Looking for something to do with the kids this summer? Or maybe just an activity for yourself? How about visiting the galaxy from the most comfortable seat in an air-conditioned building?!

The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is located inside the Grand Rapids Public Museum. It features the latest Digistar projection technology and immersive surround sound for an incredible sight and sound experience.

As a child, I loved going on field trips to the museum. I never realized until I was an adult, that you could visit the planetarium without having to have a sign a permission slip and ride a school bus.

Currently the Planetarium is offering five different shows throughout the week...

Escher's Universe: This presentation takes you to M.C. Escher's artist studio where his most iconic works are displayed. See his unique ability to join science and art. See how his used things like shapes and three-dimensional reconstructions.

Starlight Safari: This show has a live presenter who will show you the creatures that are hiding in the nighttime sky.

Under Starlit Skies: This program also has a live presenter to help you explore the wonders of the night sky. You will learn tips and tricks to help you find planets and constellations from your own backyard.

Subatomic - Detecting the Unseen: Over the years, curiosity has inspired those with brilliant minds to unravel the secrets of the universe. Scientists have unraveled more of those secrets with technological marvels and collaboration from around the world.

Dark Side - The Light Show: This show is a Chaffee Planetarium original production, using a new generation of planetarium technology set to the music of Pink Floyd’s "The Dark Side of the Moon". This is a favorite of many who visit the Planetarium. The museum does issue the following warning for this program: "This show contains some adult language and dizzying effects. It is not recommended for individuals prone to motion sickness, seizures, or light sensitivity. This is an entertainment show."

Admission costs vary. For a Member the cost is $2 per person. If you combine the Planetarium visit with the museum's General Admission it is $4 per person. If you only want to visit the Planetarium the cost is $5 per person. Children 2 and younger are free, but tickets are required.

For more information and show times, check out the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium website.

And do you know how the Planetarium got it's name? It is named after Grand Rapids astronaut Roger B. Chafee, who unfortunately lost his life in the Apollo 1 spacecraft fire in 1967.

The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is located inside the Grand Rapids Public Museum at 272 Pearl Street, right next to the Grand River, in downtown Grand Rapids.

 

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