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Definiti Projection
Relentless Innovation
Captivating Content
World-Class Service
Definiti 4K Projection System
Museum of Science, Boston
Charles Hayden Planetarium
1. What to Consider
2. How It Works
3. Projection Glossary
4. Single-Projector Simplicity
PD III, Solo, and Maestro
Contents
Definiti 6 Projection System
Queen Mary 2 Ocean Liner
Illuminations Theater
5. Incredible Value, Powerful Performance
Duet, Compact 6, 5, 6, 6 HC, and 8
6. A Stunning Picture
4K and 4K HC
7. The Excitement of 3D
3D Duet, 3D 4K, and 3D 8K
8. The Power of 8K
8K and 8K HC
9. The Clarity of Hybrid
MEGASTAR
Definiti 4K Projection System
SongAm Stars Valley, South Korea
SongAm Space Center Planetarium
Dome image: Astronaut, produced by NSC Creative
Photo by Sam Fentress
1.
What to Consider
Sky-Skan has consulted on planetariums and complex interactive theaters for
decades. Here are some top considerations we’ve found to be important for
2.
How It Works
How does the image get to the screen? This brief
overview will show you the major components.
choosing a digital projection system. Overall performance is always a top priority,
but be sure to consider factors like reliability, ease of installation, and value.
Graphics
Servers
Performance
Reliability and Maintenance
Console and Graphics Servers
Projectors, Masking, and Blending
• RESOLUTION Resolution is often
expressed by a pixel count or by pixels
across the dome arc. Be sure to compare
pixel counts after blending/masking
(called unique pixels).
• RELIABILITY The system should perform
consistently over the expected life of the
equipment.
DigitalSky software runs on the console computer
and Definiti graphics servers, connected by a
network. The software has real-time databases
and playback graphics that are selected to play
on the system. Each graphics server sends a video
signal to the projectors.
From the graphics servers, digital video cables bring
the video to each projector. Instead of one projector
on a rectangular screen, Definiti theaters have one or
more projectors on a hemispherical screen. This requires
masking and blending of the image from each projector,
which is accomplished using a number of techniques.
• SEAMS In multi-projector systems,
seams must be properly blended to
make them invisible.
• BRIGHTNESS A higher overall
brightness, which is affected by dome
screen reflectivity as well as lumens
from projectors, is important for image
fine details, color quality, and 3D
stereoscopic viewing.
A high-brightness projection system
on a low reflectivity (or gain) screen
will result in higher dome contrast. This
can provide good image quality for
scenes that include bright areas.
• CONTRAST/BLACK LEVEL Screen
reflectivity (or gain) is the major
factor affecting contrast in domes,
with the exception of very dark
scenes, such as a night sky without
moonlight. A high-contrast projection
system helps make those special dark
scenes more dramatic.
• MAINTENANCE The time and cost
required for maintenance, such as lamp
replacements, should be factored into the
initial and ongoing costs of ownership.
Installation
• SCHEDULE Allowing for a reasonable
period for installation, training, and
familiarization with day-to-day system use
ensures a successful theater opening.
• SIZE The equipment should be checked for
proper dimensions to fit into the theater’s
existing location or a new theater’s
planned dimensions.
Stitching Multiple Projectors
In medium and large Definiti theaters, multiple projectors are
used to each cover a part of the dome screen. The audience
doesn’t see multiple images, but one continuous picture.
This is accomplished with each projector covering a different
portion of the screen, like a mosaic.
Sky-Skan has developed specialized techniques for stitching
projector images together. Creating invisible seams is one of
the biggest benefits to choosing a Definiti projection system.
Image Warping in Software
A key advantage to Definiti projection systems is that image
warping takes place in the DigitalSky 2 software. If a system
handles warping at the projector, pixels (and detail) are lost in
the process. Instead, our method maximizes both ease of use
with software controls and image quality with the maximum
pixels contributing to the picture.
3.
Projection Glossary
Comparing projection systems can be the
toughest part of upgrading or building a
theater. We’re here to help you with the
terms we use on the following pages.
