Grand Rapids Public Museum

Sky Shows

Cowboy Astronomer*

• In this cowboy's take on stargazing we blend modern science with tales of the west, illustrating how we can all make a personal connection to the sky.
  Grades 5 - 7, 45 minutes

Crickets and Constellations

• Be part of the supporting case in this camping-themed, interactive quest to learn more about the wonders of nature and the universe.  Includes a simulated thunderstorm!
  Grades 1 - 3, 40 minutes

• Glimpse the future in a show that honors the contributions of astronomers past and present.
  Grades 6 - 12, 45 minutes

• This enlightening presentation looks at "sky stories" from a cultural perspective.
  Grades 5 - 9, 45 minutes

• Garfield and his owner Jon take us into space, where we learn the reasons for the seasons.  The show includes a live tour of the night sky.
  Grades 2 - 5, 35 minutes

• In this live presentation, the planetarium wizard takes the kids on an exciting imagination-driven tour of the magical sky inside the planetarium to explain the motion of the sun and moon, the solar system and the basic constellations.
  Grades PK - 1, 30 minutes

• Learn how the extreme heat, cold, vacuum and radiation of space affect the human body during long-term space travel.
  Grades 6-12, 30 minutes

• Native American stories of the sky, moon and constellations are shared along with modern scientific discoveries, as both help us understand the world around us.
  Grades 4 - 7, 40 minutes

• Go on safari to the major features of the Solar System including the Sun, the Moon, the eight planets and Pluto in this jungle-themed space adventure.
  Grades 2 - 5, 45 minutes

• Follow a police detective to investigate a heist and enjoy an array of stunning visual effects!  Music from U2, Madonna and Monty Python set the stage for this criminal investigation across the galaxy.
  Grades 3 - 6, 40 minutes

To Boldly Go

• Exploration throughout the ages is the topic of this show.  Travel with an early Chinese explorer, sail with Columbus and Magellan, and trek into the center of frozen Antarctica.  Take a look at future exploration with a journey to Mars.
  Grades 5 - 12, 45 minutes

• Tour the night sky and learn stargazing tips that will help you make sense of the sky from your own backyard.
  Grades 6 - 12, 45 minutes

Seasonal Sky and Laser Light Shows

• Don't miss this "spooky" collection of your favorite Halloween songs set to dazzling visual effects!
  All ages, 35 minutes

• Dazzling laser light and special effects accompany your favorite Christmas songs.  Sing along if you like, and make this a part of your family's holiday tradition.
  All ages, 35 minutes