The Illinois State University Planetarium is pleased to offer Big Astronomy, running weekends from September 6 through November 16. Showtimes are Fridays at 7:30 p.m., and Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There are no weekend presentations of Big Astronomy while the Planetarium offers its laser-light concerts, September 13-22.
Travel to three major observatories in the mountains of Chile, and meet the people who work there. See the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory, home of the Victor M. Blanco Telescope and its Dark Energy Camera. Visit Cerro Pachón’s Gemini South Observatory, with its eight-meter primary mirror telescope. And finally, travel to one of the driest places on Earth, the Atacama Desert, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array to explore the mysteries of the universe.
After Big Astronomy, we point out many of the highlights found in the current evening sky. These include the bright stars, constellations, and planets currently visible from Central Illinois.
Tickets may be purchased next to the Planetarium beginning 20 minutes before each show. Seating is limited.
Admission prices are as follows: (Cash or check only.)
- Adults: $7
- Children ages 3-4: $5
- Children ages 5-12, seniors, and ISU ID holders: $6
The ISU Planetarium is located in the Felmley Hall of Science Annex, at the intersection of College Avenue and School Street, in Normal. Free parking is available a short distance from the ISU Planetarium in University parking lot F-67, on the east side of School Street.
For more information, including bringing a school group to the Planetarium, please call us at (309) 438-2496.
