Feb. 12, 2019—The Bushman Planetarium at Missouri Western State University has public shows planned at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18 and at 7 p.m. Monday, March 2.
The planetarium presents “Black Holes” on Feb. 18. Narrated by film actor John de Lancie (“Q” in the Star Trek TV series), this immersive digital theater program incorporates some of the most visually stunning three-dimensional effects ever created for the dome. Designed for all audiences, this full-length production features 3-D simulations of black holes and the strange physical and visual effects they can create. With the help of science advisors from around the country, audiences will be able to see and feel what it might be like to approach the supermassive black hole at the center of our own Milky Way galaxy, or speculate on the existence of “worm holes,” theoretical portholes in space and time.
The show on March 2 will be “Forces of Nature.” Come close to nature’s most powerful and extreme forces. Cameras capture large-scale volcanoes, earthquakes, and storms as a team of scientists travel the world in an attempt to figure out what causes these dangerous, yet undeniably thrilling natural occurrences. Putting their lives on the line in the name of scientific discovery, the experts forge their way through erupting pits, through volcanic flows, along fault lines, and in cars heading straight for tornados’ eyes. Narrated by Kevin Bacon.
The Bushman Planetarium in Agenstein Hall features a Digistar 4 projection system and a dome that is tilted slightly, rather than directly overhead, making viewing easier. A 17-channel stereo sound system enhances the viewing experience.
Planetarium tickets must be purchased in advance, either online at missouriwestern.edu/planetarium or in person at Agenstein Hall, room 140 during regular business hours (8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday). Tickets are not available at the door.
Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children, students, seniors and military.
Missouri Western State University is a student-centered learning community preparing individuals for lives of excellence through applied learning. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit www.missouriwestern.edu.