WAYNE – Wayne State College’s free planetarium and laser shows continue Feb. 16-17 inside the Fred G. Dale Planetarium.
On Feb. 16, the planetarium show “Earth, Moon, and Sun” will be at 7 p.m., followed by the laser show “Laser Classic Rock” at 8 p.m. “Earth, Moon, and Sun” is designed for children 10 years of age and younger.
On Feb. 17, the planetarium show “Skywatchers of Africa” will be at 1 p.m., followed by the laser show “Laser Fun” at 2 p.m. “Skywatchers of Africa” highlights the diversity of African astronomy, examines cultural uses of the sky that developed throughout history and celebrates the shared human experience.
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.
Guests also may enjoy the lights and music of the many laser shows presented throughout the season, including “Laser Classic Rock,” “Laser Country,” “Laser Beatles” and “Laser Pink Floyd.”
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, they will go to the stairs at the south end of the building and go down to the lowest level. Guests also may 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 visit www.wsc.edu/planetarium and click “Contact the Planetarium” to complete the online reservation form.
For more information and to view the complete schedule of planetarium and laser shows, people may visit www.wsc.edu/planetarium, or contact Dr. Todd Young, director of the planetarium, at 402-375-7471 or [email protected].
Anyone who attends a planetarium show will receive a free pair of solar eclipse glasses.
With a solar eclipse coming April 8, Young is offering a presentation to educate various groups and organizations on the science of solar eclipses.
If people are interested in having Young present this talk to their group, they are asked to contact him directly at 402-3757471 or [email protected]. The presentation can be tailored for any age.
