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ASU Planetarium Releases Holiday Schedule

November 21, 2012

Angelo State University’s Global Immersion Center (GIC), formerly the Planetarium, will present two public astronomy shows during its 2012 holiday schedule beginning Thursday, Nov. 29, in the Vincent Building, 2333 Vanderventer St.

“Season of Light” will run at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Thursdays through Dec. 13.  “2012: The End of the World? Not!” will run at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Dec. 13.  All the shows are open to the public with admission prices of $3 for adults and $2 for children, active military and senior citizens.  ASU students, faculty and staff are admitted free.

“Season of Light” will examine Celtic, pagan, Nordic, Roman, Egyptian and Hopi solstice rituals along with Jewish and Christian practices, including the possible astronomical explanations for the “Star of Bethlehem.”  The program will also explore some of the more light-hearted seasonal traditions, like gift giving, kissing under the mistletoe, decking the halls with greenery and candles, and songs about lords a-leaping and ladies dancing.  The legends and customs of St. Nicholas, Sinterklaas, Kris Kringle and Father Christmas will be explained while Santa Claus drops in for a visit.  The program is narrated by Noah Adams, host of National Public Radio’s afternoon news program, “All Things Considered.”

“2012: The End of the World? Not!” delves into the question of whether thousands of years ago the Mayans predicted Dec. 21, 2012, as the end of the world.  It helps audiences sort out the science from the hype as it explores some of the many internet rumors surrounding the coming of the 2012 winter solstice.

For more information, call the GIC at 325-942-2136 or go online to www.angelo.edu/dept/physics/planetarium.php.  A recording of the show schedule is also available by calling 325- 942-2188.