Knowing the terms is important! For
projector location
brightness
resolution
total pixels
The diagram shows where projectors are
located and pointed. In multiple projector
systems, each projector covers a portion of
the dome and is blended with the others into
a seamless fulldome picture.
example, if you don’t know the different
ways that resolution is specified, you
might assume total pixels is comparable
to unique pixels. Get informed below!
one
projector
two
projectors
six
projectors
We list brightness based on a total of the manufacturer’s brightness for each projector.
The actual brightness you’ll see in the dome is based on a number of additional factors
unique to each dome.
The three pixel count terms below (total, unique, and dome arc pixels) are each a way
to define resolution. The first, total pixels, is the least reliable way to describe resolution
because the nature of projecting a rectangular image on a spherical surface doesn’t use
all the pixels of the projector—even in a single-projector fisheye system. It is better to
compare systems with the unique pixels or dome arc pixels figures.
dome arc pixels
Photo by Denis Callesen
contrast
Using DigitalSky software, we can accurately calculate the number
of pixels that contribute to the dome image, including pixels in
blended areas that only partially contribute. Unique pixels are given
using a typical configuration. Actual unique pixels will depend on
the specific projector layout for your dome.
Just as with unique pixels, we can accurately calculate a
count of pixels across any great circle on the dome (dotted
line in the diagram). We list a typical count as each arc is
slightly different in the number of pixels that contribute
to the image. This is also different based on the projector
layout for your particular dome.
Contrast is specified as the ratio of the brightest white to the darkest black. Unlike
brightness and resolution, contrast is not directly affected by masking and blending.
We use the projector manufacturer’s contrast measurement without dynamic contrast
or similar features if available.
If you simply add all pixels fed to all projectors you get what we call total pixels.
Because this number counts pixels not used in the dome image, it is not useful in
determining resolution in the dome. The next two terms account for actual pixels that
contribute to the image.
unique pixels
Definiti 5 Projection System
Mt. Cook Observatory
technology
features
There are three major categories of projection technology in use today: LCD, DLP, and
LCoS. Each has different features, with LCoS proving the highest performance. DLP
provides a mix of performance and low cost. LCD provides the lowest cost.
PORTABLE
Domes
SMALL
<10m
Domes
MEDIUM
10-15m
Domes
LARGE
15-20m
Domes
X-LARGE
20m+
Domes
Recommended
for portable
domes.
Recommended
for domes up to
10 meters.
Recommended
for domes 10 to
15 meters.
Recommended
for domes 15 to
20 meters.
Recommended
for domes over
20 meters.
60
FPS
READY
3D
TILT
These systems are
capable of 60 frames
per second in real-time
and playback.
These systems
are also available
as Definiti 3D
stereoscopic.
These systems are
available for tilted or
non-tilted domes.
READY
4.
Single-Projector
Simplicity
The PD III: big-theater power,
on the go.
One Projector = Simple
In a planetarium with a staff of one, simplicity
becomes necessity. Sky-Skan’s Definiti PD III, Solo,
and new Maestro systems combine the power
of DigitalSky with the ease of a simple setup.
One projector, one lamp, and no surprises.
Nothing is simpler for permanent installations than
Solo and Maestro.
Simply choose the brightness and resolution you need. Solo provides
3,500 lumens with a 1K image.
The PD III features the full
power of DigitalSky. The power
of the world’s largest theaters
is now portable! In fact, PD III
features an innovative folding
mechanism for easy transport.
Need more? Our new Maestro adds an incredible 10,000:1 native
contrast ratio and 2.4K resolution (4.5M unique pixels). This makes
Maestro the highest resolution single-projector solution available.
PD III
projector location
brightness
total pixels
unique pixels
dome arc pixels
contrast
technology
features
Solo
Maestro
2,900-7,500lm
2.3-4.1M
1.1-2M
1.2-1.6K
1,000-7,500:1
DLP or LCoS
5,000lm
9.8M
4.5M
2.4K
10,000:1
D-ILA
projector location
2,500lm
0.8M
0.9M
1K
400:1
LCD
PORTABLE
SMALL
<10m
60 TILT
FPS
READY
brightness
*PD III has truncated picture coverage
total pixels
unique pixels
perspective
view
dome arc pixels
contrast
top
view
technology
Truncated:
Tan area is not
covered.
