Downing Planetarium

Activity Overview

Downing Planetarium is located on the campus of California State University, Fresno. The planetarium features shows that are related to different aspects of Astronomy. Public shows are held on the weekends, it includes theater shows and free star gazing through one of the telescopes in the planetarium. The planetarium is a 74-seat star theater with a dome that is 30 feet high, it features a museum and a gift shop. The planetarium has been featuring public shows since May, 2000.

Things to Do

• Visit the planetarium on the weekends when the public shows are scheduled. See educational and interesting shows including Cosmic Colors and Black Holes.
• The cosmic colors show features journey across the electromagnetic spectrum, and inside a plant leaf and the human eye.
• Black holes show will take you on a mystical journey featuring black holes in the space, their origin and if we could find one on Earth's horizon.
• On Friday night, enjoy free star gazing through a telescope outside the planetarium, explore planets, star systems, and other celestial objects.
• Explore the spacious lobby that displays photograph of a comet, solar system, gravity well, a sundial, science toys and meteorites.
• Visit the little dipper gift shop and buy posters, t-shirts and science toys for the kids.

Downing Planetarium Insider Tips

• Free parking is available for weekends shows.
• Tickets for the weekend shows should be reserved in advance.