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From special laser rock concerts for kids, to star shows focusing on Earth’s violent, natural catastrophic events, to programs featuring music by Bruce Springsteen—the Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium in Branchburg has offerings for every age and interest in August. In addition, weather permitting, the 3M Observatory (located next to the Planetarium) will be open on Friday evenings in August, from sunset to approximately 10 p.m., when the Planetarium is open.

The following shows will be offered in August:

Perfect Little Planet, Thursday, August 1, 2:30 p.m.; Fridays, August 2, 9, 16, 23, 7 p.m.; Saturday, August 24, 2 p.m.
A family from another star system is seeking the perfect vacation spot. Fly over the surface of Pluto, our best known dwarf planet; sail through the rings of Saturn; feel Jupiter’s lightning storms; and walk on the surface of Mars. Which destination will the family choose? (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Astronaut, Thursday, August 1, 3:30 p.m.; Saturday, August 24, 4 p.m.
The exploration of space is the greatest endeavor that humankind has ever undertaken. But what does it take to become an astronaut? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of “Chad,” a test astronaut. Then explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, from floating around the International Space Station to maneuvering through microscopic regions of the human body. The presentation is made possible with a grant from FirstEnergy Foundation. (Recommended for ages 10 and older)

Our Violent Planet, Fridays, August 2 & 9, 8 p.m.
We live on our planet’s fractured crust plates that pull apart, collide, grind past each other, and even sink below one another, producing violent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and catastrophic walls of water known as tsunamis. This earth science program is paired with the Planetarium’s show identifying the stars in the night’s sky. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

Laser Bon Jovi, Fridays, August 2 & 16, 9 p.m.
The music of New Jersey’s own Jon Bon Jovi is the star of this new laser concert. Sing along with some of the group’s greatest hits, including “Bad Medicine,” “Runaway,” “Livin’ on a Prayer,” and “Wanted Dead or Alive.” (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

Magic Tree House: Space Mission, Wednesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 2:30 p.m.
Join Jack and Annie as they discover the secrets of the Sun, Moon, planets, space travel, and more. Who can help them answer the questions left for them by the mysterious "M"?  This show is based on the same-titled, best-selling series of novels. (Recommended for ages 5 and older)

The Little Star that Could, Wednesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 3:30 p.m.
Travel with an average yellow star on his quest to get a “name” and a planet to call his own. A “cool” red star, a “hot” blue star, a dying star, double stars and the Milky Way Galaxy teach Little Star some important things about being a star. Imagine Little Star’s surprise when he discovers that planets rotate around him. The show offers a great introduction to the different kinds of stars in space, as well as the planets in our solar system. (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Rockin’ Rocket Ride, Thursdays, August 8, 15, 22, 2:30 p.m.
Put on your space suit and blast-off into outer space to visit the Moon, Sun and planets. A lively experience for young people, the show features selected music from "Journey Into Space" by Jane Murphy. (Recommended for ages 3-8)

SkyLights, Thursdays, August 8 & 22, 3:30 p.m.
Our youngest audience members can sing along with songs by mr. RAY (“Family Ride,” “Kalien the Alien”) and Jane Murphy (“Moon Rock Rock,” “The Planet Song”). Some songs are illustrated with lasers, while others feature video images. (Recommended for ages 3-8)

Laser Springsteen, Fridays, August 9 & 23, 9 p.m.
New Jersey’s own Bruce Springsteen is the inspiration for this new laser concert featuring several hit songs by “The Boss.” (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

Storybooks in Space, Thursday, August 15, 3:30 p.m.
Enjoy story time in the Planetarium as youngsters and their families learn about the stars and planets. There is no extra charge for stuffed animal friends. (Recommended for ages 4-8)

To Worlds Beyond: A Journey through the Solar System, Fridays, August 16 & 23, 8 p.m.
Take an amazing journey through our solar system, visiting all of the planets as well as the most famous dwarf planet, Pluto. The show features beautiful images taken from orbiting satellites, which are blended with high-end animations and current information about our neighborhood of planets. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

Kids Jam Laser Concert 2019, Saturday, August 24, 3 p.m.
Enjoy a new mix of music designed to entertain kids and kids at heart while lasers dance on the Planetarium dome overhead. Songs include “Bright” by Echosmith, “YMCA” by the Village People, “Mia” by Bad Bunny, and “Waka Waka” by Shakira. (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Planetarium tickets cost $10 for one show, $16 for two shows on the same day. For reservations and information, call 908-231-8805. For additional information, visit www.raritanval.edu/planetarium.

RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ. For further information, visit www.raritanval.edu.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 22, 2019


PR #5