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The Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium is offering programs for all ages and interests in May, including a laser concert for children as young as three, a special meditation program, and a star show focusing on what other types of life may exist in the universe. The following shows have been scheduled:

Rockin’ Rocket Ride, Saturday, May 4, 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, May 4, 4 p.m.

Our youngest audience members can sing along with songs by a variety of artists in this fun laser program. Selections 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)

The Sky Above, sensory-friendly program, Saturday, May 4, 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, May 4, 7 p.m.

Using the Planetarium’s DigitalSky digital theater, experience a guided tour of the stars and constellations of the night sky. Weather permitting, the 3M Observatory—located right outside the Planetarium—will be open after the show. (Recommended for ages 8-adult)

Pink Floyd’s The Wall laser concert, Saturdays, May 4, 11, 18, 8 p.m.

This classic laser concert features hits from the band’s popular album, including “Another Brick in the Wall,” “Hey You,” and “Comfortably Numb.”

Sunset Meditation, Friday, May 10, 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. View an amazing sunset as you “travel” from the Grand Canyon to the North Pole. Then, relax under a night sky filled with stars and glimpses of the Northern Lights. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

Accidental Astronauts, Saturdays, May 11 & 18, 3 p.m.

Robo-kids Cy, Annie, and their dog, Armstrong, get a lot more than they expected from their class field trip in an impromptu adventure. Travel along exploring the Sun, Earth, and Moon, with a witty starship computer as navigator and guide. Race along on the surface of the Moon. Collect an asteroid sample in low gravity. Survive a solar storm. Find new appreciation for the unique beauty of Earth. Journey along with the Accidental Astronauts in this epic dome theater adventure. (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Laser Pop Rock, Saturdays, May 11 & 18, 4 p.m.

Enjoy this laser concert, where images “dance” across the dome while we listen to songs you can sing along with, including "Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi, “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors, “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Jae Jepsen, and "Shake It Off" by Taylor Swift.  (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Out There: A Quest for Extraterrestrial Life, Saturdays, May 11 & 18, 7 p.m.

For thousands of years, we thought that we were the center of the Universe. Since then, science has taught us an astonishing amount about our cosmos.  But even before we knew that our Sun was just one of many ordinary stars, people began to question if we were alone in the Universe. It is not the question of whether life exists elsewhere, but where we will have to look, and how we will find it — out there. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

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.

Planetarium laser shows include loud music, flashing lights, and rapidly moving graphics, all in a dark environment, and therefore may not be recommended for those who are sensitive to these conditions or have a medical condition that could be exacerbated by them.

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 17, 2024

PR #103