The Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) is excited to unveil a new immersive projector system and a slate of exciting, new shows on Saturday, April 12, during their free Astronomy Day event.

The family-friendly event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and will feature hands-on activities indoors, free shows in the Planetarium, and telescopes outside (weather permitting) for some guided stargazing. The event is being organized by the Planetarium and UMD students, faculty and staff.

“We’re so excited to have a new projector and new shows to share with visitors,” said Planetarium Director Jessica Rogers. “This event grows every year and is a highlight for us. It’s always fun to share the night sky and get people excited about the cosmos.”

The new projector is an upgrade from the current system. Not only will it provide higher resolution, the projector will also be a true fulldome experience (the current projector does not project to the very back of the room). Guests will be able to experience truly immersive programming as they fly through the cosmos. Coming with the new projector is a slate of new shows that will premiere all summer long. This was made possible thanks to donations to the Planetarium and from the Swenson College of Science and Engineering.

Upon arrival at the Astronomy Day event, attendees should pick up tickets for the free Planetarium shows in order to reserve their spot, as seating in the theater is limited.

For a detailed schedule of the evening, visit the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium website.