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ASU Planetarium Offers Multiple Spring Star Shows

January 12, 2011

Angelo State University’s newly updated Global Immersion Center (GIC), formerly the Planetarium, will feature three full-dome public astronomy shows during its spring schedule that begins on Thursday, Jan. 20.

“Stars of the Pharaohs” will run at 7 p.m. Thursdays and 8 p.m. Fridays, Jan. 20-March 11, and at 3 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 22-March 5. “Black Holes: Point of No Return” will run at 8 p.m. Thursdays and 7 p.m. Fridays, Jan. 20-March 11. “Astro Otters: Destination Moon” will run at 2 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 22-March 5.

“Stars of the Pharaohs” is being offered for the first time at ASU. Viewers will travel to ancient Egypt to see how science was used to tell time, make a workable calendar and align huge buildings. They will also learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena, and experience some of the most spectacular temples and tombs of the ancient world recreated in their entire original splendor. “Stars of the Pharaohs” is a Telly Award-winning production and is narrated by actor John Rhys-Davies.

“Black Holes: Point of No Return” brings the current science of black holes to the dome screen. This cutting-edge production features high-resolution visualizations of cosmic phenomena, working with data generated by computer simulations. Audiences will be dazzled by striking and immersive animations of the formation of the early universe, star birth and death, and the collision of giant galaxies, plus a simulated flight to a super-massive black hole located at the center of our own Milky Way galaxy. It is one of the most successful full-dome shows ever produced and is narrated by actor Liam Neeson.

“Astro Otters: Destination Moon” is a fun-filled planetarium program designed for young audiences. It captures the attention of young viewers for an introductory look at the Moon, including its many phases and properties. Concepts and words are kept simple so younger students will easily understand them.

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. The GIC is located in the ASU Vincent Nursing-Physical Science Building, 2333 Vanderventer St.

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