INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Imagine relaxing in a favorite recliner as the light dims and the wonders of the universe illuminate. Planets orbit, stars twinkle and meteors streak through the Milky Way as participants explore space and learn fascinating details about astronomy and ancient history.
In the words of Jon U. Bell, IRSC Hallstrom Planetarium Director, “The planetarium is a wonderful place to get to know your universe. You can view the constellations, learn about stars and traverse the wonders of the cosmos.”
The planetarium boasts an exciting lineup for the 2015-2016 Starlight Series. The following shows are presented Friday at 6 and 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 1 and 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $3 and can be purchased in person at the IRSC Box Office or by phone 30 minutes prior to show time.
Kick off the season with “First and Farthest,” which celebrates mankind’s great accomplishments in the Space Race, from the first rockets to the first man on the moon. This show sparks memories for those who experienced the Space Race and inspires new generations to keep exploring the universe. Show dates are Nov. 6, 7, 20 and 21.
Next, watch the “Star of Winder” in search of the star that may have guided the Magi to Bethlehem more than 2000 years ago. Find out how an astronomer might explain this great mystery. This show on Dec. 4, 5, 11 and 12 has been a family holiday tradition at the Hallstrom Planetarium since 1993.
Start the New Year with a whirlwind tour of the Universe in Cosmic Zoom. Start with the stars and constellations, then sail past the moon, sun, planets, nebulae, star clusters and the great barred spiral of the Milky Way outward to distant galaxies and far-flung quasars. Show dates are Jan. 22 and 23, Feb. 5 and 6, and Mar. 11 and 12.
Round out the season with “Planet Crumbs,” which analyzes small objects such as asteroids, cometary bodies, and even Pluto – the ninth world – that are left over from the formation of the solar system. Show dates are Apr. 22 and 23, May 13 and 14, and June 10 and 11.
In addition to the Starlight Series, come to the Planetarium at 11 a.m. on select Saturdays for “Kid Space” as children ages 4 to 12 go on scientific voyages of discovery to learn about the stars, constellations, moon, planets and exploration of outer space. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
In “Legends of the Night Sky” on Nov. 7 and 21, find out how Perseus and Andromeda made their way into the night sky. Celebrate the holiday spirit on Dec. 5 and 12 with Ornaments in the Sky. Travel from Earth to the stars and galaxies in a grand “Trip Through Space” on Jan. 23, Feb. 6 and Mar. 12. Finally, learn everything you want to know about Space Shapes/Sizing Up Space on Apr. 23, May 14 and Jun. 11.
For more information contact the Indian River State College Box Office at (772) 462-4750 or 1-800-220-9915. Box Office hours are Monday – Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the IRSC Main Campus in Fort Pierce.
