Astronomy for Grown-Ups

Explore big questions in space science and the latest discoveries in the cosmos through this monthly planetarium series for adults, held on the first Wednesday of each month.

Wednesday, August 5 — All About Black Holes
At the core of our galaxy is the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A*. It is nearly five million times the mass of the Sun and surrounded by a swarm of stars that orbit it at speeds of up to 15,000 miles per second. In August, peer into the night sky toward our galactic core and learn about black holes, which may hold the key to everything from the formation of galaxies and the long-term survival of life, to the nature of time and whether our Universe is the only one.

Wednesday, September 2 — Infamous Misconceptions
What causes the seasons? Is there gravity in space? Is the Sun really a gigantic star? Does the Moon pull the ocean to make the tides? Many of us absorbed lessons about space which, as it turns out, aren’t quite right. We’ll review the sometimes subtle, often surprising reality behind some common misconceptions. Feel free to come with your own questions, and we’ll examine those as well!

Recommended for ages 18+; 60-minute show plus Q&A. Advance ticket purchase is encouraged.

Photo: Jeana Wunderlich