Feb. 7, 2025–The Bushman Planetarium at Missouri Western State University will present public showings at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 14 and Friday, Feb. 21. The planetarium is located inside Agenstein Hall, room 147.
Friday, Feb. 14 “Sea Monsters”
Journey 80 million years back in time to an age when mighty dinosaurs dominated the land – and an equally astonishing assortment of ferocious creatures swam, hunted, and fought for survival beneath the vast, mysterious prehistoric seas. Stunning, photo-realistic imagery re-creates the perilous underwater realm of two young, dolphin-sized marine reptiles called Dolichorhynchops, or Dollies, and follows their incredible journey through waters ruled by some of the most awesome predators ever to prowl the Earth’s oceans.
Friday, Feb. 21 “Black Holes”
They lurk in the universe like cosmic dragons, unseen voids with the energy of a million suns. They can devour entire stars, and once in their grasp, nothing, not even light, can escape. Few mysteries in the universe have the power and awe of the black hole. Designed for all audiences, this full-length production features 3-D simulations of black holes and the strange physical and visual effects they can create. With the help of science advisors from around the country, audiences will be able to see and feel what it might be like to approach the supermassive black hole at the center of our own Milky Way galaxy, or speculate on the existence of “wormholes,” theoretical portholes in space and time.
The Bushman Planetarium features a Digistar 4 projection system and a dome that is tilted slightly, rather than directly overhead, making viewing easier. The Dolby 5.1 surround sound system enhances the viewing experience.
The planetarium is open to the public. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children age 13 and under, students, military, and senior citizens age 60 and up. Planetarium tickets must be purchased in advance, either online at missouriwestern.edu/planetarium or in person at Agenstein Hall room 140 during regular business hours Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4:30 p.m.
Missouri Western State University is a student-centered learning community preparing individuals for lives of excellence through applied learning. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit missouriwestern.edu.