UWSP planetarium unveils free July shows and programming
Metro Wire Staff
STEVENS POINT — Area residents can explore everything from dark matter to cultural astronomy during a series of free planetarium shows at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Allen F. Blocher Planetarium throughout July.
Shows begin at 7 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday in July and are free and open to the public, although donations are encouraged to help support the planetarium’s public programming.
Each program lasts about an hour and includes a 25-minute presentation highlighting the current night sky over central Wisconsin, including visible stars, constellations and planets.
The July schedule includes:
• Wednesday, July 1: “Messengers of Time and Space,” exploring advances in astronomy through time-domain and multi-messenger observations.
• Monday, July 6: “Unveiling the Invisible Universe,” examining how different forms of astronomical observations have expanded scientists’ understanding of the cosmos.
• Wednesday, July 8: “Phantom of the Universe — The Search for Dark Matter,” focusing on one of astronomy’s biggest unanswered questions.
• Monday, July 13: “Big Astronomy,” highlighting the people and technology behind some of the world’s most advanced telescopes.
• Wednesday, July 15: “One Sky — Six Perspectives on Cultural and Indigenous Astronomy,” featuring short films about how cultures around the world interpret the night sky.
• Monday, July 20: “Chrononaut,” tracing the 13.8 billion-year history of the universe through key moments in science and history.
• Wednesday, July 22: “LILA — Life Cycles and Connections,” following a caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly while exploring the natural systems that sustain life.
Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis for up to 55 people.
Groups of eight or more may schedule a private showing of any planetarium program for a fee by calling 715-346-2208 or submitting an online request form.
The Allen F. Blocher Planetarium is located on the second floor of the Science Building, 2001 Fourth Ave. Parking is available in Lot D behind the building and is free in all university lots after 7 p.m. and on weekends.
Public stargazing sessions will resume in mid-September.
More information about the Allen F. Blocher Planetarium and its programs is available at https://www.uwsp.edu/smcpa/blocher-planetarium.