STEVENS POINT – Explore the stars and planets this March at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Allen F. Blocher Planetarium and Arthur J. Pejsa Observatory.

Shows are free and open to the public, but donations are appreciated. Face coverings are required indoors at UW-Stevens Point.

The Junior Scientist monthly planetarium program (ages preschool to third grade) will be held from 3:30-4 p.m. March 13 in collaboration with the UW-Stevens Point Museum of Natural History. In “Moles – What is Out There,” youngsters will learn about astronomy with Plato, a young mole, in this animated story about discovering the world around us. Learn more at www.uwsp.edu/cols-ap/museum/Pages/Events.aspx.

March planetarium shows for all ages are offered at 2 p.m. Sundays:

  • March 6: “Phantom of the Universe-The Search for Dark Matter” – Learn about the discovery of dark matter, including a look at the Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland.
  • March 13: “Life, A Cosmic Story” – Explore living organisms on Earth and the origins of the Milky Way Galaxy.

Planetarium seating is first come, first served for up to 55 people. Groups of eight or more may schedule a special showing of any planetarium program by calling 715-346-2208 or completing an online request form. There is a cost of $35 per group for these presentations.

The Arthur J. Pejsa Observatory telescope is open for free, public viewings from 8:30-10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday evenings. Viewings will be held only if the skies are clear and the temperature is above 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

The planetarium and observatory are on the second and fourth floor of the UW-Stevens Point Science Building, 2001 Fourth Ave., Stevens Point. Parking is available in Lot D behind the building and is free in all university lots after 7 p.m. and on weekends.

Learn more at www.uwsp.edu/physastr/plan_obs/Pages/default.aspx.