Planetarium Education

The Nature Center's planetarium provides visitors with the opportunity to view the motion of the stars, constellations, moon, and planets in tonight's night sky. As the only planetarium in the National Park Service, it enables visitors to compare the night sky with urban light pollution to the ideal viewing conditions of the country.

Pre-K-2 The Sky Above Us (1/2 hr) This introductory planetarium show is a shortened version of our "Wonders of the Night Sky" program. It is geared for the youngest of astronomers.

1-3 The Native Americans' Night Sky (1 hr) An exploration of the night sky with an emphasis on Native American legends.

2-4 Wonders of the Night Sky (1 hr) See the night sky from the city and countryside while never leaving your seat. Come on this journey to study stars and the movements of the Earth and Moon. We'll also identify constellations and hear of their stories.

4-6 Our Universe (1 hr) The conceptual science of astronomy is made tangible through the combination of active demonstrations and a planetarium program focusing on our universe. If you would like to schedule a planetarium program for older students, please call the Nature Center and we will tailor a program specifically for your group.

4-6 Searching the Solar System (1 hr) Does life exist outside our planet? Find out if it's possible to live on neighboring planets.

4-8 Night Sky to Freedom (1 hr) Explore how and why African-Americans escaping slavery on the Underground Railroad used the night sky to lead them to freedom.