Non-truncated:
Complete dome
coverage.
features
PORTABLE
SMALL
<10m
60 TILT
FPS
READY
SMALL
<10m
MEDIUM
10-15m
60 TILT
FPS
READY
*Maestro is not
available in all
regions. Check
with your sales
representative
for availability.
5.
Incredible Value,
Definiti Duet: two-projector performance
from the theater’s cove.
Value + Performance
Duet is for those seeking extra performance
over a single-projector solution, yet
keeping to the simplest design possible.
Duet delivers with a bright, sharp
picture and no equipment in the pit!
Our solutions for small and midsize
domes combine multiple single-channel
projectors into a bright, high-resolution
seamless solution.
Powerful Performance
Definiti 5, 6, 6 HC, and 8: value/performance leaders.
Our most popular Definiti projection systems are chosen because they have a
great mix of brightness, resolution, and price. We offer several configurations
for a variety of domes. Our 6 HC solution is perfect to pair with a Definiti Optical
star projector and keep the fidelity of a black sky. With Definiti 8 we’ve added
even more brightness and resolution to our popular 6 configuration.
Duet
Compact 6
5
6
6 HC
8
5,800-15,000lm
4.6-8.2M
2.4-4.5M
1.9-2.5K
2,900-7,500:1
DLP
13,200lm
4.7M
3.2M
2K
2,000:1
DLP
12,500lm
11.5M
7.35M
2.8K
4,000:1
DLP
17,400-45,000lm
13.8-24.6M
6.3-13.1M
3.4-4.8K
2,900-10,000:1
DLP
10,200lm
12.4M
7.5M
3.2K
30,000:1
D-ILA
23,200-60,000lm
32.8M
18.8M
5.5K
2,900-10,000:1
DLP
projector location
brightness
total pixels
unique pixels
dome arc pixels
contrast
technology
features
SMALL
<10m
60
FPS
MEDIUM
10-15m
3D TILT
READY
READY
MEDIUM
10-15m
SMALL
<10m
3D TILT
60
SMALL
<10m
60
FPS
READY
READY
FPS
MEDIUM
10-15m
LARGE
15-20m
SMALL
<10m
3D TILT
60
READY
READY
FPS
MEDIUM
10-15m
LARGE
15-20m
3D TILT
READY
READY
SMALL
<10m
MEDIUM
10-15m
SMALL
<10m
60 TILT
60
FPS
READY
FPS
MEDIUM
10-15m
LARGE
15-20m
3D TILT
READY
READY
6.
A Stunning Picture
About Definiti HD Lenses
4K
dome arc pixels
contrast
technology
features
Definiti 3D is both a great tool for a more immersive experience and a great
way to get audiences more excited about the show. Definiti 3D can be
added to most of our Definiti systems. Just look for the “3D ready” feature.
or
22,000-42,000lm
17.7M
10-12M
4K
2,500-3,000:1
LCoS: SXRD
MEDIUM
10-15m
60
FPS
LARGE
15-20m
X-LARGE
20m+
3D
TILT
READY
With Definiti 3D, all real-time imagery from DigitalSky is automatically in 3D
stereo, giving you lots of content. We also distribute a number of playback
shows in 3D. Our 3D solutions include Infitec filters and glasses, which
provide the best color quality, brightness, and overall performance.
4K HC
projector location
unique pixels
The most immersive experience in fulldome.
Definiti 4K’s stunning picture quality rivals film for color
fidelity and provides the brightness to make your content
look great. With 4K HC, we’ve added an unbelievable
10,000:1 native contrast ratio to create stunning black
skies. Only Sky-Skan can offer the Definiti HD lens range,
designed specifically for Definiti fulldome theaters.
Pictured is an 8K lens
with a 90° bend for tilted
dome installations where
the projector can only tilt
front to back.
total pixels
The Excitement of 3D
4K resolution and premium color quality
from only two projectors.
Definiti 4K and 8K systems feature
Definiti HD lenses—designed
by Sky-Skan exclusively for
these configurations.
brightness
7.
