STEVENS POINT — The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has a host of events coming up during the next several weeks.
NEW! Learn more about the stars and planets that fill the clear summer night skies through programs at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Allen F. Blocher Planetarium.
Hour-long programs will be offered at 7:30 p.m. on select Mondays and Wednesdays in the Science Building, 2001 Fourth Ave., Stevens Point. The public may attend free of charge.
Shows include:
- Mars Quest – May 29
Patrick Stewart of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” presents how the view and perception of Mars changed over the history of humankind and gives us hints on how future colonization of the red plant may happen. - Sky Quest – June 3 and June 5
Narrated by Roxann Dawson from “Star Trek: Voyager,” the show explores the night sky and how to find constellations. - Chasing the Ghost Particle – June 10 and June 12
Learn how tiny and elusive particles called neutrinos hold secrets about exploding stars and black holes. - Journey to the Stars – June 17
Discover how astronomers use telescopes, the many objects in the solar system, what stars look like and the locations of other galaxies. - Bad Astronomy – June 24 and June 26
“Bad Astronomer” Phil Plait looks at the myths and realities of astronomy. - Endless Horizon – July 1 and July 3
Patrick Stewart of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” narrates the history of the exploration of planets and space, featuring early explorers, astronomers and inventors. - Dawn of Astronomy – July 8 and July 10
See how prehistoric stones, the pyramids and early shrines helped early people link themselves to celestial events, measure time and determine directions. - The Stargazer – July 15 and July 17
Narrated by Nichelle Nichols from “Star Trek” and noted astronomer James Kaler, the show looks at the nature of stars and stellar life cycles. - Galaxies – July 22
This show takes audiences on a journey through the Milky Way and the galaxies beyond.
The planetarium is on the second floor of the Science Building. Doors open 30 minutes before the scheduled program. Designed for a general audience, planetarium programs appeal to all age groups. Seating is first come, first served for up to 55 people.
Parking is available in Lot D behind the Science Building and is free in all university lots after 7 p.m.
Groups of 10 or more may schedule a special showing of any planetarium program until July 24 by calling 715-346-2139 between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. There is a cost of $25 per group for these special presentations.
NEW! Learn about bird banding and orioles at a Junior Audubon Bird Program offered for all ages at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Schmeeckle Reserve.
“Discover Orioles” will be offered from 9-11 a.m. June 1, featuring bird bander Bob Welch of the Waupaca Biological Research Station and birding experts from the Aldo Leopold Audubon Society. Held at the reserve’s Visitor Center, 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, the program is free and open to the public.
Participants will enjoy activities and crafts, with information on basic birding, identification techniques, feeders and birdhouses. Binoculars and identification books will be available to borrow during a guided family friendly birding hike on the reserve’s trails. Free coffee, cocoa, juice and snacks will be provided. Registration is not required. Young children must attend with a parent or guardian. Dress for the weather.
For more information, call 715-346-4992 or go to www.uwsp.edu/cnr/schmeeckle or Facebook @schmeecklereserve.
Photos courtesy UWSP.
