Published Wednesday, January 17th, 2024
Wayne State’s free planetarium and laser shows scheduled for Jan. 19-20.
Wayne State College’s free planetarium and laser shows begin again for the spring semester with shows on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 19-20, in the Fred G. Dale Planetarium. The public is invited to attend.
On Friday, Jan. 19, the planetarium show “Stars” will be at 7 p.m., followed by the laser show “Laser Fun” at 8 p.m.
On Saturday, Jan. 20, the planetarium show “Astronaut” will be at 1 p.m., followed by the laser show “Laser Beatles” at 2 p.m.
Every weekend features a new planetarium show about a universe-sized number of topics, including the Solar System, multicultural astronomy, and the search for life in the universe. Audiences can also enjoy the lights and music of many laser shows presented throughout the season, including Laser Classic Rock, Laser Country, Laser Beatles, and Laser Pink Floyd! Kids Weekend will be held in early February featuring shows specifically for kids that are pre-K to second grade.
Anyone who attends a planetarium show will receive a free pair of solar eclipse glasses.
The planetarium is located on the lowest level of Wayne State’s Carhart Science Building. Guests should use the southwest doors to enter. Once inside, go to the stairs at the south end of the building and go down to the lowest level. You may also take the elevator. Carhart Science and the planetarium are handicap accessible.
Doors open 20 minutes prior to the start of a show and shows generally include a tour of the current night sky, a view of the constellations, and a full dome video.
All shows last about 45 minutes. Those wanting to book a private planetarium show should complete the online reservation form. For more information, visit www.wsc.edu/planetarium, or contact Dr. Todd Young, director of the Fred G. Dale Planetarium, at 402-375-7471 or [email protected].
Solar Eclipse Talks
With a solar eclipse coming in April, Dr. Todd Young is offering a presentation to educate various groups and organizations on the science of solar eclipses. If you are interested in having Young present this talk to your group, please contact him directly at 402-375-7471 or [email protected].
In the lobby of the planetarium, solar glasses for looking at the Sun are for sale. They are $2 for one pair of glasses or $5 for three pairs. Never look at the sun without using proper solar glasses.