*Scroll to the bottom for show dates and times*

The U-46 Planetarium is primarily a classroom students visit throughout the school year for a standards-aligned, grade-level lesson on science and astronomy. The building is utilized full time during the school year for scheduled U-46 classes. There are no regular weekend or evening public hours. 

On occasion, the building is opened to the general public. These public sky shows last about an hour and include time observing the current night sky under the dome and a brief history of the building. A specific astronomical topic or theme is also explored through lectures, imagery and/or a full dome video presentation.  The public is welcome at all shows, but the theme for each show may dictate an age range that is the most appropriate. Discretion is advised for children under five due to length of time sitting and darkness during night sky observations.

An optional self-guided tour of the building is available for anyone interested before the start of the public shows. The observatory dome housing the transit telescope is accessed via stairs (no elevator). It is not necessary to visit the upstairs observatory to enjoy the planetarium show; the building, main planetarium chamber, and restroom are all wheelchair accessible.

Two identical shows are presented at 4:30 p.m. and the other at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted on the flyer.

• Seating for the shows is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. No reservations. Come early and walk through the building on a self-guided tour! Doors open at 4pm and 5:30pm for each show.
• Admission for the 2024-25 school year is free.  Donations are accepted, $2 per person is appreciated. These donations will be used to purchase more programs for the students.
• Visitors are welcome to park in the free public lot at the corner of National and Raymond Streets on the other side of the block from the Observatory/Planetarium. There is an accessible ramp to the building. Please call with questions about accessible parking. There is no parking on Watch Street. The Aperion Care Center is not a public lot or owned by U-46. 

Public Show Dates for the 2024-25 School Year

Saturday/Sunday September 7th/8th- Historic Elgin House Tour *Open House Only, no sky show*

Wednesday, October 16th, 2024- What's So Super about the Moon?

Friday, December 13th, 2024- The Geminids and Jupiter

Tuesday, February 25th, 2025- Preparing for the March Lunar Eclipse

Thursday, April 24th, 2025- Chasing Mercury

Wednesday, May 21st, 2025- History of the Elgin National Watch Company