(BRANCHBURG, NJ) -- The Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium in Branchburg will present in-person laser concerts, star shows and holiday shows for all ages in December, including a special sensory-friendly program designed for families with children on the Autism spectrum or those with developmental disabilities. Face masks are required in all campus buildings, including in the Planetarium.
The following shows will be offered at the Planetarium in December:
Perfect Little Planet, Saturday, December 4 at 3:00pm - A family from another star system is seeking the perfect vacation spot. Fly over the surface of Pluto, our best-known dwarf planet; sail through the rings of Saturn; feel Jupiter’s lightning storms; and walk on the surface of Mars. Which destination will the family choose? (Recommended for ages 6-12)
Laser Magic, Saturday, December 4 at 4:00pm - Lasers “dance” on the Planetarium dome, accompanied by such music as “Fireworks” by Katy Perry; “Let it Go,” sung by Idina Menzel; and “We Will Rock You” by Queen. (Recommended for ages 6-12)
The Sky Above (sensory friendly), Saturday, December 4 at 5:00pm - This sensory-friendly astronomy and music show, approximately 45 minutes in length, is specially designed for families with children on the Autism spectrum or those with developmental disabilities. Neurotypical children are welcome as well. The program, which is presented on a kindergarten level, is appropriate for audiences of all ages. During the show, the doors will remain open so children may freely leave and return if they choose. Lights will be left dim (instead of dark) and the audio will be lowered and kept at a consistent level. The show will include music, laser lights, stories, and information about the planets, the Moon and constellations.
Astronomy Tonight, Saturday, December 4 at 7:00pm - Using the Planetarium’s DigitalSky digital theater, experience a guided tour of the night sky. Learn about some of the popular constellations visible from sunset to sunrise, as well as the stories behind them. Hear about how and where in the sky to find the brightest planets. Weather permitting, the 3M Observatory will be open after the show. (Recommended for ages 8-adult)
Laser Beatles, Saturday, December 4 at 8:00pm - Listen to The Fab Four’s hits from their long career, including “Twist and Shout,” “Revolution,” and “Get Back,” while lasers animate the songs on the dome overhead. (Recommended for ages 6-adult)
The Alien Who Stole Christmas, Saturdays, December 11 & 18 at 3:00pm - Discover the stars visible in the winter sky. Then follow Santa on a trip through the solar system when a friendly alien kidnaps him. Kids on other planets also need presents! (Recommended for ages 6-10)
Winter Wonder Lights, Saturdays, December 11 & 18, 4 at 8:00pm - Listen to holiday hits such as “Wizards in Winter,” “Rockin’ around the Christmas Tree,” and “Dominic the Donkey” while lasers animate the songs on the dome overhead. (Recommended for ages 6-adult)
Mystery at the North Pole, Saturdays, December 11 & 18 at 7:00pm - Poor Santa is too ill to deliver presents this year. Who could have done this? Who would want to sabotage Christmas? Was it an elf? A reindeer? The audience will need to look at the suspects and figure out who is guilty of hurting Santa. (Recommended for ages 6-adult)
Planetarium tickets cost $10 for one show, $18 for two shows back-to-back on the same day. Reservations are recommended, but all ticket sales are done at the door on the day of the show. Late admission to Planetarium shows is not permitted. For reservations and information, call 908-231-8805. For additional information, visit www.raritanval.edu/planetarium.
Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, New Jersey.
