MiSci gets $55,000 grant to help toward planetarium upgrade

MiSci in Schenectady is receiving a $55,000 grant to upgrade its planetarium.

Planned improvements include a new projector, projection equipment and sound system, as well as seating repairs and reupholstery, according to a statement from Metroplex, which is providing the grant.

The cost of the work is about $70,000, with the rest of the money coming from the Bender Scientific Fund and Niskayuna Community Foundation.

This is part of a recent agreement between Schenectady County and the museum to stay and grow at its current location. Schenectady County plans to issue a request for proposals for engineering firms to study building upgrades and repairs needed to preserve the museum’s archives and collections and support programming to draw new visitors.

The museum was in danger of closing due to structural problems they couldn’t afford to fix. Moving presented many challenges. However, a task force of community leaders reached an agreement to keep the museum open for years to come.