Science, research, and the stars all come together in the night sky for the Lowell Observatory. Founded in 1848 by Percival Lowell, Lowell Observatory is located in Flagstaff Arizona where they operate a dark-sky research site as well as Northern Arizona’s only science store. The MOVA Space Collection fits right at home at the non-profit research institution, where they focus on pure astronomical research and public outreach. Diana Weintraub, Retail Supervisor of Lowell Observatory, discusses customer reactions to MOVA Globes, popular models, and the optimal display for the MOVA Space Collection in their store.
What’s the funniest reaction to a MOVA Globe you’ve ever witnessed?
When I introduced them to our retail staff, their faces were hilarious. They were asking, “How does it spin?”
How do you think selling MOVA Globes benefits your establishment?
We’re in science and astronomy; we studied Mars and Pluto, and did Moon mapping. As a scientific establishment, it’s great to be able to display the globes and give a scientific explanation as to how they work.
What is Lowell Observatory’s most popular MOVA Globe model?
The Satellite View Earth with Clouds [MG-45-STE-C]. I recently ordered them for the third time in a month!
What do you think makes a MOVA Globe unique?
The detail on each globe makes it appealing. People are blown away by the fact that it can move on its own.
How did you first discover MOVA Globes?
I saw them at the Griffith Observatory. Later, I couldn’t remember what they were called so my friend grabbed a brochure from there and mailed it to me.
How do you display your MOVA Globes?
In glass cubes. I typically have 9 globes out and place one globe in each cube. It makes them a lot more visual. Then we make signs for them, the name of whatever planet the globe represents and an explanation behind what makes them work.
Lowell Observatory always strives to share their unique collection of educational gifts and one-of-a-kind merchandise with visitors and the MOVA Globe has been no exception. To learn more about Lowell Observatory and their efforts in contributing to science and bringing the wonder of science to others, visit http://lowell.edu.