Planetarium

A Planetarium provides a place where the night sky from anywhere in the world can be recreated without the issues of dust and other forms of pollution, cloud cover, or light pollution, using special equipment.

Our 360-degree, surround sound, 40-foot domed theater has controlled temperature — cool in summer and warm in winter — and very comfortable high back seats. Be careful or you may be tempted to close your eyes and relax. Surround sound helps to add to your experience. It’s conveniently located in our Visitor Center.

Most of our shows run about 40 minutes in length. Subjects relate to astronomy and use our projector to re-create celestial effects.

Some of the shows share information based upon earth science subjects including weather phenomena and other topics.

Observatory

At the Observatory you will look through our computerized, Meade 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope  to view the wonders of the universe.  We also have a special telescope made for safe viewing  of the sun.

During our summer Star Parties, we provide a host of smaller telescopes for visitors to use.  Star Parties are held Memorial through Labor Day weekends. For improved knowledge before you go out to observe, we recommend you watch the Planetarium program presented in conjunction with the Star Parties. Star Parties are free to visitors; pay our regular admission fee to view the special Planetarium Show.

Friends of Land Between The Lakes partners with the West Kentucky Amateur Astronomers to bring this robust astronomy program to our visitors and local residents. The Observatory is open selected Saturdays throughout the year. The current schedule may be viewed at www.WKAA.net.

Opening the observatory is weather dependent. Call 270-924-2237 if the weather is questionable.

Check out our schedule of events to plan your visits. The Planetarium offers a place to inspire the next generation of explorers by igniting their imagination and making them wonder why…the first step of discovery.