Planetarium

The Planetarium is Towson University’s premier facility for simulating the Universe.  Public shows are offered every month during the academic year.  Private showings for school field trips, private groups, and other events are offered. See below for details.

Our Planetarium is an all-digital system built by Spitz, Inc. in 2021. It can accommodate up to 50 people underneath its 24-foot (7.3 meter) diameter dome.  Its 4K-by-4K ultra-high-definition image and quadrophonic sound system immerses you as you explore the cosmos.

Public Shows

During the academic year, public shows are held the evening of the third Friday of every month at 7:00 PM and are provided free of charge.  Shows last approximately 30 to 45 minutes in length.  Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis except for designated ADA/wheelchair seating.  Extra shows are added to accommodate overflow audiences.

When weather permits, planetarium shows are followed by telescope observing using our 16-inch (0.4 meter) diameter Ritchey-Chrétien telescope as well as with some of our portable telescopes.

To receive updates about the monthly planetarium shows please contact the Department of Physics, Astronomy & Geosciences at

Private Shows

We welcome schools, community/campus organizations, and private groups to experience our planetarium!  We offer live shows presented by a trained presenter as well as full dome films that will entertain and educate your audience. Presentations range from 30-60 minutes, allowing time for seating, presentation, and questions and answers following the program.

We ask that groups range in number from 15 to 50 persons (larger groups may require multiple shows).  We regret that we cannot accommodate groups smaller than 15 people on demand.

Fees for private planetarium use are:

  • Public schools: $2 per person (this fee is waived for Title I schools).
  • Other groups: $4 per person.

Location and Parking

science complex second floor plan

The planetarium is located in the Science Complex on 2nd Floor, Room 2206 (SC 2206).  Parking is available — free from 6 p.m on Friday through Sunday — in the Glen Parking Garage which is directly across from the Science Complex.  Entrance is from Cross Campus Drive.

Contact Information

Planetarium Director

christian ready
 
Christian Ready
Location
Science Complex
Room 4150M
Hours
By Appointment