Students,
instructors contribute to LodeStar solar system show
LodeStar
Astronomy Centers new feature show made its planetarium
debut in March. New Horizons is billed as an unforgettable
journey to the solar systems nine planets and more
exotic moons.
The
show gives we gravity-bound people as close to
astronaut-like experiences said David Beining, Lodestar's
acting director.
The high-resolution,
three-dimensional computer animations based on current research
are experienced through a full-dome digital video system.
The shows
introduction includes some full-dome, 3D computer-animations
produced by UNM students and instructors. LodeStar staff directed
the animations and scripted the live portion of the show.
New
Horizons coincides with an opportunity to view the five
naked eye planets, which will appear to gather in
the western sky beginning in late April. LodeStar will
host special observing events and lectures with this planet
massing of Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.
New
Horizons runs approximately 45 minutes and is shown
daily at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
The 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. show will be live star shows titled
Enchanted Skies. $6 for adults, $5 for seniors,
and $3 for children 3-12. Children under 3 are free.
The LodeStar
Astronomy Center is a UNM project in partnership with the New
Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science.