Planetarium shows
The Wayne State Planetarium offers shows for the Wayne State University community of students, faculty and staff, K-12 schools, math and science centers, special interest groups and community organizations and the general public.
Tickets and seating
- Admission is free.
- A reservation for public planetarium shows is recommended.
- Two-thirds of seats are reservable the Sunday before the show.
- One-third of seats are available for walk-ins at the door.
- Ticketed attendees should arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the show. After this time, unclaimed seats will be released to walk-in members of the public.
- Our planetarium holds 60 people. If you're interested in bringing a large group, please make a group reservation for a private show.
Public shows
The Wayne State Planetarium presents public planetarium shows on a regular basis. Our public shows are presented on most Friday evenings throughout the year.
Our planetarium shows consist of three parts:
- Interactive demonstrations
- The current night sky
- Fulldome film
We begin with an interactive demonstration, Learn About Size and Distance in Our Solar System. Watch as we compare the diameters of the Earth, Moon and Mars, and show you how to determine the distances between these celestial objects. As the lights go down, we show you how to navigate the current night sky. Learn how to identify constellations, asterisms, planets and more!
Note: Public shows are free and open to everyone. Due to strong interest, we recommend you reserve seats if you are coming from a distance.
Young astronomer shows
Geared towards children under 10 and their families, our young astronomer shows last about one hour. While children are welcome at our Friday evening shows as well, these shows are specifically designed with the younger astronomer in mind.
Science Under the Dome
The planetarium offers a lecture series titled Science Under the Dome which is free and open to the public. RSVP is required for these free public lectures.
Astronomy and physics students
Planetarium shows constitute an integral part of the Wayne State B.A. in Astronomy program and the AST 2010 Descriptive Astronomy course curriculum. Students enrolled in AST2010 have two opportunities to visit the planetarium during the semester.
Learn more about shows astronomy/physics student shows
K-12 shows
The Wayne State Planetarium offers private shows for K-12 school groups, math and science centers, special interest groups and community organizations for a fee. We offer a variety of educational outreach programs that incorporate our planetarium shows with physics demonstrations (Phantastic Physics Phenomena) and hands-on science activities.
Our planetarium programs include comprehensive astronomy education for grades K-12 aligned with Michigan science standards and seats 60 people.
Wayne State groups
Wayne State University registered student organizations, departments and other groups may reserve the planetarium for events or organize private planetarium shows for your group at zero or minimal cost depending on circumstances.