Kallie Schultz Board Member | Official Website
Kallie Schultz Board Member | Official Website
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will host a series of planetarium and laser light shows this April at the Allen F. Blocher Planetarium. The planetarium's regular public shows will be held at 2 p.m. each Sunday, offering presentations focused on the night sky over Central Wisconsin. These one-hour events are free to the public, though donations are encouraged to support the programs.
A variety of themed shows are planned. On April 6th, the program "The Sun, Our Living Star" will present unprecedented images of the Sun’s surface. "Night of the Titanic" on April 13th will provide insights into historical ocean currents, the formation and drift of icebergs, and the impact of global warming. On April 27th, "One Sky Project" will explore different cultural interpretations of the night sky through short films.
Evening laser light shows are scheduled from April 2nd through 6th, with performances at 7, 8, 9, and 10 p.m. each day. Tickets, available from 6:30 p.m., are priced at $7 for adults, $6 for students, and $5 for UWSP students with a valid ID. Featured shows include "Laser Pink Floyd: The Wall," "Laser Beatles," "Laser Taylor Swift," and "Laser Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon."
The Junior Scientist program offers sessions on select Sundays from 3:40-4:10 p.m., preceded by book readings starting at 3 p.m. The program on April 27th includes "Larry - Cat in Space," a cartoon about a curious cat's lunar journey. This program is presented in partnership with the UW-Stevens Point Museum of Natural History.
Seating in the planetarium is limited to 55 people and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups of eight or more can arrange private showings for a fee by contacting 715-346-2208 or making an online request.
The UW-Stevens Point Science Building at 2001 Fourth Ave. houses the planetarium, and free parking is available in Lot D and other campus lots after 7 p.m. and on weekends. Stargazing sessions may be held on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings at Colman Field, weather permitting. Events are contingent on clear skies and temperatures above 15 degrees Fahrenheit. For weather updates, visit the planetarium's website.
For more information, go to: https://www.uwsp.edu/smcpa/blocher-planetarium.