By Liz Mitchell
The Ingram Planetarium in Sunset Beach offers a rare opportunity to view the sky and learn a little bit about science. Special free summer family programs run until the end of August and interactive exhibits are a prelude to the evening’s spectacular dome show in the Sky Theater. The free 45-minute programs begin at noon. Beginning Skywatching is the Monday topic with a sky map introduction to the three constellations of the summer triangle. Navigating the Seas is the Tuesday program with details of celestial navigation used by sailors. On Wednesdays Turtle Talk explains the life cycle of sea turtles including current state and local turtle activities underway and the programs protecting the endangered species. Black Holes are the Thursday topic – the real story of density, mass, volume and true workings of a black hole. Solar System Playdough is the Friday activity with fun for all ages in sizing up the universe.
Sky Theater shows are presented on the hour beginning at 1 p.m. and continue until 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, when a live star show follows each program. Two Pieces of Glass at 1 p.m. explains the telescope and how it works. Oasis in Space at 2 p.m. is a voyage through the solar system in search of water. Zulu Patrol Under the Weather at 3 p.m. is especially for young audiences to learn about weather with an experience including the inhabitants of Planet Zulu and their Pet Gorga. The Seven Wonders at 4 p.m. covers the wonders of the ancient world plus seven cosmic wonders in space. The Astronaut at 5 p.m. is a rocket launch experience.
Laser music shows at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday are a light show on the sky dome accompanying loud rock music ranging from the Beatles to Pink Floyd to Metallica. A few of these are especially for adults and not suitable for children. Check the daily schedule for details.
Admission for each program in the Sky Theater or Laser Music Show is $8 for adults; $6 for seniors or students; $4 for ages 3 and 4 and free for children 2 and younger. For more information visit museumplanetarium.org or call 910.575.0033.