Jewels of the Shortest Nights begins this Friday, August 5, at the Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium at Buffalo State. The show will feature a discussion of celestial objects and events that you can see from your backyard in the August sky—planets, constellations, meteor showers, and more.

“Audiences will be able to see what ancient civilizations saw on a warm summer evening before there was any light pollution,” said Kevin Williams, assistant professor of earth sciences and science education and director of the planetarium. “If you want to know the best time to see the moon, planets, and a meteor shower, reserve your seats soon!”

Jewels of the Shortest Nights runs until September 3, and features a Friday show at 8:00 p.m. and a Saturday afternoon show at 2:00 p.m. Weather permitting, the planetarium staff will roll out Buffalo State’s telescopes so that visitors can explore the night sky live after the Friday night planetarium show. There is no charge for the telescope viewing.

“With a little lucky timing,” said Williams, “you might also see a satellite or the international space station.”

To reserve your tickets, please call (716) 878-4911, send an e-mail, or complete this online form.