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Planetarium Shows under the Dome
Non-Planetarium Options
PLANETARIUM SHOWS UNDER THE DOME
- All shows are 25-45 minutes in length. -
• Constellations and the Solar System
Ideal age range: Elementary school through adult
This "classic" planetarium show provides a great overview of astronomy.
Attendees learn the most prominent constellations visible in the night
sky and the mythology behind them. We talk about the phases of the moon
and tour the planets in our solar system, and end by traveling outside
our galaxy to explore the structure of the universe as a whole.
• Constellation Lore
Ideal age range: Elementary school through adult
This show includes an extended focus on the constellations that are
visible throughout the different seasons, as well as on the stories and
mythologies that various cultures have attached to these patterns in the
sky.
• Solar System Sojourn
Ideal age range: Elementary school through adult
We look at how the orbits of the planets make them appear to move across
the sky as seen from our vantage point on Earth. We then use virtual
reality to "fly" to each planet to examine its characteristics up close.
We also talk about the smaller objects in our solar system, as well as
systems of exoplanets orbiting other stars.
• Intro to the Universe
Ideal age range: Ages 3-5
Aimed at very young children, this shorter show introduces the sun and
moon, constellations, and other highlights visible in the night sky
through songs and stories.
• NEW! History of Astronomy
Ideal age range: Elementary school through adult
We look at how humanity's view of the universe has changed since ancient
times—from the early observations of the ancient Greeks and Chinese, to
the scientific advancements of the Renaissance, to current discoveries
being made by human and robot explorers using cutting-edge technology.
• NEW! Astronomy and Popular Culture
Ideal age range: High school through adult
Astronomy has long had an influence on our popular culture.
Learn about the real stars and constellations that have inspired
character names and story elements in franchises like Star Trek, Harry
Potter, Doctor Who, Star Wars, and more.
• The Christmas Star
Offered November through January
Ideal age range: High school through adult
The biblical book of Matthew talks of three Magi or "Wise Men" being led
by a star to the new Messiah. What exactly was the "star" that they saw?
We examine a number of theories in this astronomical celebration of the
Christmas season.
• Music and Astronomy
Ideal age range: High school through adult
Astronomy has inspired composers and songwriters throughout the ages.
This immersive concert/lecture under the dome showcases music inspired
by the stars and planets, and includes live keyboard performances of
pieces such as Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" and Debussy's "Clair de
Lune," as well as original music by composer (and astronomy presenter)
Ron Mallory.
• Custom Shows
We can design planetarium shows based around your specific
curriculum needs, science standards, or badge requirements! Contact us
for more information.
NON-PLANETARIUM OPTIONS
• Star Party: ~60 minutes
Ideal age range: Elementary school through adult
We bring three telescopes (4", 6", and 8"-diameter Newtonian reflectors)
to show your group the sights visible in the night sky! Depending on the
time of year and what is visible, we may look at the moon, planets, and/or
various "deep-sky" objects (nebulas, star clusters, and galaxies). A
nighttime, outdoor activity; in case of cloudy skies, indoor activities
can be planned as a backup.
• Lectures: ~40-50 minutes
Most of our planetarium shows can also be presented in a non-dome,
"PowerPoint"-style lecture format for venues with limited space or
larger crowds.
Contact us for more information.
©2024 Ad Astra Planetarium
"Ad Astra" is Latin for "To the Stars." Keep looking up!