The Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) Planetarium in Branchburg will offer a day of programs for the entire family in celebration of Astronomy Day on Saturday, Oct. 4. Participants may attend from 2-5 or 6-9 p.m.

Visitors will be introduced to the Planetariums 3M Observatory for solar observing during the day, or will get a chance to take peeks of the Moon and other celestial objects in the evening sky. Some of the activities will include viewing a scale model of the solar system or using ones body to tell time on a sundial. A light pollution demonstration also is planned. The event is appropriate for families with children ages 6 and older. Participants are invited to see one or two of four planetarium shows scheduled:

Fall Skies, 3 p.m. Explore the night sky under the Planetarium dome with an expert guide. Learn what stars, planets and constellations are visible in tonights sky. The constellations Andromeda, Pegasus and Cassiopeia are easy to find.

Laser Pop Rock, 4 p.m. Enjoy a laser light show featuring such songs as Yellow Submarine by the Beatles, Party Rock by LMFAO, and Let It Go from Disneys Frozen.

Fall Skies, 7 p.m. Explore the night sky under the Planetarium dome with an expert guide. Learn what stars, planets and constellations are visible in tonights sky. The constellations Andromeda, Pegasus and Cassiopeia are easy to find.

Laser Grateful Dead, 8 p.m. Enjoy the Planetariums newest laser rock concert, which includes such classics as Truckin', Touch of Grey, and Sugar Magnolia.

All of the Astronomy Day activities are free of charge, but there is a cost for the star shows and laser concerts. Tickets cost $7 for one show or $13 for two shows. Reservations for the shows are strongly suggested.

For additional information about Astronomy Day or to make reservations, call 908-231-8805 or visit raritanval.edu/planetarium.

Originally posted here:

RVCC Planetarium to celebrate Astronomy Day with family activities in Branchburg