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The Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium in Branchburg will present a variety of offerings in January, including a sensory-friendly astronomy and music program, laser and star shows for all ages, and a special meditation night.

In addition, star gazers all over are gearing up for a total solar eclipse that will take place on Monday, April 8. Its path will run from Mexico, through Texas, up to Buffalo, NY, and Vermont. New Jersey residents will see about 90% of the Sun covered by the Moon. The RVCC Planetarium astronomy shows in January, February, and March will include a five-minute presentation explaining a solar eclipse and describing how to view it safely. Solar eclipse glasses also are available to purchase at the Planetarium’s gift shop.

The following shows will be presented at the RVCC Planetarium in January:

Magic Tree House: Space Mission, Saturdays, January 6, 13, and 20, 3 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"?  The show is based on the same-titled, best-selling series of novels. (Recommended for ages 5 and older)

Laser Kids laser concert, Saturdays, January 6, 13, and 20, 4 p.m.

Sing along to familiar tunes while lasers are animated on the dome overhead. Featured songs include “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus, “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond, “Levitating” by Dua Lipa, and “Can’t Stop this Feeling” by Justin Timberlake. (Recommended for ages 6-12)

The Sky Above, sensory-friendly program, Saturday, January 6, 5 p.m.

This sensory-friendly astronomy and music show, approximately 45 minutes in length, is specially designed for families with children on the Autism spectrum or those with developmental disabilities. Neurotypical children are welcome as well. The program, which is presented on a kindergarten level, is appropriate for audiences of all ages. During the show, the doors will remain open so children may freely leave and return if they choose. Lights will be left dim (instead of dark), and the audio will be lowered and kept at a consistent level. The show will include music, laser lights, stories, and information about the planets, the Moon, and constellations.

Astronomy Tonight, Saturday, January 6, 7 p.m.

Using the Planetarium’s DigitalSky digital theater, experience a guided tour of the night sky. Learn about some of the popular constellations visible from sunset to sunrise, as well as the stories behind them. Hear about how and where in the sky to find the brightest planets. Weather permitting, the 3M Observatory will be open after the show. (Recommended for ages 8-adult)

Laser Led Zeppelin, Saturdays, January 6, 13, 20, 27, 8 p.m.

This classic laser concert features the group’s hit songs, including “When the Levy Breaks,” “Stairway to Heaven,” and “Houses of the Holy.”

Sunset Meditation, Friday, January 12, 7 p.m.

How do STEM workers, NASA professionals, athletes, and business executives cope with stress? Mindfulness. Meditation is a powerful tool for maintaining psychological health and resilience. Since the Planetarium offers a dark and quiet space for relaxation, it is the perfect place for meditation. Enjoy a guided meditation experience in the comfortable, reclined seats in the RVCC Planetarium. Relax under a night sky filled with stars, then “travel” from Earth to beyond our galaxy. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

One Sky, Saturdays, January 13, 20, 27, 7 p.m.

People around the world see the same stars, but create different pictures and patterns. This new show at the RVCC Planetarium focuses on the “One Sky Project,” which is a series of short films focusing on exploring patterns as seen by indigenous people from different cultures. Join us as we hear stories from three different cultures and discover which constellations can be viewed in tonight’s sky. (Recommended for ages 8-adult)

Rockin’ Rocket Ride, Saturday, January 27, 3 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)

Lasers for Littles, Saturday, January 27, 4 p.m.

Our youngest audience members are encouraged to sing along with songs by a variety of artists. Songs in this fun laser concert include: “Kalien the Alien” by mr RAY, “I Don’t Want to Live on the Moon” from Sesame Street, “Fruit Salad” by the Wiggles, and “Baby Shark.” (Recommended for ages 3-8)

Planetarium tickets cost $10 for one show, $18 for two shows back-to-back on the same day. Reservations are recommended, but all ticket sales are done at the door on the day of the show. Late admission to Planetarium shows is not permitted. For reservations and information, call 908-231-8805 or email planet@raritanval.edu. For additional information, visit www.raritanval.edu/planetarium. RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 2, 2024

PR #51