Planetarium
The Bowling Green State University Planetarium is a 118–seat public science theater serving BGSU students, area schools, and the public of northwest Ohio. Set under a 40-foot dome, the Minolta star projector can show the sky as it would be seen from any place on the Earth at any time, including the Sun, Moon, planets, and more than 4000 stars. The Planetarium's 50 slide projectors, video projection system, special visual effects projectors, multi-channel sound system, and Omni-Q automation controls are used to create educational multimedia programs on astronomy and other topics. The Planetarium was opened in 1984 and is operated by the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
University Astronomy Courses use the Planetarium as a classroom year-round.
Public Planetarium Programs open to all are given from September through early May each year. Programs feature a star talk showing the current evening sky followed by a multimedia planetarium show. Weekend programs are followed by stargazing at the Observatory on the roof, weather permitting. For the current schedule, see the Planetarium Calendar in the BGSU Calendar.
Area school classes and other groups can arrange presentation of planetarium programs between September and early May. More than 50 different programs are available for all ages from pre-school through adults. These include multimedia shows, live interactive programs, and workshops. Further information is available in the Teacher's Guide.
The Planetarium and Observatory employ a team of students who help present public programs and stargazing sessions.
For further information, contact the Planetarium Director, Dr. Dale Smith by phone at 419–372–8666 or by email at dsmith@newton.bgsu.edu