HISTORY
In 1966-1968 when plans were being formed to have St. Joseph Junior College become Missouri Western College (later to be named Missouri Western State University), college president Dr. Marvin O. Looney felt that it would be wise to have a planetarium in the soon to be built Science and Mathematics building on the new campus. In the fall of 1969, the new campus was opened and the first show in the planetarium was given by Jerry Wilkerson. Since that time thousands of people have been to the planetarium for a show. In 1997 thanks to the generosity of the Joseph R. and Bess G. Bushman family, the planetarium underwent a major renovation, updating the facility with the latest technology. The planetarium is one of only 200 similar installations nationwide. The planetarium can seat up to 40 people. Shows are presented to Astronomy classes, elementary and secondary school classes and public and private groups.

To schedule a visit to the planetarium, contact Mr. Jerry Wilkerson at (816) 271 4370 or by email at wilk@missouriwestern.edu.