RU Planetarium to investigate mysteries of science

Life in the Universe

Two scientific mysteries will be featured as the Radford University Planetarium reopens.

Beginning March 17, the RU Planetarium will feature "Search for Life in the Universe" on Tuesday and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., and "Dinosaur Prophecy" on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. The two shows will run through April 24.

"Search for Life" takes a fresh look at the question of "are we alone,"  a search that began in 1960 when astronomer Frank Drake first used a radio telescope in Green Bank, West Virginia, to listen to nearby stars. The show looks forward from the big bang in search of places that might harbor life, including our solar system’s planets. A scenic tour of the universe through the eyes of astronomers as they seek clues about the origin of life and the development of intelligence, "Search for Life" is produced by Discovery Dome and is directed by George Fox, professor of biology and biochemistry at the University of Houston.

Dinosaur Prophecies poster

"Dinosaur Prophecy" recreates the story of life prior to the dinosaurs' massive extinction 65 million years ago. To solve this famous scientific cold case, the show will visit dinosaur graveyards, study their bones and reconstruct how these creatures lived and died. "Dinosaur Prophecy" is a co-production of the Rice Space Institute and the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

The RU Planetarium offers 32 reclined planetarium seats within its 24-foot diameter dome and can accommodate up to 45 people. To visit the planetarium at times other than its regularly scheduled showtimes or with a group, contact Rhett Herman.

All shows are free and open to the public. The planetarium is located in Curie Hall room 43. Enter through Reed Hall from the main campus and follow the signs in the building. A complete RU Planetarium schedule can be found online.

Mar 17, 2015