05/02/2026
May at the EKSC!
Come visit us Thursday-Saturday afternoons to experience our dual digital and optical-mechanical planetarium system, toe-tapping laser shows, and immersive exhibit hall!
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Closures: EKSC will be closed 5/29 and 5/30 for the Floyd County Homeless Shelter Gala.
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Events:
May Laser Night is Tuesday, May 26th!
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In the Varia Planetarium:
2:00 Thurs-Sat
*Astronaut: The exploration of space is the greatest endeavor that humankind has ever undertaken. What does it take to be part of this incredible journey? What does it take to become an astronaut? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of an astronaut. Explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, from floating around the International Space Station to maneuvering through microscopic regions of the human body.
*Moons: Worlds of Mystery immerses you in the amazing diversity of moons and the important roles they play in shaping our solar system. Follow in the footsteps of astronauts to our silvery Moon, then venture beyond to unfamiliar and exotic worlds. Journey to the outer planets and their moons, returning home with newfound wonder about the dynamic and intricate solar system in which we all live.
*Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity brings the current science of black holes to the dome screen. Audiences will be dazzled with striking, immersive animations of the formation of the early universe, star birth and death, the collision of giant galaxies, and a simulated flight to a super-massive black hole lurking at the center of our own Milky Way Galaxy.
3:00 Thurs-Sat
**LaseRock: If you ever find yourself in Suffragette City, Ramble On down to the station and hop onboard the Crazy Train! Space-faring guitars, distant worlds, and sneering skulls dominate this high-voltage journey through laser lights and music. From kinetic classics by Yes and Rush to ear shredders by Motörhead and Ozzy Osbourne, this show will keep your head pounding long after the music ends!
*Laser Retro: a tribute to the great anthems of the 1980s with LaseRetro. Astonishing laser art is coupled with upbeat rock and pop songs from one of the most exciting periods in mainstream music: the ‘80s! With the latest and most advanced programming techniques used to create spectacular and striking laser effects, LaseRetro will become a favorite with everyone!
*Laser Vinyl: a program that captures the pure intent of the laser show experience. Accompanying a fantastic musical concert representing the best of classic rock is some of the most beautiful and stunning laser art ever produced! Reminisce, tap your feet and enjoy a truly fantastic audio-visual event that will rock your body, mind and soul!
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General Information:
-EKSC is open to the public Thursday-Saturday afternoons.
-Thursday & Friday we are open 1-4 {planetarium show @2:00, laser show @3:00
-Saturday we are open 12-4 (live planetarium show @1:00, full dome show @2:00, laser show @3:00)
-Tuesday and Wednesdays all day, and Thurs-Fri mornings are available for private bookings and school groups. Contact us for more details!
-Birthday parties can be scheduled for Saturdays 12-4 pm upon availability. Contact us for more information!
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Sky Stuff:
-Planets: Look for brightly shining Venus low in the west after sunset, with Jupiter higher up in the west. If you observe throughout the month, you will notice these two planets will appear to get closer together! By months end, you may also spot Mercury peeking out above the western horizon. If you're an early riser, look for Saturn and Mars shining dimly in the east!
-Moon: We have two full moons this month, on the 1st and the 31st, and new moon is on the 16th.
-Cool events: The Eta Aquarids meteor shower (from Halley's Comet) peaks early on May 6th, but the bright moonlight may interfere with easy viewing!
-Sky challenge: Can you spot the Pleiades? Visit us at the Varia Planetarium to find out how!
