C SEED's Stellar Sky TV
C SEED's 144’’ Outdoor TV installation at Lowell Observatory:
A New Dimension in Night Sky Viewing
The Lowell Observatory in Arizona, famous for its role in significant astronomical discoveries, has unveiled a remarkable addition to its facility: a custom-designed C SEED 144 inch outdoor TV. C SEED embarked on a unique challenge to create a screen that enhances the visitor experience, amd this project showcases the possibilities of precision engineering, software tuning, and advanced display technology to create a seamless blend between artificial and natural beauty.
The Technical Challenge
One of the most significant hurdles the C SEED team faced was developing a display suited to the observatory's unique requirements. The screen had to operate at brightness levels so low that it would not interfere with the natural darkness essential for stargazing. This required an unprecedented adjustment to the LED components, driver chips, and programming. At typical usage, the brightness is calibrated to blend so seamlessly with the dark sky that transitioning between viewing the screen and observing the real sky is imperceptible. Even at minimal brightness levels, C SEED ensured image quality and color reproduction remained as vibrant and precise as it would at full brightness. This was achieved through meticulous calibration and the fine-tuning of parameters, ensuring a viewing experience that matched the clarity and accuracy of the natural night sky. During twilight or dusk, the screen’s brightness can dynamically increase to approximately 400 nits, allowing for optimal visibility without overwhelming the environment. This adaptive brightness capability is powered by software and hardware innovations, including carefully selected active components and their precise alignment.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this project is how the screen complements, rather than competes with, the night sky. The brightness and color accuracy are calibrated so perfectly that viewing the display feels identical to observing the sky itself. This ensures that shifting focus between the screen and the real sky does not cause visual disruption, a critical factor for Lowell Observatory’s mission of promoting an authentic stargazing experience. The engineering prowess behind the screen ensures that even at 2-3% brightness, the image quality is indistinguishable from 100% brightness.
Technical Marvel
- Screen Size: A massive 144 inche display, providing an immersive viewing experience.
- Pixel Pitch: With a 1.6mm pixel pitch, the screen delivers exceptional detail, even at close viewing distances.
- Technology: Outdoor MicroLED, a cutting-edge display technology known for its durability, brightness efficiency, and unparalleled color accuracy.
- Extended Column Design: The screen’s structural design ensures stability and performance, even in demanding outdoor environments.
The installation of C SEED’s 144 inch outdoor MicroLED TV at Lowell Observatory highlights how technology can be adapted to meet specific environmental and experiential needs. For visitors to Lowell Observatory, this new addition provides an enhanced educational and visual experience, offering stunning clarity and detail without compromising the breathtaking views of Arizona’s night sky.