READY
60
FPS
3D
LARGE
15-20m
READY
3D 4K
3D 8K
15,000lm
44,000lm
132,000lm
3D: 9.2-16.4M 2D: 4.6-8.2M
3D: 35.4M 2D: 17.7M
3D: 53.1M 2D: 106.2M
2D unique pixels
2.4-4.5M
10-12M
35-38M
2D dome arc pixels
1.9-2.5K
4K
8K
2D contrast
2,000:1
2,500-3,000:1
2,500-3,000:1
technology
DLP
SXRD
SXRD
projector location
10,000lm
19.7M
10-12M
4K
10,000:1
LCoS: D-ILA
MEDIUM
10-15m
3D Duet
TILT
READY
2D brightness
total pixels
features
SMALL
<10m
60
FPS
MEDIUM
10-15m
3D
READY
TILT
READY
MEDIUM
10-15m
60
FPS
LARGE
15-20m
X-LARGE
20m+
MEDIUM
10-15m
3D
TILT
60
READY
READY
FPS
LARGE
15-20m
X-LARGE
20m+
3D
TILT
READY
READY
8.
The Power of 8K
9.
The Clarity of Hybrid
Ultimate performance.
The perfect partnership of optical and digital: Definiti Hybrid
When 4K is not enough, 8K delivers even sharper pictures and more
brightness. At 8K resolution, stars rival even optical projection
sharpness. The power of Definiti 8K digital is that everything is
sharp—from the stars to constellation lines and overlays to the
most complex 3D data sets.
An absolutely black sky. Pinpoint stars. For decades, the world’s best planetariums
have enjoyed optical star quality. Definiti Hybrid improves on earlier generations of
star projectors by adding millions of stars to create the Milky Way and other deepsky objects. They’re so detailed, audiences need binoculars to truly appreciate them.
The MEGASTAR optical star field is synchronized with DigitalSky’s digital
projection for incredible hybrid performance. For an even more stunning
sky, optional Sun, Moon, and planet projectors are also available.
8K HC goes even further with super-black starry skies, perfect to
combine, if desired, with Definiti Optical’s MEGASTAR projectors.
Even with the 10,000:1 native contrast, 8K HC still delivers 30,000
lumens for an impressive picture.
8K
8K HC
total pixels
unique pixels
dome arc pixels
contrast
technology
features
MEGASTAR
up to 5M
up to 20M
0
21-62
50+
170+
optional (Sun only)
optional
optional
optional
axis speed
up to 20 deg/sec
up to 40 deg/sec
size
330x297x405mm
816x600x934mm
light source
LEDs, dimmable
LEDs, dimmable
cooling
fanless
built-in fans
shutter
none
electronic
no
yes
ZERO
stars
projector location
brightness
MEGASTAR
bright stars
66,000-126,000lm
53M
35-38M
8K
2,500-3,000:1
LCoS: SXRD
30,000lm
59M
35-38M
8K
10,000:1
LCoS: D-ILA
MEDIUM
10-15m
LARGE
15-20m
X-LARGE
20m+
MEDIUM
10-15m
LARGE
15-20m
X-LARGE
20m+
60
3D
TILT
60
3D
TILT
FPS
READY
READY
FPS
READY
READY
deep-sky objects
Sun, Moon projectors
Planet projectors
hybrid with digital
IIA
SCITECH, Horizon – The Planetarium
Perth, Western Australia
About Sky-Skan
In 1967, Sky-Skan was creating innovative
special effect projectors for planetariums.
Since then, it has continued to be devoted
primarily to planetariums and education
through visual tools. Creating scientifically
accurate products that are easy to use and
modify is at the core of our identity.
Sky-Skan’s headquarters in Nashua, New
Hampshire (near Boston) is supported
by offices in Germany and Australia and
by regional representatives around the
world. Sky-Skan offers research, theater
design, professional development,
graphics production, show distribution,
and its renowned hardware and
software engineering groups. While
remaining a small company, Sky-Skan
is able to serve a world-wide customer
base while staying dedicated to serving
planetariums and dome theaters that
educate and inspire audiences.
Contact Us
North America/Pacific +1 603-880-8500, sales@skyskan.com
Europe +49 89-6428-9231, sse@skyskan.com
Oceania +61 3-9329-5501, sso@skyskan.com
On the web at SkySkan.com
Contents are © Copyright 2013 Sky-Skan, Inc. This document contains information that is subject to change without notice. Errors, omissions,
or outdated information may be present. No additional warranties should be assumed from information in this document.