Planetarium Presents Alien Landscapes Friday, April 19

VALDOSTA - Valdosta State University’s planetarium will present its final show of the 2012-13 season titled “Alien Landscapes” Friday, April 19. There will be three showings starting at 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.

“Our last planetarium show of the season will take us to realms beyond the Earth, where the sky is not blue, the Sun is not yellow and there is more than one moon,” said Dr. Kenneth Rumstay, VSU Observatory director. “These alien landscapes may reflect the imaginations of artists, but they are based upon the rigorous sciences of astronomy and planetary geology.”

Dr. Martha Leake, professor of planetary science, will begin the show with some sights found on Earth and then head out into the worlds of the solar system.

“We will then get a glimpse of the possible landscapes to be found on planets orbiting other stars,” said Rumstay.

Planetarium shows are free of charge and are suitable for ages five and up. Seating in the planetarium is limited to 47 visitors per show. On show night, beginning at 6 p.m. free tickets for any of the three shows will be distributed on a first-come, first served basis at the planetarium, until all seats are filled. Those holding tickets for a particular show must return to the planetarium fifteen minutes prior to show time. If weather permits they may enjoy stargazing and telescopic viewing on the roof before or after the program.

The VSU planetarium is located in Nevins Hall, room 3004 on the third floor. Limited public parking will be available in front of Nevins Hall and additional parking is available in the Admissions Office lot across Patterson Street and in the Oak Street parking garage. For additional information please contact the Department of Physics, Astronomy and Geosciences at (229) 333-5752.