Fiske Planetarium, Boulder, CO - Attraction

The Fiske Planetarium in Boulder, CO offers many shows and classes to help people of all ages to learn more about astronomy. They have many options to encourage an interest in the stars, both for families and also for school classes.

The planetarium has a number of popular exhibits. Some of these are hands-on activities that can help stir the imagination about astronomy and things that are "out there."

There are plenty of shows available and these include various stellar events or features of our universe, and solar system. Some of these are pre-recorded, and others of them are live presentations by astronomers. The planetarium is right next door to the Sommers Bausch Observatory.

One very popular event at the planetarium is the public laser shows that are performed here on Friday nights. The lasers interact with the music of such rock performers as Michael Jackson, Aerosmith, Bob Marley, the Dave Matthews Band, MUSE, Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and many more. These shows take place on every Friday night at 9:30 PM and at 10:45 PM.

The planetarium also has a number of presentations that are given in the day and evening hours. There may be as many as two or three events a day - and each one may be different. As an example, this could include a presentation about Hubble, about Kids in Space, a laser show, the Space Station, and much more. You will need to check their online calendar to see what is happening when you are going to be in the area.

Family shows are available on select Saturday afternoons. These are available on Saturdays at 2 PM and also at 3:15 PM. The Observatory is also open to the public for viewing after 8 PM on Fridays. Groups can also be scheduled, and if they have 15 people or more, they can get a 20% discount on the cost of tickets.

Teachers are also encouraged to bring their class or group to the planetarium and observatory. They have many exhibits and classes - both pre-recorded and live - and they are also age appropriate for your group. Star shows are also available for school groups and their auditorium can handle up to 200 people. There will be a small per-person charge, but a slight discount is available if more than one event is scheduled at the same time. Classes can schedule a meeting Monday through Friday. Some classes are also available in Spanish.

An alternative to bringing your class to the planetarium is to let them come to you. They have a portable and inflatable planetarium that can be set up in a gym, or other place. They can seat up to 30 people and they are also wheelchair accessible.

Visitors to the planetarium will need to get a ticket before going in to any show. Tickets can be purchased online or within 15 minutes of any show. It is open between the hours of 9 AM until 4:30 PM on weekdays. Special shows are available on selected evenings and on Saturdays.