• A-5 • Set-up/Operation
Safety Rules
In order to maximize the overall quality of your STARLAB experience, and make cer-
tain that the system components are not damaged in any way, it’s important that you
always follow these simple safety rules when using the STARLAB System.
1. Never set up the STARLAB dome near an open ame or point heat source such
as an incandescent light bulb or a radiant heater. These can easily damage the
dome. Never allow anyone who is smoking in or near the dome.
2. Never allow food or drink inside the STARLAB dome as it could make the inside
of the dome sticky or could cause damage to the projector and projection cylin-
ders.
3. Never leave projection cylinders lying loose on the oor when they are not in
use. These should always be stored in either the cylinder or projector case.
4. Never set up the STARLAB outdoors. It is not designed to be exposed to moisture
and direct sunlight, and even a gentle breeze could move the dome when it is
inated.
5. Never allow a group of students to be alone in the STARLAB. The instructor
should always be the rst one in and the last one out. Upon leaving the STARLAB
dome, the instructor should check to make sure that there is no one remaining in
either the entrance or ination tubes.
6. Always make sure that there is a clear path out of the STARLAB in the event of
an emergency. Never set up the dome so that it is on the edge of a stage where
individuals might fall off. Always show occupants that they can quickly exit
underneath the dome wall in the event of an emergency (see below). Do not use
the entrance tunnel to evacuate the dome in the event of an emergency.
Emergency Procedures
The instructor should always have a working ashlight at hand in the event of a
power failure in the STARLAB. If the lights go out, shine the ashlight straight up at the
middle of the dome to illuminate the STARLAB. If the fan stops working, the STARLAB
dome will not collapse quickly, but will slowly start to deate. As a result, this will
give you time to have someone make a quick check of the fan to make sure that it
is plugged in and turned on. If the fan cannot be restarted, it will be necessary to
evacuate the dome as quickly as possible. Instead of exiting via the entrance tunnel,
have the visitors exit using the following emergency evacuation procedure:
• Have all visitors stand up and move toward the center of the dome. If you are
using carpet squares, have each person pick up the one they are sitting on.
• Grasp the edge of the dome fabric directly opposite the side of the STARLAB
where the ination and entrance tubes are located. Lift the fabric up and over
the visitors so the dome ips over onto itself. Once in motion, the fabric should
continue to bunch up on itself so it falls to the oor between the two tunnels.
• In just seconds, the entire group can be evacuated.
