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The Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium in Branchburg will offer several programs in May that are specially designed to help younger audiences learn about astronomy, including the stars, planets, and our solar system. A variety of laser concerts geared toward younger audiences and their families also will be included on the schedule.

The following star shows and laser concerts for children and their families will be presented in May:

The Little Star that Could, Saturday, May 2, 3 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 several planets revolve around him. The show offers an introduction to the different kinds of stars in space, as well as the planets in our solar system. (Recommended for ages 6-12)

Laser Kids laser concert, Saturdays, May 2, 4 p.m.

Sing along while lasers “dance” on the dome overhead. Songs featured in this laser concert 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)

The Sky Above, sensory-friendly program, Saturday, May 2, 5  p.m.

This sensory-friendly astronomy and music show is specially designed for families with children on the Autism spectrum and other developmental disorders. Neurotypical children are welcome as well. The program is presented on a kindergarten level, but all ages are welcome. Enjoy music, laser lights, stories, and information about the planets, Moon, and constellations. During the show, the doors remain open so children may leave and return if they choose. Lights are kept dim (instead of dark) and music is at a consistent level.  

Rockin’ Rocket Ride, Saturday, May 9, 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 with selected music from "Journey Into Space" by Jane Murphy. (Recommended for ages 3-8)

Trailer: https://youtu.be/ThkByJaMh4w

Lasers for Littles, Saturday, May 9, 4 p.m.

Our youngest audience members are encouraged to sing along with tunes 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)

Other programs scheduled at the Planetarium in May include:

•    Astronomy Tonight, a guided tour of the night sky, Saturday, May 2, 7 p.m. Weather permitting, the 3M Observatory—located right outside the Planetarium—will be open after the show. (Recommended for ages 8-adult)

•    Sunset Meditation, a guided meditation experience in the Planetarium’s comfortable, reclined seats, Friday, May 8, 7 p.m. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

•    To Space and Back, a technological journey exploring how space influences our everyday life, Saturday, May 9, 7 p.m. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENyC6Hl82Uc

For a complete list and schedule of RVCC 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

April 13, 2026

PR #97