(BRANCHBURG, NJ) -- From a laser concert featuring music by The Beatles, to a special, sensory-friendly program for families with children on the Autism spectrum, to a star show celebrating humanity's great accomplishments in the Space Race—and much more—the Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium in Branchburg has something for every audience in January. Here's a look at the offerings.
Earth, Moon, Sun & Coyote, Saturdays, January 7, 14, 21 at 3:00pm. Coyote thinks he knows everything about the sky, but he’s surprised by how many misconceptions he has about eclipses, moon phases, and the motion of the day and night skies. (Recommended for ages 6-12)
Laser Kids laser concert, Saturdays, January 7, 14, 21 at 4:00pm. Sing along to an updated playlist while lasers “dance” on the dome overhead. Songs include “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus, “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond, “Levitating” by Dua Lipa, and “Can’t Stop this Feeling” by Justin Timberlake. (Recommended for ages 6-12)
The Sky Above, sensory-friendly program, Saturday, January 7 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, January 7 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, Saturdays, January 7, 14, 21, 28 at 8:00pm. Listen to The Fab Four’s hits from their long careers, including “Twist and Shout,” “Revolution,” and “Get Back,” while lasers animate the songs on the dome overhead. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)
First and Farthest, Saturdays, January 14, 21, 28 at 7:00pm. 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 may bring back memories for those who experienced the Space Race and inspire new generations to continue exploring the universe. With its discussion of science, technology, engineering, and mathematical concepts, “First and Farthest” supports a STEM-focused pursuit of knowledge. The presentation is made possible with a grant from NASA’s New Jersey Space Grant Consortium. Weather permitting, the 3M Observatory, located outside the Planetarium, will be open after the show. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)
Sunset Meditation, Friday, January 20 at 7:00pm. How do STEM workers, NASA professionals, athletes, and business executives cope with stress? Mindfulness. Meditation is a powerful tool for maintaining psychological health and resilience. Since the Planetarium offers a dark and quiet space for relaxation, it is the perfect place for meditation. Enjoy a guided meditation experience in the comfortable, reclined seats in the RVCC Planetarium. View an amazing sunset as you travel virtually from the Grand Canyon to the North Pole. Then, relax under a night sky filled with stars and glimpses of the Northern Lights. (Recommended for ages 10-adult)
Rockin’ Rocket Ride, Saturday, January 28 at 3:00pm. 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, Saturday, January 28 at 4:00pm. Our youngest audience members can sing along with songs by a variety of artists. Songs include “Kalien the Alien” by mr RAY, “I Don’t Want to Live on the Moon” from Sesame Street, “Everything is Awesome” from the LEGO Movie, and more. Most songs are illustrated with lasers, while and other songs feature video images. (Recommended for ages 3-8)
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 or email [email protected]. For additional information, visit www.raritanval.edu/planetarium.
Raritan Valley Community College is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, New Jersey.
