Dresser Celestial sphere

The Dresser Celestial Sphere is a kinetic sculpture that is a variant of a 17th century armillary sphere. The armillary sphere was used to map the visible universe and to teach the concepts of coordinate systems in astronomy as they were understood at the time. The sphere allows people who use it to visualize the relationships between two systems of coordinates that define the positions of celestial bodies in the Earth's sky.  The two systems of coordinates are the horizon system of coordinates and the celestial equator system of coordinates.

For centuries it has been recognized that placing the Earth at the center of the visible universe isn't an accurate representation, but this Earth-centered view of the universe has long been used by celestial navigators in determining their positions on the Earth.

The sphere is constructed of stainless steel (celestial equator system of coordinates) and bronze (horizon system of coordinates) and rests on a polished granite base. The sphere is 70 inches in diameter and weighs approximately 900 pounds.

The Dresser Celestial Sphere was unveiled in August 2002, with the dedication of the new McLaughlin Science Center at Gould Academy in Bethel, Maine.  The sphere was designed by Dr. Harry "Dutch" Dresser, Gould's Associate Head of School and Director of Studies who also taught math,  computer sciences, and celestial navigation. Richard Slattery of Gilead, Maine, a parent of a Gould Academy student, served as the design engineer. The sphere was produced by Tallix, Inc., of Beacon, N.Y.