Explore the Universe—No Spacesuit Required
As the second largest city in the state, there is never a shortage of things to do in Buffalo—unless you want to look at the stars.
Because of the light pollution in the city, we can only see a small percent of the stars we’d be able to see in a more rural area.
Before you pack up your car and head to a desolate cornfield to enjoy the celestial wonders, consider a much shorter drive (or walk) to the Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium. “The planetarium is fun, educational, and unique,” said Kevin Williams, director of the planetarium and assistant professor of Earth Sciences and Science Education. “It allows you to experience the night sky in a way that you can’t in Buffalo.”
This year, the planetarium’s schedule of programs offers much more than just stargazing. Audiences will have the opportunity to learn about constellations, planets, black holes, and other astral wonders. The 2012 schedule includes several original shows as well as seasonal favorites and popular laser music shows.
In February, “The Stellar Road to Freedom” looks at how the stars of the northern sky played an important role in the Underground Railroad as African Americans sought freedom in the north. Later this month, “Shorter Nights: Passage into Spring” explores the changing night sky in tandem with the changing seasons. Jumping ahead to September, “2012: Prophesy of Doom?” will separate fact from fiction as December 21, 2012 (the day ancient Mayans predicted the world will end) approaches.
Other shows throughout the year include “Pluto and the Other Dwarfs: Smaller Objects of the Solar System;” “Wonders of the Springtime Sky;” “The Sun and Extrasolar Planets;” “The Lives and Deaths of Giant Stars;” “Ancient Astronomical Sites;” “Legends of Autumn;” and “Star of Wonder.”
Most of the shows are geared towards adults, but are appropriate for children six and older. “We’ve had people from all over Western New York and Pennsylvania visit—families, students, Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops, retirement communities, special needs groups, business groups…we even have birthday parties here,” Williams said. “You don’t have to be an astronomer or physicist to appreciate the sky. Just come with an interest in the world around you.”
The shows are not scripted, so audiences will be sure to enjoy a completely unique experience with each visit. The planetarium will close in December 2012 while construction of the new science and mathematics complex is completed, so be sure to take advantage of the 2012 schedule.
General admission is $6 for the public; $4 for college students, children 18 and younger, and seniors over the age of 65; and free for Buffalo State students and active or retired military. Seats usually fill fast, so reservations are strongly encouraged. Call (716) 878-4911 or reserve them online.