52 years ago, humanity took its first complete step away from the confines of the planet Earth when two astronauts stepped on the surface of the Moon. Now, the Harry C. Vaughn planetarium hopes to celebrate those first strides on our closest extraterrestrial neighbor with a variety of shows including an Apollo-themed week slated for July.
“We’ll be taking a break from our scheduled Independence Day weekend, but resume with programs in July,” said planetarium coordinator, Max Gilbraith.
The release of the planetarium’s July schedule sees a variety of live shows and films slated for audiences that journey through humanity’s astronomical journey.
“I’m looking forward to our week of Apollo-themed programs that detail the original missions, past efforts and the upcoming Orion program to return humans to the Moon,” Gilbraith said.
The first of those shows is scheduled for Friday, July 16 at 7 p.m. “Apollo to Orion: Past and Future Moon Exploration” will see a live talk directed by planetarium presenter and UW student Connor Hamp.
Visitors can expect a guided visual tour of what has been done and what still waits for humans on our Moon.
The second program is one of the planetarium’s Full-Dome movies.
“I like attending the Full-Dome movies because they’re more engaging and visually stunning than just your average flat screen cinema,” said Laramie resident and planetarium regular, Sarah Windell.
This particular Full-Dome will be presented on Saturday July 17 at 2 p.m. “Back to the Moon for Good” will give viewers an updated look on Moon exploration programs and give a comprehensive account of what the era of space exploration meant in the 60’s and 70’s.
“In the past, I’ve always enjoyed the programs they try to set up for the Moon landing. I’m excited to see what they have this year,” Windell said.
“Despite the fact it’s not a major anniversary like a centennial, it’s still worth celebrating,” said planetarium fan and astronomy student Cullen McGee. “Especially because celebrating these things is what gets people invested and looking to the future or what we can do now.”
Alongside the slating of Moon landing shows, the Harry C. Vaugh staff are hosting a variety of astronomy shows throughout the month.
Live talk shows such as “Wyoming Skies” and “Black Holes” will be presented alongside other Full-Dome flicks like “Max Goes to the Moon” and “Two Small Pieces of Glass”.
“My favorite shows always have been the presenter led live talks. I like the personal feel of a guided tour through the wide variety of topics they cover,” McGee said.
A full list of shows, showtimes, and descriptions can be accessed at Public Show Schedule | Physics & Astronomy Department | University of Wyoming (uwyo.edu).
“Those who like to get lost in deep space will enjoy observing the universe in invisible wavelengths, hunting for life on Mars or diving into black holes,” said Gilbraith.
Tickets are $5 for the public and $3 for students, senior citizens, veterans, first responders and those under 18. Seating is free for children under 5. Tickets can be purchased in advance online with credit card at https://www.uwyo.edu/uwplanetarium/ticket.aspx or can be purchased at the start of the show with cash.
For any more information, email planetarium@uwyo.edu.
