Statement of Award to Sole Source- Digistar 7 (Digistar 2025)

Francis Marion University awarded a sole‑source contract to Evans & Sutherland Computer Corp. for the procurement, installation, and support of a Digistar 7 (Digistar 2025) digital planetarium system for its Dooley Planetarium. The award, valued at $245,160, replaces the older Digistar 5 system and introduces advanced capabilities such as “Domecast” broadcasting, expanded STEM curriculum content, real‑time solar displays, and on‑the‑fly terrain generation. The system will serve multiple academic courses and a high‑volume community outreach program, enhancing both classroom instruction and public education. Key deliverables include full hardware platform, software, training, 24‑hour support, and integration with a statewide content‑sharing network. • Upgrade from Digistar 5 to Digistar 7 with unique Domecast feature. • Supports a wide range of university courses and K‑12 outreach, serving ~49 k guests annually. • Includes hardware, software, training, 24‑hour support, and cloud‑based content sharing.