Astronomy/Space Science

The "Jupiter Moons" program is perfect for my earth science solar system unit. It adds content & visuals to the unit. It is an excellent graphic unit. I plan to increase with shows on planets.

Winter Skies

Students will learn to use a star chart to locate four constellations in the planetarium sky. The show relates the color of a star to its relative temperature. Its brightness, temperature, and distance from Earth helps explain how we see each star.  The concept of a light year is used to illustrate distance in space.

Our Place On Earth

This planetarium lab experience helps students to understand concepts such as longitude, latitude, the Tropic of Cancer, the Tropic of Capricorn, the Equator, the Prime Meridian, and seasonal changes in both the day and nighttime skies.

Planet Dance

This show begins with exploring our closest star, the Sun, and each planet in our Solar System. The special characteristics of each planet, as well as its moons and/or rings, are discussed and shown in great detail. 

Moon Phases and Tides

A great program for students to learn about the phases and surface characteristics of the moon as well as the moon's effect on the ocean's tides and currents.

Hands-on Universe

The Hands-on Universe curriculum integrates mathematics, science, and technology in the context of exciting astronomical explorations. Through the investigation of the solar system, galaxies, variable stars, and supernovae, students develop problem-solving techniques and critical thinking skills. Using beautiful images of stars, planets, and galaxies, the students are guided through the process of image manipulation and data analysis.

Loneliness Factor

This show deals with the possibility that life could exist on other planets. Students are introduced to the physical characteristics of Mars, they investigate the current efforts being made to search for life in the universe, the evolution of the universe, and the basic chemicals necessary to support life.

Adventures Along the Spectrum

The subject of the program is light, some visible to our eyes and some detectable only by special instruments, but all part of the energy spectrum. It will show students how every day appliances, such as radios and microwave ovens, use part of the energy spectrum to operate.  Scientists use these waves, as well, to unlock the mysteries of the universe.

Astronomy Mini-Unit

Your students will explore the secrets of the universe and will also make some lab materials to explore the sun, stars, and planets. A technology and career unit is included in this special program.

Dawn Of Astronomy

Learn about the ancient discoveries of the Egyptians, Babylonians, and Western European civilizations and their speical buldings for astronomical observation. The presentation includes a multitude of folk-tales and mythologies from those times.

Geometry In Space:

This program explores the practical use of geometry by examining its application to the study of astronomy.  For example, students determine the circumference of the earth or determine the distance to stars using the parallax method.

Kepler's Laws:  

Great for physics and general science courses.  Students will be able to relate Kepler's Laws to Newton's Laws of gravitation and motion.

Universe of Dr. Einstein

An informative history of the life and times of Dr. Albert Einstein. Explains many of his theories.

Motions In Space:

Rotation, revolution and the visible evidence of these motions on the Earth are presented in a hands-on lab using astronomical models and data collection, emphasizing the scientific method. (designed to support high school proficiencies). 

NASA Missions

All the up-to-date NASA missions are covered as well as the latest information about Jupiter and its moons, Mars, killer asteroids, and the new comet mission, Star Dust.  This program is especially good for general science and technology classes. The lecturer is Pam Bowers, Planetarium Director and JPL NASA ambassador.

Earth Science Specials

Plate Tectonics

Based on the work of Dr. Paul D. Lowman (the continental Drift theory), this show involves a full dome projection of the active ridges, faults, spreading centers, and volcanic activity over the past 1 million years. This is a great interactive lesson for earth science classes.

Weather

This program depicts atmospheric circulation patterns including wind system, jet streams and high and low air pressure masses. Students interactively explore pressure systems, storm systems, longitude and latitude. A special section is included on El Nino and La Nina. This show can be used as a summary, review, or introduction to weather.

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Specialty Programs For Grades 9-12

Cell World

This program provides students with a hands-on, inquiry approach to learning about the cell and its organelles. Students actually go inside the cell, which is projected onto our 40 foot dome.

Create A Myth 

Students create their own myth while in the planetarium.  Examples of Greek, Roman and American Indian myths about the stars will be presented during the night sky portion of the show.  Students learn how ancient myths were created.

Follow The Drinking Gourd 

This is a wonderful story of human determination, hardship, and innovation based on the book by Jeanette Winter. Many African Americans managed to escape to the north by following the Big Dipper, which they called, "The Drinking Gourd". Featured in January, February and March.

'Tis The Season 

Treat your students in the world's endearing holiday customs of Christmas around the world. Experience the wonders of the seasonal winter constellations and the mystery of the Star of the East.