PLANETARIUM CLOSED FOR THE SUMMER
Due to extensive roof repairs to the science building, the SPC planetarium will not be hosting live presentations this summer. Instead, we plan to do virtual shows, or webinars, using Zoom. Please check back for updates, including a summer webinar schedule and Zoom registration links.
If the roofing work goes as planned, the planetarium will reopen when fall classes begin in August.
FREE PLANETARIUM SHOWS
Explore the stars without trekking far from home - for a price that's out of this world: Free! The planetarium offers free public shows on Wednesday and Friday evenings when the college is in session. Shows are hosted by resident astronomer Dr. Craig Joseph and feature live narration with images displayed by computer-controlled projectors.
The planetarium comfortably seats 46, and admission is on a walk-in basis (first-come, first-served). No reservations are required. Planetarium shows last approximately 45 minutes, and no one can be admitted after the show begins. Children are welcome as long as they are 5 or older. Following the Wednesday evening planetarium shows, visitors are invited to the observation deck for telescope viewing (weather permitting).
ROOFTOP OBSERVATORY
The St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus is also home to a rooftop observatory, featuring a 20-inch reflecting telescope that is open to students and the public after Wednesday evening planetarium shows. Additional portable telescopes are available on our spacious third floor observation deck. Special telescopes equipped with solar filters allow daytime visitors to safely view sunspots, prominences and other solar activity.
PLANETARIUM LOCATION
The Planetarium is located on the second floor of the Natural Science Building (SC 205) on the St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus located on 69th Street North at 5th Avenue. Free parking is available for the celestial shows.
SCHEDULE YOUR GROUP EVENT
Clubs, school groups, and other community organizations can reserve the planetarium for free special programs – morning, afternoon or evening (for evening shows, only Mondays and Tuesdays are available). For group reservations:
Planetarium Gallery
