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Mallory Kountze Planetarium Durham Science Center Room 135 |
Live Programs: Our live, interactive lecture series are narrated by a planetarium staff member.
WHAT'S UP: (For general audiences, Age 3 and older; about 1 hour long.) These programs feature seasonal constellations, star patterns that are visible in early evening during the current season. Discussion includes the Sun, Moon, and planets and usually includes a mixture of scientific information, mythology, and current events in astronomy & space exploration. Multimedia displays include star field simulations, still images and/or video.
Scouting Programs: Programs with content tailored to help Boy Scout, Brownie Scout, Cub Scout and Girl Scout youth groups attain popular astronomy-related badges and awards. Training also available to assist leaders in conducting their own astronomy programs. Private bookings only; show length and fee vary. Contact planetarium staff for further information.
Other shows: Program content tailored to specific age groups, or to attain specific educational objectives. Private bookings only; Contact planetarium staff for further information.
Pre-recorded Programs: A variety of pre-recorded planetarium programs may be booked for private shows; others may be available. Our astronomy programs may have specific educational objectives and may be targeted to specific age groups. Program lengths vary, but are generally 40 minutes to 1 hour. Please review the descriptions of currently available programs:
Little Star: (Ages Pre-K through 3rd Grade; about 40 minutes long) A family-oriented program geared toward younger children. A little star explores our galaxy, learning about the different types of stars in the Universe, and about the planets in our solar system.
Rusty Rocket's Last Blast: (Ages Pre-K through 3rd Grade; about 40 minutes long) Also geared toward younger audiences. A talking rocket takes a group of young rockets on one final tour of the Solar System, teaching them about the Sun, the Moon, and our planets.
The Secret of the Cardboard Rocket: (Ages K through 5th Grade; about 40 minutes long) Two children build a "packing crate" rocket, then explore the wonders of the Universe using their imaginations.
More Than Meets the Eye: (Ages 5th Grade through Adult; about 40 minutes long) This show is about the pleasures of observational astronomy and the wonders that can been seen from the backyard. Includes imagery from large telescopes including the Hubble Space Telescope.
Endless Horizons: (Ages 7th Grade through Adult; about 45 minutes long) This star show highlights the critical periods of exploration that have shaped our view of our world and of the Universe. It discusses exploration of our oceans, the continents, and outer space. Narrated by actor Patrick Stewart, who portrayed Captain Jean Luc Picard in the Star Trek: The Next Generation series. Includes Evolutionary content.
Galaxies: (Ages 7th Grade through Adult; about 45 minutes long) This star show takes us to deep space on a journey through the Milky Way Galaxy and to the galaxies beyond. Written by the award-winning writer/host of PBS' The Creation of the Universe, Timothy Ferris. Includes Evolution content.
The Cowboy Astronomer: (All Ages; about 45 minutes) A cowboy gives his perspective of the night sky and the things he has learned over a lifetime of stargazing. Narrated by TV & radio personality, western humorist and cowboy poet Baxter Black.
The People: (All Ages; about 45 minutes) A program featuring legends and sky lore of Native American Indian peoples. Stories about Creation and the mysteries of the Milky Way Galaxy, told by members of several different American Indian nations. Includes Creation content.
Current Shows Hotline: (402) 554-3722
Public Shows: Kountze Planetarium offers astronomy programs to the general public on the first weekend of each month. During the academic year, public shows are generally scheduled for first Friday and Saturday evenings, no reservations (walk-in basis). During the summer months, matinee shows will be scheduled for first Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Private Shows: Planetarium programs are also available as privately-scheduled group shows*. Both educational and general interest programs are available. Please call our office during regular business hours at (402) 554-2219 for further information or to schedule a private show.
*NOTE: All private show scheduling subject to personnel & theater availability.
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