Free public shows offered at Brown Planetarium at BSU in August

David Penticuff, Muncie Star Press
·3 min read

MUNCIE, Ind. –- The Brown Planetarium at Ball State University will host a number of free programs and events this fall for the public.

The programs include presentations centered on the solar eclipses happening in Muncie in October and in April next year. Programs for August include:

Star gazing at the Charles W. Brown Planetarium at Ball State University.
Star gazing at the Charles W. Brown Planetarium at Ball State University.

We Are Stars

Narrated by Andy Serkis, this program seeks to answer some of the biggest questions of all time. What are we made of? Where did it all come from? Explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry, our explosive origins and connect life on Earth to the evolution of the Universe. A family-friendly film full of fun, adventure, and enlightenment. Fridays: Aug. 18, 25 at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays: Aug. 19, 26 at 6:30 p.m.

Most suitable for ages 8+, all ages are welcome.

Summer Skies Live

People often peer into the darkness of the night sky and wonder, “What is out there?” Seemingly dark regions of space are actually filled with nebulae, star clusters, and other galaxies. Come learn how to navigate the sky by using bright stars and constellations with the help of a star chart, and discover what fascinating objects exist deep in space. Saturdays: Aug. 19, 26 at 5 p.m.

Most suitable for all ages 8+, all ages welcome

Eclipse: The Sun Revealed

There will be a total solar eclipse visible from Muncie on April 8, 2024, and a partial solar eclipse visible from Muncie on Oct. 14, 2023. A total solar eclipse is such a spectacular event, it is never too early to start planning for one. Come learn how solar and lunar eclipses happen, and about scientific discoveries that have been supported by total solar eclipses. This show also uses beautiful visuals to explore the historical and cultural view of eclipses, and explains how to safely see these awe-inspiring sights. Saturdays: Aug. 19, 26 at 3:30 p.m.

Most suitable for ages 9+, all ages are welcome.

One free pair of solar eclipse glasses will be provided to each planetarium show guest for a suggested cash donation of $1, while supplies last. Glasses are partially funded through support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

About planetarium shows:

  • Cost: Free, cash donations are accepted at the door. No reservations are required for public planetarium shows − however, plan to arrive early as seating is on a first-come, first-served basis and seating is limited.

  • Runtime: Approximately 50 minutes total with live sky tour.

  • We do our best to have doors open 30 minutes before show time.

Planetarium Information

  • Due to construction being done on the Cooper Science Complex, select parking and pathway access to the planetarium is blocked off. Plan to arrive early to safely navigate the area and arrive on time for the program. Visit our location and transportation webpage for up-to-date information.

  • The planetarium is located on the west end of the Cooper Science Complex, at 2111 W. Riverside Ave., Muncie.

  • Food, drinks, gum or candy are not allowed in the planetarium.

  • Cellphones and any electronics that emit light must be silenced or turned off at the start of all programs. Please refrain from wearing light-up shoes to any planetarium programs.

  • Children 17 years and under should be accompanied by an adult.

  • We greatly appreciate your support to make our programs possible, and cash donations are accepted at the door.

For directions and parking information, as well as general policies, please visit the Charles W. Brown Planetarium website.

This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: Free public shows offered at Brown Planetarium at BSU in August