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Science Museum Oklahoma Announces the Grand Opening of the World-Class Love’s Planetarium

September 3, 2024

Oklahoma City has a new claim to fame starting September 20, 2024. The city is now home to the highest caliber planetarium in the United States. The Love’s Planetarium at Science Museum Oklahoma opens its doors in a grand opening ceremony on Friday, September 20.

After years of planning and development, Science Museum Oklahoma is unveiling the state-of-the-art, hybrid planetarium featuring more 4K projectors than any other location in the United States and a GOTO Orpheus Star Ball which produces the highest quality star reproductions available. This technology allows audiences to see a night sky free of light pollution and journey through the universe.

“The experience of seeing a light pollution-free starry sky is something many in our city may never experience outside of a planetarium,” said Science Museum Oklahoma President Sherry Marshall. “Because Science Museum Oklahoma began as a planetarium, it feels like a very special gift to give future generations of astronomy enthusiasts.”

Public viewings in the Love’s Planetarium begin at 2pm on September 20, 2024. Visitors can expect to see multiple shows a day with up to eight showings on Saturdays. In addition to regular, educational interactive programming, Science Museum Oklahoma will also offer shows for younger and Spanish speaking audiences. The planetarium schedule can be found at sciencemuseumok.org/planetarium.

There is no upcharge to the base price of admission at Science Museum Oklahoma for the Love’s Planetarium

The accessible space offers wheelchair access, wide rows, and an ADA-compliant hearing assistance system. The setting creates a smaller, more intimate environment and allows for a comfortable experience and interaction with expert planetarium staff.

“This milestone is another step toward the bright future for Science Museum Oklahoma,” said Marshall. “Our planetarium is years in the making and a critical part of bringing quality educational experiences that Oklahomans deserve.”

Museum visitors can expect to see other exciting changes including the removal of the former planetarium within the museum. The outer dome, previously a large theater, now features a bold, Mars red color in addition to plans for expanded astronomy exhibits. 

For more information on the Love’s Planetarium at Science Museum Oklahoma, visit: sciencemuseumok.org/planetarium

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