- "Constellations and Their Lore" – A look at constellations and the stories behind their names
- "More Than Meets the Eye" – Compares the naked-eye views with observatory astrophotos and spacecraft images
- "Season of Light" – A holiday show that explores the origin of winter traditions from different cultures
- "Larry Cat in Space" – Larry entertains younger audiences as he travels to the moon and explores the Imbrium Village.
- "Dawn of Astronomy" – Older students and adults trace the roots of modern astronomy in ancient Egypt and Britain.
Peirce Planetarium
PennWest Clarion's Peirce Planetarium offers you a glimpse of the stars and planets
of the night sky. It does so with its 40-foot dome, one of the largest in the state.
At the heart of the planetarium is a precision-engineered star ball that combines optical and electro-mechanical technology to provide an accurate view of the night sky and its apparent motion.
The planetarium is useful in providing education to faculty, students and the public as star gazers have an opportunity to see their favorite constellations at any hour of the day. The planetarium can be used to show the night sky as it would appear at any point in time, past or present, as it would appear from any point on Earth.
The planetarium is handicapped-accessible. Parking is available in Lot 12, behind Marwick-Boyd, and Lot 11, across from Tippin Gymnasium. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For information, call 814-393-2085.
In addition, we anticipate hosting regularly-scheduled laser shows starting this month.
Stay tuned here or on our Facebook page for updates at: facebook.com/PennWest-Peirce-Planetarium. You may also call our planetarium hotline at 814 393 2085 for updates.
Stars Over Clarion
Join us for our very popular monthly shows in the Peirce Planetarium! During the shows,
we will weave storytelling and science together to highlight the month’s brightest
stars and planets. Shows will take place at both 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. on the first Thursdays
of the months that we are in session. In addition, two more shows will take place
the following night (Friday) at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. The shows last roughly 50 minutes
and are free and open to the general public. All are welcome. No tickets are required.
However, since seating is limited, you may want to arrive 15 minutes early.
Laser Shows!
Experience your favorite music in a whole new light! Our planetarium laser shows star iconic soundtracks brought to life with electrifying laser visuals. Each show features a different genre: Whether you’re into pop, rock, metal, or just looking for something fun to do with your kids, we’ve got the perfect show to rock your universe! Check below for upcoming show dates, and get ready to groove! Shows are about 45 minutes long and are $12/per person. (Children ages 2 and under free; $5 with valid PennWest student ID).
Upcoming Shows
Stars Over Clarion
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Stars Over Clarion | Thursday, March 13* | 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. |
| Stars Over Clarion | Thursday, April 3 | 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. |
| Stars Over Clarion | Friday, April 4 | 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. |
| Stars Over Clarion | Thursday, May 1 | 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. |
| Stars Over Clarion | Friday, May 2 | 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. |
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. (Seating is limited)
*The March shows are not scheduled for the first Thursday due to spring break. And note there is no Friday Stars Over Clarion show. There are laser shows on that day instead.
Laser Shows
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Fun (kids' show) | Friday, February 14 | 5:00 p.m. |
| Prismatica (pop show) | Friday, February 14 | 7:00 p.m. |
| Pink Floyd (rock show) | Friday, February 14 | 9:00 p.m. |
| Laser Fun (kids' show) | Saturday, February 15 | 1:00 p.m. |
| Prismatica (pop show) | Saturday, February 15 | 5:00 p.m. |
| Pink Floyd (rock show) | Saturday, February 15 | 7:00 p.m. |
There are several shows that have become staples at the planetarium. They include:
The planetarium is named for Dr. Donald D. Peirce, teacher and chairman of the science department from 1932-68.
To schedule a show, please contact:
Angela Minich
Clerical Assistant
aminich@pennwest.edu
814-393-2288
Dr. Sharon Montgomery
Professor
smontgomery@pennwest.edu
814-393-1899
PennWest Clarion's Planetarium is handicapped-accessible and is located on Greenville Avenue in the Grunenwald Science & Technology Center. To reach the planetarium, which is located on the second floor, enter through the front doors facing Greenville Avenue and either take the stairs to the second floor or use the elevators located at the north (left) end of the building. The planetarium is at the top of the stairs to your right. Get ready to sit back and enjoy the night sky indoors!