Planetarium Astronomy Shows
Now Showing
A radio announcement… an excited phone call… and our sly gumshoe, Skye Watcher, is on the case. Explore with Skye and discover what happened to the ex-planet Pluto as she tracks down clues that stretch back hundreds of years! Audiences will have great fun with this brand-new, unique program that looks into the changing status of planets in our Solar System.
"The Case of the Disappearing Planet" was written by Robin Byrne, Associate Professor in the Physics and Astronomy at Northeast State Community College. This program was originally a classic slide-based show and has been re-made for the added capabilities of our new fulldome theater.
"The Case of the Disappearing Planet" Show Trailer
Alternate Program - *NEW*
On days with multiple showtimes, the 2 p.m. show will be a different program from the feature program. The alternate program will change every two months and we'll feature one of the exciting programs from our library or our new "Appalachain Skies" program, a current look at what is visible in the sky around our area.
November & December - "A Part of the Sky Called Orion"
A facinating look at how different cultures viewed a common part of the night sky. This sky lore program explores how the different elements of Greek, Egyptian, and Inupiaq culture led to a unique view of the sky. Told in first-person in the context of the teller's life, we experience their ancient star lore and imagery. This is storytelling at its best. A wonderful blend of imagery, music, and word; it's a treat for all.
January & February - "Appalachian Skies - Winter"
"Appalachian Skies" is an engaging tour of the current night sky. It features our incredible Zeiss ZKP star projector which presents a realistic view of the night sky with its more than 7000 fiber optic stars. This program shows each season and highlights the constellations, planets and deep sky objects which are visible at that time.
The long, clear nights of Winter offer some of the best celestial views. Join us as we explore the many visible and hidden wonders of the Winter sky.
March & April - "Two Small Pieces of Glass" & "Galilieo's Skies"
Our understanding of the world beyond our earthly confines was greatly expanded with the invention of the telescope. "Two Small Pieces of Glass" looks at what man thought about our place in the cosmos before the telescope and how that amazing and simple tool has revealed a universe more spectacular than we could have ever imagined.
Though Galileo did not invent the telescope, his observations of the heavens propelled humanity into a new era of scientific discovery that continues to this day. "Galileo's Skies" takes a first hand look at the observations made by Galileo and how they helped to change our understanding of the world around us.
May & June - "Appalachian Skies - Spring"
"Appalachian Skies" is an engaging tour of the current night sky. It features our incredible Zeiss ZKP star projector which presents a realistic view of the night sky with its more than 7000 fiber optic stars. This program shows each season and highlights the constellations, planets and deep sky objects which are visible at that time.
Explore the Spring skies of our Appalachian region. As the daylight hours begin to lengthen, the night still holds a spectacular array of treasures. We'll highlight the magnificent constellations and other wonders visible during this transitional season.
Connections Soundtrack Available Online or
at the Nature Center Gift Shop.
Show Times
Saturday & Sunday
September through May
1, 2 & 4 p.m.
June, July & August
1, 2, 4, & 5 p.m.
Weekdays
September through May:
4 p.m. - Tues. through Fri. only.
June, July, & August:
1, 2 & 4 p.m.
Planetarium Show Tickets
Tickets are $4.00 per person. Children ages 5 and under will be given a free pass.
Park Association members are free.
Group rates to regularly scheduled public shows are $3.00 per person.The group must have at least 15 people, including children of all ages, and no other discounts may be used with group rates. Groups must make reservations in advance by calling 423-229-9447.
More details about group rates and facility rentals >>
Coming Soon
Venus Transit Program - Spring 2012
"Discover the Stars" - TBA