FAQ
Have a question about our research and collections? Check our frequently asked questions to learn more.
Image at right: © David Paul Ohmer
- Why does the Adler Planetarium have a collection, anyway?
When Max Adler founded the Adler Planetarium in 1930, he intended it to be not only a theater to entertain the public, but a museum to illustrate the story of astronomy. Its original name was Adler Planetarium and Astronomical Museum. - My family has an old scientific instrument (for example, a sextant, or a telescope). How can we find out what it was used for, and how much it is worth?
To find what it was used for you need to identify the instrument. A good way to do this is by searching the internet. The Adler Planetarium cannot give appraisals or estimate the value of artifacts. Consult a specialized dealer or auction house. - I am researching one of my ancestors who made scientific instruments. A web search turned up a very brief (and hard to understand) page from something called the Websters Instrument Makers Database, with an adlerplanetarium.org address. Can you help?
You can search the Webster Signature Database for more information. (Please be aware that almost none of the artifacts mentioned in that database are at the Adler, and we know little or nothing about them beyond what is in the database.) - How can I find out more about the historical artifacts in the Adler collection?
You can search the Adler’s collection database. - Can I get a professional-quality photograph of an object (or a book, or a work on paper) in the Adler collection?
Yes, you can. Learn more about rights and reproductions at the Adler. - Can I take my own photographs of exhibitions at the Adler?
Yes, personal photography is allowed in the Adler exhibition halls. Bear in mind that reflections from flashbulbs often produce glare from glass display cases. Tripods, photographic lights, and the like are not allowed because of inconvenience to museum visitors. - I’m really curious about one of the instruments in the Adler collection. How can I arrange to study it more closely?
Serious requests to study collections objects may be granted, dependent upon the condition and availability of the objects, staff schedules, and other considerations. Contact us via email at astrohistory@adlerplanetarium.org. - How do I arrange a behind-the-scenes tour of the Adler collections for my astronomy class?
Behind-the-scenes tours may be allowed, dependent upon staffing and other considerations. Contact us via email at astrohistory@adlerplanetarium.org. - What are the latest science results from the Interstellar Boundary Explorer mission?
To keep up with the latest results from IBEX, please visit the mission website. - I am a scientist interested in developing an Education and Public Outreach project related to my research. Would the Adler be interested in partnering with me?
Yes! The Adler is interested in hearing from individual scientists and teams conducting astronomy and space exploration missions and research. We have extensive experience developing education and public outreach (E/PO) products and programs involving a broad range of budgets. Contact us today for more information. - Is my astrolabe fake?
Yes, we are pretty sure your astrolabe is fake—even without seeing it. Almost all real astrolabes have come into the possession of museums or knowledgeable collectors. Learn how to determine if your astrolabe is fake. (PDF)
- Around the Adler
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Talk to scientists during our regularly scheduled Space Visualization Laboratory open hours.
- Did you know?
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The Adler is partners with NASA for missions including the Interstellar Boundary Explorer.
- Get involved
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The Webster Club provides financial support for the care and growth of our collection.
