New planetarium programs

The Downing Planetarium is offering two new programs, “Midnight Canvas” and “Ring World” for the spring season.

“Midnight’s Canvas” is shown Friday nights at 6 p.m. during the month of February and is meant for an audience of ages sixth grade to adults.

“ Midnight's Canvas” takes viewers on a whirlwind tour through the history of astronomical observations, from the first wonderings by prehistoric peoples, to the explosion of information available with the introduction of the telescope, to more modern developments such as multi-wavelength observations and manned space missions.  Along the way, historical and social events that influenced the advancement of technology and scientific discovery are explained.

“Ring World” is shown Friday nights at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 3 p.m. in February and is meant for an audience of ages fifth grade to adults.

Through breathtaking images and computer simulations, “ Ring World” tells the history of observation and exploration of Saturn, and gives a detailed account of the Cassini mission, and what astronomers and engineers hope it will accomplish. Take a trip with the Cassini spacecraft to study the planet Saturn, its beautiful rings and its many fascinating moons. Learn how Cassini will communicate with Earth and send images and data back home. Study the surface of Titan with Cassini's Huygens probe to discover if it resembles an ancient Earth.

“Larry the Cat in Space” is an ongoing children’s program that is shown on Saturdays at 2 p.m. and is meant for a pre-K to second grade audience.

“Larry the Cat in Space” is about Larry, an inquisitive cat who likes to watch the sky.  When he finds out that one of his human family members, Diana, is moving to the Moon to work as a lunar geologist, he doesn't want to be left behind. Throughout the show, Larry shares his "cat's-eye-view" of the Moon, backyard astronomy, space travel and what it would be like to live on another world.

Telescope viewing will be available, starting at dusk after all Friday evening public shows, as weather permits.

Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 seniors, and $2.50 children and students.

Parking is free for weekend shows in lots O and P in front of the planetarium. To find out more about public show times call 8-4121 or visit www.downing-planetarium.org.