(BRANCHBURG, NJ) -- The sky’s the limit at the Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium in July as it gears up to celebrate a special anniversary of the Apollo Moon landing. The month of programs features “Moon Day: 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing,” Saturday, July 20 from 1:00pm-5:00pm.
Fifty years ago, Neil Armstrong uttered the famous words: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” The RVCC Planetarium’s “Moon Day” celebration will feature a variety of hands-on lunar activities; an exhibit, “Many Inspired Steps,” describing the centuries of discoveries and accomplishments that led to rockets and trips to the Moon; and star shows exploring the Moon and space travel. “Moon Day” activities are free of charge, but regular admission applies for the following Planetarium shows planned on July 20:
Earth, Moon, Sun, and Coyote, 2:00pm: Coyote has a razor-sharp wit, but he’s a little confused about what he sees in the sky. Join this amusing character (adapted from Native American oral traditions) in a fast-paced and fun show that tells Native American stories; explores lunar phases, eclipses, and other puzzles; and examine how humans learn through space exploration. (Recommended ages 8-12).
Astronaut, 3:00pm: The exploration of space is the greatest endeavor that humankind has ever undertaken. But what does it take to become an astronaut? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of “Chad,” a test astronaut. Then explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, from floating around the International Space Station to maneuvering through microscopic regions of the human body. The presentation is made possible with a grant from FirstEnergy Foundation.(Recommended for ages 10 and older)
First and Farthest, 4:00pm: From the first rockets to the first man on the moon, First and Farthest celebrates humanity's great accomplishments in the Space Race. The show will bring back memories for those who remember the Space Race and inspire new generations to keep exploring our universe. With its discussion of science, technology, engineering and mathematical concepts, First and Farthest supports a STEM-focused curriculum. The presentation is made possible with a grant from NASA’s New Jersey Space Grant Consortium. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)
A number of sky and laser shows are being shown throughout the month. Weather permitting, the 3M Observatory, located next to the Planetarium, also will be open on Friday evenings in July when the Planetarium is open, from sunset to approximately 10:00pm. Show offerings in July include:
Rockin’ Rocket Ride, Wednesdays, July 10, 17, 24, 31, 2:30pm - Put on your space suit and blast-off into outer space to visit the Moon, Sun and planets. A lively experience for young people, the show features selected music from "Journey Into Space" by Jane Murphy. (Recommended for ages 3-8)
SkyLights, Wednesdays, July 10 & 24, 3:30pm - Our youngest audience members can sing along with songs by mr. RAY (“Family Ride,” “Kalien the Alien”) and Jane Murphy (“Moon Rock Rock,” “The Planet Song”). Some songs are illustrated with lasers, while others feature video images. (Recommended for ages 3-8)
Storybooks in Space, Wednesdays, July 17 & 31, 3:30pm - Enjoy story time in the Planetarium as youngsters and their families learn about the stars and planets. There is no extra charge for stuffed animal friends. (Recommended for ages 4-8)
Astronaut, Thursdays, July 11, 18, 25, 2:30pm; Saturday, July 20, 3:00pm - The exploration of space is the greatest endeavor that humankind has ever undertaken. But what does it take to become an astronaut? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of “Chad,” a test astronaut. Then explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, from floating around the International Space Station to maneuvering through microscopic regions of the human body. The presentation is made possible with a grant from FirstEnergy Foundation. (Recommended for ages 10 and older)
Kids Jam laser concert, Thursdays, July 11, 18, 25, 3:30pm - Enjoy a new mix of music designed to entertain kids and kids at heart while lasers dance on the Planetarium dome overhead. Songs include “Bright” by Echosmith, “YMCA” by the Village People, “Mia” by Bad Bunny, and “Waka Waka” by Shakira. (Recommended for ages 6-12)
Magic Tree House: Space Mission, Fridays, July 12 & 19, 7:00pm - Join Jack and Annie as they discover the secrets of the Sun, Moon, planets, space travel, and more. Who can help them answer the questions left for them by the mysterious "M"? The show is based on the same-titled, best-selling series of novels. (Recommended for ages 5 and older)
First and Farthest, Fridays, July 12 & 19, 8:00pm; Saturday, July 20, 4:00pm - From the first rockets to the first man on the moon, First and Farthest celebrates humanity's great accomplishments in the Space Race. The show will bring back memories for those who remember the Space Race and inspire new generations to keep exploring our universe. With its discussion of science, technology, engineering and mathematical concepts, First and Farthest supports a STEM-focused curriculum. The presentation is made possible with a grant from NASA’s New Jersey Space Grant Consortium. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)
Rockin’ Cosmic Laser Concert, Fridays, July 12 & 19, 9:00pm
Join us for a space-themed laser concert as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. Songs include “ET” by Katy Perry, “Space Oddity” by David Bowie, “Drops of Jupiter” by Train, and “Rocket Man” by Elton John. (Recommended for ages 8-adult)
The Skies over Hogwarts, Friday, July 26, 7 and 8:00pm; Saturday, July 27, 2 and 3:00pm - Join our eclectic group of witches and wizards as they guide you through a "Harry Potter"-themed tour of the night sky. Learn how J.K. Rowling used astronomy as the inspiration for some of her characters' names. (Recommended for ages 8-adult)
Laser Hollywood, Friday, July 26, 9:00pm; Saturday, July 27, 4:00pm - Themes from some of everyone’s favorite movies have inspired this laser concert, including Raiders of the Lost Ark, Pink Panther, Star Wars, and Beverly Hills Cop. (Recommended for ages 6-adult)
Planetarium tickets cost $10 for one show, $16 for two shows on the same day. For reservations and information, call 908-231-8805. For additional information, visit www.raritanval.edu/planetarium.
RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ. For further information, visit www.raritanval.edu.
