VSU Planetarium Discusses Solar System Feb. 13

VALDOSTA — The Valdosta State University Planetarium presents “The Sun and Its Family” at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m., and 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13.

Seating for each presentation is limited to 46 guests. Free admission ticket distribution begins as early as 5:30 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis at the VSU Planetarium.

“We are beginning our Spring Planetarium season with a look at our star — the Sun,” shared Dr. Martha Leake, professor of astronomy and physics at VSU. “And we will be looking at its host of planets, moons, and other bodies. This 5-billion-year-old solar system, orbiting our Sun, is most likely unique, yet is just one version of countless systems throughout our galaxy. Our Sun is our solar system’s most massive single body, a heat engine converting hydrogen into helium in its core — by nuclear fusion — holding itself up against the inward forces of gravity. Its activity — 11-year or 22-year cycle — its energy headed our way, and its stability are very important to us.” 

If weather conditions permit, guests will have an opportunity to visit the VSU Observatory between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. and view the night sky through telescopes.

“Our interests include understanding recent events like aurora, coronal mass ejections, and comets; preparing for future events like the total lunar eclipse March 2-3; and continuing our efforts to study the objects in the skies overhead,” Leake added.

Located on the third floor of Nevins Hall, the VSU Planetarium features a Digitarium Kappa digital projector, which can reproduce the night sky as seen from anywhere on Earth or from the surface of any object in the solar system, at any time in history, past or future.

Limited parking is available in front of Nevins Hall and across Patterson Street.

Planetarium public outreach shows are appropriate for children and adults ages 5 and up. The next shows are scheduled for March 6 and April 10.

Contact VSU’s Department of Data Science at (229) 333-5778 for more information.