William M Staerkel Planetarium
 
seasons

 



 

Weekend Features
(click here for a full schedule)

Prairie Skies

A live-narrated tour of the wonders of tonight's sky, accompanied by some of the legendary stories of the ancient sky. Find out what constellations and planets are visible tonight and how to find them. This show is updated seasonally and is intended for all ages.  

 

The Stargazer

Come along on a journey to the stars with University of Illinois Astronomer James B. Kaler in an exciting program written and produced by the Great Lakes Planetarium Association.  Nichelle Nichols (from the original "Star Trek") and Dr. Kaler narrate this personal look at gravity, light, and the spectrum and how they help us decipher the lifestyles of the stars.



Solar System Safari

NEW FOR 2008! A jungle adventurer uses a magical camera to take visitors on an exciting safari through the Solar System. The Sun, Moon, planets, and dwarf planets come to life, taking on unique personalities and describing their own characteristics and eccentricities. Learn about the planets and the current status of Pluto.

Ladies & Gentlemen . . . .the Doors!

The music of Jim Morrison lives in the dome of the planetarium!  Let us "light your fire" as we belt out tunes from one of music's most influential bands.  The "crystal ship" sail on Friday and Saturday nights this fall ONLY on selected weekends!   Click on the schedudle link at the top of the page for a calendar.  Listen to 105.9 WGKC to win tickets!   These are the final performances of the Doors light show as we look to convert to an immersive video system in the near future!

** Warning **
Light shows include loud music and intense flashing lights, which may be disorienting to some people. A chemical fog is used, which may irritate some respiratory problems. Light shows are not intended for pre-teens. No children under the age of six will be admitted.

 

 

 

 • William M. Staerkel Planetarium • 
Parkland College • 2400 West Bradley Ave. • Champaign, IL. 61821
Office Phone • 217.351.2568 • Show Hotline • 217.351.2446