WCU Planetarium - Public Shows

The Department of Geology and Astronomy operates the University Planetarium which houses a Spitz A-5 planetarium projector. The planetarium is used for astronomy class lectures and labs as well as for school and public programs. Approximately 50 schools and other groups attend the programs each year, and annual attendance approaches 2,000.  We offer weekly shows for educational groups (including pre-K) during the fall and spring semesters. The planetarium holds monthly evening shows for the general public. These shows are held on the second Friday of each month. Shows start promptly at 7pm and run approximately one hour in length. Late arrivals will not be permitted to enter the planetarium.

To make a reservation or inquire about additional information please contact Dr. Vanlandingham at kvanlandingham@wcupa.edu or 610-436-2788.

The show will consist of an overview of what is visible in the current night sky. In addition to this, each month will have a short presentation with a special focus on some aspect of astronomy. The shows are appropriate for all ages however parents should keep in mind that the planetarium does get very dark and small children may find this frightening. 

The specific dates and topics of the remaining shows for the 2009-2010 series are as follows:

December 11, 2009 - Our Amazing Sun - SHOW IS FULL
Reservations taken starting November 20

February 12, 2010 - Other Earths
Reservations taken starting January 22

March 19, 2010 - Walking on the Moon*
Reservations taken starting February 26

April 9, 2010 - The Angry Red Planet
Reservations taken starting March 19

May 14, 2010 - Venus: The Evening Star
Reservations taken starting April 23

*This show is being held the third Friday of the month due to spring break.

The shows are free of charge however reservations are required as the planetarium has limited seating. Reservations of up to 8 seats will be taken; children 5 and older must have their own seat. Reservations will not be taken more than three weeks before the date of the show. In the case of full shows, a wait list will be kept.

The Planetarium is located in the Schmucker Science Center on the north campus of West Chester University.  The main entrance to the Schmucker Science Center is on Church St. between University Ave. and Rosedale Ave.  The planetarium is in the link - the one-story round portion of the building that connects the north and south (multi-story) parts of the building.

For the general public shows, visitors may park in the meters along Church St. and Rosedale Ave. (meters are free after 5pm) or in the parking lot behind the Sykes Student Union building, located on Rosedale Avenue.

You will find a campus map here.