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Science lovers of all ages are invited to celebrate Astronomy Day on Saturday, April 25, at Raritan Valley Community College in Branchburg with activities, Planetarium stars shows and laser concerts, and a performance in the Theatre at RVCC. The program, which is appropriate for families with children six and older, will begin with hands-on activities celebrating astronomy and science from 1-2 p.m. in the Theatre lobby.

The Theatre will then present Janet’s Planet: A Tour Through the Solar System, at 2 p.m. Kids and adults will discover the wonders of space together, encouraging curiosity and a love of science. The show includes music, captivating visuals, and Janet’s engaging storytelling. Tickets for Janet’s Planet cost $25, $20, and $15. For reservations and information, visit www.rvccArts.org or contact the Box Office, 908-725-3420.

Astronomy Day activities will continue at the RVCC Planetarium, running from 2:30-5 p.m. and from 7-9 p.m. The 3M Observatory—located just outside the Planetarium—will be open for evening viewing, including peeks of the Moon and other celestial objects in the evening sky. Astronomy Day activities are free of charge, but there are additional costs for star and laser shows, as well as Janet’s Planet: A Tour Through the Solar System at the Theatre.

April programs at the Planetarium also will include a new show, Dark Biosphere, Saturdays, April 11, 18, 25, at 7 p.m. Deep beneath the Earth’s crust, with no light, no air, and very little water, in pores and fissures of hard rock, scientists have found an enormous biodiversity of micro-organisms that thrives in extreme conditions. Dark Biosphere challenges us to rethink not only the origin and evolution of life on Earth, but also its possible existence throughout the Universe. Recommended by ages 10-adult, the show has been made possible with a grant from NASA’s Space Grant Consortium. View the Trailer: https://youtu.be/BiF1bg-dISs

Other star shows and laser concerts at the Planetarium open to the public in April include:

The Sky Above, Saturday, April 4, 5 p.m.

The Sky Above, a 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 also welcome. The program, which is presented on a kindergarten level, is appropriate for 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, April 4, 7 p.m.

Using the Planetarium’s upgraded DarkMatter digital theater, experience a guided tour of the night sky. Discover 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)

Perfect Little Planet, Saturdays, April 4, 11, 18, 25, 3 p.m.

A family from another star system is seeking the perfect vacation spot. Join the search as we 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. (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Laser Kids laser concert, Saturdays, April 4, 11, 18, 25, 4 p.m.

Sing along while lasers dance on the dome overhead. Songs include “Golden” by Huntrix/KPop Demon Hunters, “Dynamite” by BTS,  “Levitating” by Dua Lipa, and “Can’t Stop this Feeling” by Justin Timberlake. (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Laser Beatles, Saturdays, April 4, 11, 18, 25, 8 p.m.

Listen to hits from The Fab Four, such as “Twist and Shout,” “Revolution,” and “Get Back,” while lasers animate the songs on the dome overhead. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

Sunset Meditation, Friday, April 10, 7 p.m.

Since the Planetarium theatre 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)

For a complete schedule of Planetarium star shows and laser concerts open to the public, visit https://www.raritanval.edu/planetarium/public-shows.

Planetarium tickets cost $11 for one show, $20 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 programs 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

March 17, 2026

Media contact: Donna Stolzer, 908-526-1200, ext. 8383

PR #79