group as office manager and treatment coordinator. The couple has previously supported various initiatives in Fairbanks, including the Babula Children’s Garden at the Georgeson Botanical Garden.
A State-of-the-Art Facility
The new planetarium will span 5,700 square feet and feature an 11-foot dome, two high-resolution projectors, image generation computers, and an advanced sound system. The facility is designed to offer educational experiences for K-12 school groups, UAF students and staff, as well as hosting community gatherings.
Omega Smith, the planetarium director, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “As a lifelong Alaskan who grew up beneath the northern lights, I’m honored to be this planetarium’s first director. I’m deeply grateful to the donors whose astronomical generosity is helping bring to life a long-held vision of the Geophysical Institute and UA Museum of the North.”
With its rich array of features and educational opportunities, the new planetarium is poised to become a significant resource for both the local community and visitors, fostering a deeper understanding of science and culture in Alaska.