Two New Astronomy Shows at ASU's Planetarium Will Begin Next Thursday

The Angelo State University Planetarium will present two full-dome public astronomy shows during its late spring 2016 schedule beginning Thursday, March 24, in the Vincent Nursing-Physical Science Building, 2333 Vanderventer St, said a press release Wednesday.

Each Thursday from March 24 through May 12, “Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity” will run at 7 p.m. and “Natural Selection” will run at 8 p.m. All the shows are open to the public and there is no admission charge for “Natural Selection.” Admission prices for “Black Holes” are $3 for adults and $2 for children, active military and senior citizens. ASU students, faculty and staff are admitted free.

According to the press release, black holes are one of a few phenomenon in the cosmos where the known laws of physics and general relativity break down. “Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity” explores the power and grace of these cosmic beasts. Few mysteries in the universe have the power and awe of the black hole. Only now are we on the verge of understanding their true nature. This immersive digital theater program incorporates some of the most intense three-dimensional visual effects ever created on the subject. This show was sponsored by the Concho Educators Federal Credit Union.

“Natural Selection” was produced to help celebrate the 150^th anniversary of the publication of “On the Origin of Species” and the 200^th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth. Audiences will join Darwin on his voyage with the HMS Beagle to the Galapagos Islands, where he was inspired to develop his later theory of transmutation by natural selection. From the comfort of Down House in Kent, England, Darwin himself will explain the mechanism of natural selection to the audience and support it by showing many beautiful examples in nature.

“Natural Selection” was funded by ASU’s Hispanic Serving Institution-Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (HSI-STEM) grant, so there is no admission charge.

For more information, call the Planetarium between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at 325-942-2136 or go online to www.angelo.edu/dept/physics/planetarium.php.

A recording of the show schedule is also available by calling 325-942-2188.