Description
George shows how a Trippensee tellurian illustrates astronomical principles in the three one-minute videos below, originally produced as Instagram reels.
The Trippensee Planetarium is a demonstration model of the movement of the earth, moon and Venus relative to each other and to the sun. It shows such phenomena as the succession of seasons, and solar and lunar eclipses. In addition to its educational objective, the tellurian is also decorative and entertaining. The original models, patented in 1908, have maple arms and central standards. Those produced around the second quarter of the 20th century have ebonized arms and central standards. Models made after World War II models are of Bakelite or plastic.
Shield-form cartouche on globe: TRIPPENSEE/ Planetarium/ Company/ Detroit,/ Mich.
Additional legend on globe: Rand, McNally & Co's/ New 3 Inch/ Terrestrial Globe/ Copyright 1891, by/ Rand McNally & Co.
Maker’s label on arm: THE TRIPPENSEE PLANETARIUM/ PAT. U.S. MAR. 10, '08, CANADA JULY 21, '08, / THE TRIPPENSEE MFG. CO./ DETROIT, MICH., U.S.A.
Condition: In superior condition, operates well gears and mechanical parts having recently been professionally restored, cleaned, oiled. Earth very good, colors bright, with light toning and wear. Sun fine, with no dents, in high polish. Other parts generally very good to fine.
Reference:
Hovey, Edward. Elements of Mathematical Geography - A Hand Book for School and Home Use in Connection with the Trippensee Planetarium. Detroit: 1911.
