Starry Eyed for the Sky: The MoSH Planetarium

Ever gazed up at a glittering night sky and wished you could identify the constellations, locate the Milky Way, or guide yourself North? It’s never too late (or early) to learn the science of astronomy – and what you may not know is that there are experts in your very own backyard.

The Museum of Science and History (or the “Pink Palace” as life-long Memphians will probably always call it) houses the state-of-the-art Sharpe Planetarium, which features a 50’ domed screen and the technology that can visually send viewers into the far corners of the galaxy with each presentation. From the movie theater seats that dip slightly back, you can explore the skies during different seasons of the year, learn about light pollution, discover black holes, and more. The planetarium has been around for ages, but it’s one of the best kept secret sources for education and fun in the city.

Sky Surfing

Because the sky changes with each passing month, there are new things to learn and observe over the course of the year and the Sharpe Planetarium changes its presentations seasonally. From Wednesday thru Sunday of each week, you can see four different shows each day that highlight a fascinating feature of the sky, constellations, and the solar system. The shows themselves are excellent, informative, and diverse. The planetarium screen spreads across 3,900 square feet, making it the largest screen in the city! As you gaze upwards you’ll feel the wonder of the night time heavens while relaxing in your seat. At times, the screen even turns above you, making you feel as though the room is being slowly spun. Kids and adults alike love the immersive experience you get few other places.

Perhaps the best part of the presentation, though, is after the show has ended. At this time, a local astronomer takes the mic at the back sound board, turns the above-head screen to a static nighttime sky, and begins to point out constellations that can be found in Memphis at that specific time of year. You can ask questions, retrieve your own map of the Memphis nighttime sky, and begin your own journey to “astronomy awareness”. You’ll feel even more inspired to find your own way around the stars and lean in to the mysteries of the universe after a show at Sharpe.

Not Just for Kids

Of course you think of education when you think of a planetarium. But MoSH doesn’t use it’s massive screen just for school groups and family outings! From June to September on select weekend evenings, you can drop in to the planetarium for its Laser Live series which hosts local bands onstage with a full laser light show on the dome screen. Their Guitar Heroes Summer Laser series presents classic rock bands like Jimmy Hendrix and The Beatles, interactive instruments you can try for yourself, and the dazzling laser light show overhead. For a full sensory experience, make plans to visit the Sharpe Planetarium at MoSH before the end of the season! Purchase tickets online in advance.