Six Massachusetts Planetariums Where You Can go Stargazing for National Woman Astronomer Day

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

Photo credit: Maria Mitchell Association

Here’s where you can see some stars – and beyond – around Massachusetts in honor of National Woman Astronomer Day. Did you know that Massachusetts was home to the first woman who was a professional astronomer?

Its true! Maria Mitchell was born on Nantucket in 1818. In 1847, she discovered a comet that was later named after her. Despite not having a college degree, she became the first female professor of Astronomy and she was the first woman elected Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Today, Nantucket’s Maria Mitchell Association preserves her legacy and provides people of all ages opportunities to learn more about science.

To celebrate Maria Mitchell this August, check out one of these unique high tech dome theaters. They’re more than just a great way to learn about our planet, outer space, and more – they’re a fun time for the whole family.

Charles Hayden Planetarium, Boston

Located within the Museum of Science, the Charles Hayden Planetarium offers much more than just a look at the stars. Shows can also give guests the experience of exploring other planets in our solar system and the expanded universe, as well as visualizations set to the music of some classic rock music. Tickets start at $6 and must be purchased in addition to museum admission.

Brockton Planetarium, Brockton

This immersive experience within the Brockton Public Library is fun for the whole family. See their event calendar for event dates and times, or book their mobile planetarium at your local school or library. Preregistration is required.

FSU Planetarium, Framingham

Travel to the far-reaches of the galaxy or into the inner-workings of our cellular structure, all at the Framingham State University Planetarium. Programming is geared towards students, teachers, and the local Framingham community. Check out their site for upcoming special events.

Russell Blake Planetarium, Plymouth

The only 4K Planetarium south of Boston, the W. Russell Blake Planetarium has many special events open to the public, with tickets starting at $7. The planetarium is also available for schools to book. Films and other experiences hosted by the planetarium are regularly posted to their Eventbrite page.

Seymour Planetarium, Springfield

Head on over to the Springfield Museum of Science to experience the oldest operating American-made projector in the world. Don’t let the tech’s age fool you, though – the Seymour Planetarium is capable of beaming stunning imagery onto the Planetarium’s unique pure black background. Tickets start at $5, but admission is free for museum members!

Alden Digital Planetarium, Worcester

The only public planetarium in central Massachusetts, this planetarium within the Ecotarium can display 4K images and video of our solar system and beyond. Tickets must be purchased in addition to museum admission. Tickets are $7, or $6 for museum members.

TOPICS: Boston, Brockton, Framingham, Plymouth, springfield, Worcester