Planetarium announces fall schedule
The planetarium at Henderson State University’s Reynolds Science Center has scheduled four public shows this fall. From the secrets of the sun to a continuous barrage of brilliant meteors, visitors will learn about the solar system on the planetarium’s 360-degree panoramic screen. Numerous projectors are used to display video and slides, which are combined with a modern sound system.
The following shows are scheduled:
Fire Fall (27 minutes)
Sept. 10 & 24 at 7 p.m.
Throughout Earth’s violent history, impacts from comets and asteroids have mercilessly shaped its surface. The ancient barrage continues today from harmless meteors to mountain-sized boulders wandering perilously close to Earth. Terrifying and majestic, these invaders from space are capable of utter destruction, yet they have delivered life-giving water and most of the organic materials necessary for life.
Secrets of the Sun (21 minutes)
Oct. 8 & 22 at 7 p.m.
Experience an intimate look at the role the sun plays in the life of our solar system. From the nuclear forces churning at the heart of the sun to the mass ejections of solar material into the surrounding space, viewers will witness the power of the sun and its impact on the planets, and ultimately life on Earth. This show will trace the life cycle of the sun itself, going back to its beginnings and moving forward in time to its eventual death.
Astronomy – 3,000 Years of Stargazing (34 minutes)
Nov. 12 & 19 at 7 p.m.
Throughout time, the sky has piqued our curiosity. Eclipses, the regular cycle of the seasons, the rising and setting of the moon, sun, and planets, the motion of the stars — all have fascinated mankind since our earliest ancestors first looked up. Monuments constructed across our home planet, from Stonehenge to Machu Picchu, bear witness to humanity’s ancient fascination with the stars.
Mystery of the Christmas Star (31 minutes)
Dec. 3, at 7 p.m., and Dec. 8 at 6 p.m.
Journey back over 2000 years to Bethlehem as we seek to discover a scientific explanation for the star the wise men followed to find the baby Jesus.
The shows are open to the public. There is an admission charge of $3 per person, or $1 with student ID. Extreme darkness is important to the effects of the shows, therefore, late arrivals will not be admitted. For more information, call 870-230-5170.