JOURNEY INTO THE UNIVERSE, INSIDE THE UW-STEVENS POINT PLANETARIUM
UW-Stevens Point opens our shows to the public in the Allen F. Blocher Planetarium. The space consists of a 7.3m diameter dome that houses a Digistar Lite projector (installed in 2020). This immersive instructional tool is used for most astronomy courses at UWSP.
Planetarium shows provide impactful experiential learning experiences. Themes are selected to educate the public on topics ranging from cosmic cycles to planetary systems, telescopes, dark matter, the history of space exploration, and more.
Weekly public shows are presented through the academic year, typically on Sunday afternoon at 2:00pm. During the eight weeks of the summer, (end of May through the end of July), the Planetarium hosts regular public evening shows, twice per week. Check the calendar of events, which is updated regularly.
The planetarium and observatory facilities are operated and maintained by staff and student workers in the UW-Stevens Point Department of Physics and Astronomy. Our planetarium and observatory director is Dr. Sebastian Zamfir.
The Allen F. Blocher planetarium is located on the second floor of the Science Building, by the Foucault pendulum, right above the east main entrance. Direct access is obtained through the east entrance. Planetarium programs for groups (schools, scouts, organizations, etc.) can be arranged during our academic year and our summer sessions.
It was so awesome to see such a set-up. Everyone was very helpful, answered questions, and were patient with everyone who wanted to view the telescope. It is such an interesting place to visit!
There is no charge for our public programs, although donations are greatly appreciated. The planetarium is typically open from early September through mid-December, from mid-January through late July. The observatory is typically open from early September through mid-December, and from late-January through mid-May. Please check our web pages for specific details.
Parking
Parking is free on campus for our guests only on Saturdays and Sundays. From Monday-Friday, the UWSP parking lots are enforced 2 am – 7 pm. Please visit this website for more details about parking options, rules, and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don’t see an answer to your question? Call 715-346-2120 or email physastr@uwsp.edu
The Blocher Planetarium is open for scheduled shows at 2:00 pm Sundays and by group reservation. The planetarium and observatory are closed during the University interim and break periods.
Your group, of eight or more, can rent the Blocher Planetarium for special showings. Program rental charge is $35/show. The payment can be paid at the time of your visit.
We ask that you complete this request form completely, including your contact information and desired date. You may also call our office at 715-346-2120.
Planetarium seating is first come, first served for up to 55 people.
The Pejsa Observatory telescope is not available for fall 2023 semester. Instead, if there are clear skies on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 8-10 p.m., viewings will be available starting Monday, Sept. 11, through individual telescopes. Meet at the north end of Coleman Field, the track located on the north end of campus at the corner of Maria Drive and Reserve Street. Street parking is available.
Viewings will be held only if the skies are clear and the temperature is above 10 degrees Fahrenheit.