Science debate 2008 has sent the candidates a list of questions on science issues, and as of recently they have both answered, a side by side comparison of their answers can be found here.

To quote Hewett, prepared answers to prepared questions is not the best way to judge a candidate on these issues, and sometimes catching them live is a better way to learn.

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But, perhaps the most telling glimpse into a candidate’s views on a subject can be obtained when that subject comes up during a live interview. Here’s what John McCain had to say today when speaking to the Associated Press and Florida newspapers:

“That’s nearly a million every day, every working day he’s been in Congress,” McCain said. “And when you look at some of the planetariums and other foolishness that he asked for, he shouldn’t be saying anything about Governor Palin.”

This was a comment about Obama’s earmark requests in response to queries about the earmarks Governor Palin has requested for Alaska. Quite frankly, I am left speechless at the phrase: “planetariums and other foolishness.” Perhaps I’m biased, but I never thought of planetariums as being foolish.

So, I did some checking on the internet. This is one of the great things about this election – the actual facts can be checked by anyone on the web. Here is the text from Obama’s FY08 funding request:

Adler Planetarium, to support replacement of its projector and related equipment, $3,000,000 :

One of its most popular attractions and teaching tools at the Adler Planetarium is the Sky Theater. The projection equipment in this theater is 40 years old, and is no longer supported with parts or service by the manufacturer. It has begun to fail, leaving the theater dark and groups of school students and other interested museum-goers without this very valuable and exciting learning experience.

Sorry, but replacing 40 year old equipment at one of the leading science education facilities in this country (the Adler Planetarium is located in downtown Chicago and is the oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere in existence today) is one of the best investments in the future that I can think of. I’ve always equated planetariums with science education - an area where the US seems to be lacking.

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The planetarium building still stands, used for office and storage space.

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Originally posted by M. Spector:
The Royal Ontario Museum got rid of Toronto's only first-class planetarium in 1995. It was one of the most short-sighted and stupid decisions ever made in this city.

The planetarium building still stands, used for office and storage space.

What a tragic waste!

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