District installs Digistar laser system in planetarium, links shows to curriculum

St. Bernard Parish schools have installed a Digistar laser projection system in the MoMA Center planetarium and updated the supporting computer equipment, presenters told the school board’s education committee.

“Last month, we had Digistar Projection System, which uses lasers instead of bulbs, installed in our planetarium,” said Mary Lametta, who presented the update. She said the previous bulb‑based system relied on parts from a single manufacturer that is no longer producing replacement bulbs.

Lametta described Digistar’s features, including 3‑D photorealistic tiles and integration with Gaia Data Release 3, which she said “allows for the opportunity to explore the most comprehensive and precise three‑dimensional map of the Milky Way galaxy.” She and other staff said the new system produces higher‑quality visuals and allows more immersive, curriculum‑aligned experiences.

Board members asked about public access and cost. Mayor Jurgis asked whether the planetarium will be open to families; Lametta said the planetarium is currently “integrated with the science lessons within our curriculum” during school days and that past Saturday and evening sessions drew very low attendance. Lametta said the district is “willing to offer it” to the community and noted there is a “nominal charge” when community shows are scheduled.

Staff said the upgraded system was already used during STEAM Camp and that the planetarium typically runs two shows a day for school groups. There was no action requested; the item was presented for information.