Frequently Asked Questions
How much time should we plan for a planetarium program?
Each presentation in the planetarium is 30-45 minutes in length, so we plan for 45-60 minutes per group to include transition times. We can offer up to 6 planetarium programs during one day’s site visit.
Can we customize our planetarium program?
Yes! Stars Above offers specific program topics for our planetarium events, but we’re happy to cater to your interests. We offer flexible communication before our planetarium programs to make the most of this inspiring experience for you, and we love to extend our connection to schools and groups outside of our scheduled programs.
How much space do we need to have a Stars Above planetarium program?
The planetarium requires a clear floor space of at least 18’ X 18’ and a room that is at least 11’ tall. There must be a standard electric outlet within 50’ of an area this size. The planetarium cannot be set up outdoors.
How many people can fit in the planetarium at once?
The Stars Above planetarium can fit about 25 younger students plus the teachers and aides. For older students or general public presentation the planetarium can fit between 15-20 people comfortably.
What happens during a fire alarm or other emergency?
In an emergency the portable planetarium comes down in less than 20 seconds. The presenter simply lifts up the front side of the dome and the dome arcs over seated guests to land in a nice compressed-accordion pile behind them.
Is the planetarium accessible for all?
A few wheelchairs can be brought into the planetarium by lifting the inflated dome up and scooting in, one at a time. Visitors in wheelchairs will be the first ones in, and the last ones out.
Backs Problems and other Common Ailments If you can't crawl or sit on the floor, please let us know. We can provide a few upright chairs for any planetarium program.
Hearing Impaired Individuals We do not have the ability to sign our presentations directly and we do not have closed captioning. However, the planetarium presenter wears a radio microphone and some text is displayed in the dome. If a planetarium guest has a sign language interpreter, we will provide a red flashlight that gives enough light for the guest to both see the interpreter and the sky at the same time.
Blind and Seeing Impaired Individuals Planetarium shows are audio-visual presentations. Half of audio-visual is sound; the audio alone can be educational and entertaining.
Seizure-related Impairment Our planetarium programs are conducted in a dark setting. The lights are dimmed slowly; the visual effects are gentle and do not strobe or pulse. If you have a concern about a guest with a history of seizures, please let us know.