Hallstrom Planetarium Series of Free STEAM Talks begins Saturday, October 1

September 30, 2022 Jon Pine

FORT PIERCE—The Hallstrom Planetarium at Indian River State College (IRSC) will host an Open House and the first of four Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) Talks of the season this Saturday, October 1, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The new Planetarium Gift Shop also officially opens.

Astronomical Society Member

A member of the Treasure Coast Astronomical Society sets up a telescope to share.

Each of these events is free and geared toward adults and children ages 10 and older. In addition to a 45-minute STEAM talk, the Planetarium and gift shop are open for tours. Weather-permitting, members of the Treasure Coast Astronomical Society will be on hand to offer guided views through telescopes of the night sky.

The October 1st talk is “A Year Full of Stars”—a preview of the upcoming shows at the planetarium hosted by Planetarium Director Jon U. Bell. Additional upcoming STEAM talks include:

“Astronomy Day and NASA Update” on January 28, 3:00–9:00 p.m.
Hear Russell Romanella, former Director of Safety and Mission Assurance for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Florida, discuss NASA, the space program, and the exploration of the Universe. The Treasure Coast Astronomical Society will provide exhibits with telescopes, activities for the family, and guided views of the sky after the presentation—weather permitting.

“The Friendly Robot—The Modern Planetarium” March 25, 6:00 p.m.
The IRSC planetarium projector is 30 years old in March 2023. See this modern marvel and learn how it works during this lecture by Planetarium Director Jon U. Bell.

“Pythagoras and the Music of the Spheres” June 10, 6:00 p.m.
Attend this lecture presented by IRSC math instructor Dr. Michael Reynolds to learn about the interconnections between math, music and science.

Planetarium shows are recommended for adults and children over the age of ten. The air temperature is maintained at 72 degrees. Participants may wish to bring a sweater or light jacket. For a complete schedule of shows and events at the Hallstrom Planetarium and to purchase tickets visit irsc.edu/community/planetarium.

The Planetarium is located on the IRSC Massey Campus at 3209 Virginia Ave. in Fort Pierce. The box office is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or you may call 800-220-9915 to reserve seats.

Be sure to tune in weekday mornings, afternoons and evenings for Skywatch—a daily one-minute look skyward hosted by Planetarium Director Jon U. Bell—at 6:40 a.m., 8:40 a.m., and 11:59 a.m. and at 7:41 p.m. on WQCS 88.9 FM, and at 7:59 a.m. and 12:59 p.m. on WQCP 91.9 FM.