Astronomy for Grown-Ups

Join us for a new series of live planetarium programs for adults this spring that explores big questions in space science and the latest discoveries in the cosmos. The shows will take place the first Wednesday of each month, with a different theme each month.

Wednesday, May 7 — Halley’s Comet
Imagine being a pilot, flight crew member, or passenger on a trip to fly by Halley’s Comet, when it returns in 2061. What might you have to do, and learn, to prepare for a trip from the Earth to the vicinity of this celestial wanderer? Imagine seeing the comet not from the Earth’s surface, but alongside it, as it tears around the Sun. You have less than 40 years to study before your trip—better get started!

Wednesday, June 4  — The Secrets Hidden in Light
Prisms split white light into colors, and each element has a unique “barcode” of light it emits or absorbs, but there’s far more hidden in those colorful patterns. Discover the basics of spectroscopy, the technique astronomers use to reveal the elements which make up the Universe, and try it out for yourself.

Wednesday, July 2 — Celestial Navigation
This month, learn how the Sun, Moon, and stars can guide your travels! Discover the traditional methods of celestial navigation that helped early explorers find their way and laid the groundwork for today’s GPS and mapping technologies.

Recommended for ages 18+; 60-minute show plus Q&A. Advance reservations are encouraged.