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 department also holds monthly evening shows for the general public. These shows are held on the second Friday of each month when WCU classes are in session. The shows consist of an overview of what is currently visible in the night sky. In addition to this, each show includes a short presentation with a special focus on some aspect of astronomy, the topic of which changes each month. 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. Shows start at 7pm and run approximately one hour in length.
For more information on Public Planetarium shows or to sign up for our e-mail list, please visit the following site.
In addition, the department also welcomes school groups of all ages to the planetarium, including pre-K, as well as other private non-school groups (e.g. scout groups, Mom's clubs, etc). However, teachers and parents should be aware that the planetarium gets extremely dark and very young children may find this frightening. Shows are approximately one hour in length, including time for questions. A fee of $2 per person is charged for the show. The planetarium seats 70 people. Teachers with groups larger than this will have to split their classes into smaller sections. Please remember to include teachers and chaperones when determining the size of your group. We can provide two shows back-to-back to accommodate large groups or we can schedule shows on two separate dates. A typical show for school groups consists mainly of a tour of the night sky. This would include pointing out several of the prominent constellations visible at night and some of the mythological stories behind them, the phases of the Moon, the planets that can be seen with the unaided eye, and the motion of the Sun throughout the year. Other topics can be included at the teacher's request.
For more information on School/Group Planetarium shows or to request a show, please visit the following site.