UWSP planetarium to offer December shows, stargazing sessions

By Patrick Lynn

STEVENS POINT — The Allen F. Blocher Planetarium at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is offering a series of free public programs in December, exploring everything from black holes to holiday traditions tied to the winter solstice.

Public planetarium shows will be held at 2 p.m. each Sunday. Each program lasts about an hour and includes a 25-minute look at Central Wisconsin’s current night sky, including visible stars, constellations and planets. Admission is free, though donations are accepted to support the programming.

On Dec. 7, the planetarium will present “Supermassive Black Holes: Uncovering the Invisible,” a program examining the physics behind black hole formation and their role in galaxy evolution. On Dec. 14, “Season of Light” will highlight global holiday customs and their connections to astronomical events.

A Junior Scientist program, “Larry, Cat in Space,” will be offered from 3:30 to 4:10 p.m. on Dec. 14, with a book reading beginning at 3 p.m. The event is held in partnership with the UW-Stevens Point Museum of Natural History.

Planetarium seating is first come, first served, with capacity limited to 55 people. Groups of eight or more can request a special showing by calling 715-346-2208 or filling out an online request form. Fees apply for group bookings.

The planetarium is located on the second floor of the UW-Stevens Point Science Building at 2001 Fourth Ave. Parking is available in Lot D and is free in all university lots after 7 p.m. and on weekends.

Weather-dependent stargazing sessions will also be offered from 8:30 to 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday on Colman Field, at Maria and Reserve streets. Sessions will be held only when skies are clear and temperatures are above 15 degrees.

More information and stargazing updates can be found at uwsp.edu/smcpa/blocher-planetarium.