New show at UofL planetarium opens May 31; Discovery launch also to be shown
May 28th, 2008
The Planets
Opening May 31, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Gheens Science Hall and Rauch Planetarium, north end, Belknap Campus (Directions and parking information)
Opening day shows are at 11 a.m.; noon; 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Tickets May 31 are $5 for everyone and include family friendly activities such as a solar system walk and solar observing.
Launch of space shuttle Discovery
May 31, 5 p.m.
The planetarium will reopen its doors at 5 p.m. for the launch of Discovery to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s Kibo laboratory. Launch times are subject to weather conditions in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Mission details and launch times.
The Rauch Planetarium at the University of Louisville will have a special celebration for the premiere of its new show, “The Planets.”
The 37-minute show provides an in-depth look at each planet and features images from NASA and the Hubble Telescope. Actress Kate Mulgrew, best known for her role in “Star Trek: Voyager,” narrates the show. It’s content is geared to middle and high school students.
Originally produced by the Southeast Planetarium Association, “The Planets” was “enhanced, updated and specifically designed for our dome,” said Rauch Planetarium Director Rachel Connolly.
“It will be shown on a three-projection screen, designed to make the audience feel as though they are traveling through space,” she added.
Future shows and special events at the planetarium will have a heavier focus on education, research and community engagement.
“We are working towards new technology that will expand what the planetarium can offer,” Connolly said. “We can use the planetarium to help people learn and understand in new ways.”
“The Planets” will run through this year. After the May 31 opening, tickets for the show will be $7 for adults and $5 for children and seniors. Show times and more information.
