Arlington's David M. Brown Planetarium

The nonprofit group trying to keep the David M. Brown Planetarium in Arlington open to the public still has a way to go in terms of fundraising. But unlike last year, it looks like they won't have to fight to keep the planetarium open on an interim basis, as Arlington Public Schools has proposed to set aside more than $230,000 for the facility in its 2012 budget plan.

The Friends of Arlington's David M. Brown Planetarium are endeavoring to raise more than $400,000 for capital improvements to the planetarium by the end of June. At this point last year, APS opted to cut funding for the science facility from the budget, essentially closing it while the group tried to raise the money.

Murphy ultimately relented and agreed to fund a half-time employee to keep the planetarium open, and planetarium supporters had been hopeful that the substantial $100,000 gift they received in December would eliminate such a standoff this year.

The proposed 2012 budget includes the half-time employee, and also allocates the school's portion of improvements to the planetarium. "In order to honor its commitment to the Friends of the Planetarium, APS is placing $230,000 in a reserve for a portion of the capital improvements needed for the Planetarium building," according to budget documents.

Alice Monet, executive director of the planetarium group, says the budget is great news for the success of their efforts. "This is a clear indication that the Superintendent is confident of their success," she said, adding that the group had "turned a major corner."

The group will be testing several new projectors for the planetarium during the next few months in advance of purchase, and the first demonstration comes this Thursday and Friday, March 3 and 4. For more information, check out saveplanetarium.org.