SC Wisconsin News

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is set to host a series of planetarium and laser light shows throughout March. These events will take place at the Allen F. Blocher Planetarium, offering an engaging experience for attendees interested in astronomy and music.

Planetarium presentations are scheduled for Sundays at 2 p.m., each lasting approximately one hour. These sessions include a 25-minute focus on the night sky over Central Wisconsin, covering bright stars, constellations, and planets. The public can attend these shows free of charge, although donations are welcome to support future programming.

Laser light shows will run from March 26 to March 30, with performances at 7, 8, 9, and 10 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door starting at 6:30 p.m. each evening and are valid only for that day. Admission prices are set at $7 for adults, $6 for students, and $5 for UWSP students with ID.

Scheduled planetarium shows include:

- March 2: “Two Small Pieces of Glass” - A presentation on the history of the telescope.

- March 9: “Seeing! A Photon’s Journey Across Space, Time, and Mind” - Narrated by Neil deGrasse Tyson.

- March 30: “Big Astronomy” - An exploration of those advancing scientific discovery through modern telescopes.

Laser light show themes feature iconic musical acts such as Led Zeppelin (March 26), classic rock legends (March 27), Taylor Swift (March 28), Queen (March 29), and pop artists like Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga (March 30).

Junior Scientist programs will also be offered on select Sundays between March from 3:40 to 4:10 p.m., preceded by book readings starting at 3 p.m. On March 30th, attendees can enjoy “Legends of the Night Sky: Orion,” an animated retelling of Greek mythology.

Seating in the planetarium accommodates up to 55 people on a first-come basis. Groups larger than eight may arrange special viewings by contacting the facility directly or submitting an online request form; fees apply for private bookings.

Located on the second floor of UW-Stevens Point's Science Building at Fourth Avenue in Stevens Point, parking is available in Lot D behind the building. Parking is free after 7 p.m. and during weekends in all university lots.

Stargazing sessions depend on clear skies and temperatures above fifteen degrees Fahrenheit; they occur Monday through Wednesday evenings from Colman Field near Maria Street and Reserve Street corners.

For further details or weather updates related to stargazing sessions, visit https://www.uwsp.edu/smcpa/blocher-planetarium.