Educational

Since the 1950's, the planetarium at Cranbrook Institute of Science has helped over 1 million visitors discover and enjoy the marvels of the universe.

In fall 2011, the planetarium took the next evolutionary step in its ability to explore the wonders of the night sky by installing a Digistar4 immersive, full-color video system.  This new system can show every star in the night sky, even ones that are not visible to the unaided eye, can visit all of the planets and smaller bodies of our solars system and so much more! Combining the latest 3D rendering techniques with groundbreaking projection technology, audiences of all ages did and will experience a feast for the senses.

Tickets are required for all programs, either entertainment shows or educational programs, in the planetarium in addition to museum admission. They can be purchased at the museum entrance desk. There is no late seating.

Planetarium Schedule & Shows!

Planetarium programs are offered every Friday/Saturday night, and Saturday/Sunday during the day.

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These shows are for general admission visitors. School groups and other groups may attend regularly scheduled public astronomy or entertainment shows, but are limited to 35 people per program. Private astronomy or entertainment shows for up to 75 people can be scheduled weekday mornings and afternoons throughout the school year. Further information is available on our For Teachers Web page.

• Programs begin promptly. We suggest you arrive an hour before showtime. Always leave yourself enough time to park the car, purchase tickets, check your coats and strollers, visit the restrooms, etc.
• Planetariums are not like movie theaters. Planetariums are too dark to allow audience members to come and go as they please (it is dangerous and disruptive). Latecomers will not be admitted.
• Visit the restrooms before the program begins. Once the lights go down, visitors can leave, but are not permitted to reenter (see above).
• Planetariums are great places for kids, but to recreate a nighttime environment the planetarium theater has to be dark. Note that strollers are not permitted.
• Please turn off cell phones, beepers and other noisy electronic or light emitting devices while inside the theater.
• No children under the age of 12 are permitted in the planetarium unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Note: food and drink are not permitted in the planetarium.