The Brown Planetarium is open this weekend and next for free public programs. Learn about the potential natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem or see Big Bird and Elmo explore the Moon with their friend Hu Hu Zhu.
The Christmas Star
Fridays: Dec. 6, 13 at 5pm & 6:30pm (special early showing added)
Saturdays: Dec. 7, 14 at 5:00pm & 6:30pm
Over the years many people have tried to explain the appearance of the Star of Bethlehem, as described in the Bible. Can the star be explained as an exploding star, a comet, or some other natural event in the sky? Potential natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem and common modern-day misconceptions will be discussed.
Suitable for all ages 10+, all ages are welcome.
One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure
Saturdays: Dec. 7, 14 at 3:30pm
"One World, One Sky" is a brilliant program that follows Sesame Street's Big Bird and Elmo as they explore the night sky with Hu Hu Zhu, a new friend from China. Together, they take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, where they discover how different it is from Earth. They will also find shapes in the sky that will help them find the North Star. This cross-cultural adventure opens children's eyes to the sky, helping them see how people all over the world are connected.
Best suited for families and groups with pre-K through 1st grade learners, all ages are welcome.
Program Information
- The planetarium is located on the west end of the Cooper Science Building, at 2111 W. Riverside Ave. in Muncie.
- No reservations or tickets are required. Cash donations are accepted at the door.
- Programs start promptly at the advertised time. Doors close 15 minutes after showtime and no late entry is permitted after that time.
- Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. We recommend arriving early as seating is done on a first-come, first-served basis and seating is limited. We offer hands-on activities before most shows.
- Programs run approximately 50 minutes long, which includes a live sky tour.
- No food, drinks, gum, candy are allowed in the planetarium.
- Cellphones and any electronics that emit light must be silenced or turned off at the start of all programs. Please refrain from wearing light-up shoes to planetarium programs.
- Anyone under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult.
- We greatly appreciate your support to make our programs possible.
For directions and parking information, as well as general policies, please visit the Charles W. Brown Planetarium website.