Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium

Located within the Public Museum, the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is named after the Grand Rapids-born astronaut who lost his life in the 1967 Apollo 1 spacecraft fire.  The Planetarium is complete with computerized Digistar and laser projectors, producing multiple video and still images and incredible special effects, accompanied by high-powered digital sound.

Seasonal sky shows and special themed productions educate young and old alike about the stars above and our place in the universe.

Catch classic rock shows – like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Radiohead– with dazzling digital effects in our Laser Light Shows.  Note:  Music contains mature language.

Admission

Museum admission plus $3
Museum Members admitted free with tickets from Museum front desk

Laser Light Shows $7/$5 for Tuesday evening show (Seasonal only, check schedule for upcoming shows)
Museum Members admitted free with tickets from Museum front desk

It's out of this world and it's right here in West Michigan. For information on other events in West Michigan visit the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association online at graaa.org

Teachers: look here for the programs available for school groups!

Planetarium

Dark Side of the Moon

Experience classsic rock as never before, accompanied by dazzling visual effects during this laser light show.  (Note: music contains mature lyrics.)  Tickets are $5, free to members.

June 1, 2010 - September 4, 2010
Tuesday8:00 pm

Solar System Safari

Go on safari to the major features of the Solar System including the Sun, the Moon, the eight planets and Pluto in this jungle-themed space adventure.

June 1, 2010 - September 4, 2010
Tuesday7:00 pm
Saturday1:00 pm

The Cowboy Astronomer

In this cowboy's take on stargazing we blend modern science with tales of the west, illustrating how we can all make a personal connection to the sky.

June 1, 2010 - September 4, 2010
Monday2:00 pm
Tuesday2:00 pm
Wednesday2:00 pm
Thursday2:00 pm
Friday2:00 pm
Saturday2:00 pm

Under Starlit Skies

Ever changing, this live tour of the night sky points out prominent stars, constellations, and planets currently visible to the naked eye.  Special astronomical events are also explained.

June 1, 2010 - September 4, 2010
Saturday3:00 pm