The Hurst Planetarium at Ella Sharp Museum

This magical planetarium is managed by the Ella Sharp Museum. Public astronomy shows are presented under the 30-foot dome throughout the year with a new state-of-the art OmniStar projector. The Planetarium offers shows featuring a live presentation of the stars, virtual night sky tours, private planetarium events and shows, night sky observing programs, and is a virtual classroom resource for parents and educations and scouting groups.

The newly updated planetarium offers an amazing and unique venue for private events including birthday parties, baby showers, graduation open houses, anniversaries, weddings, receptions & more.

The Planetarium is also available for private shows virtually. In 2020 the staff of Ella Sharp Museum provided multiple shows for a families all across the world from India to New York.

Featured Events & Programming

Explore the Night: Night Hike & Guided Telescope Observing

Starting April 22

Let’s explore and use our night senses! Join Ella Sharp Museum and the Dahlem Center for a wonderful night under the stars! The night walk, led by Dahlem Naturalist Educator Carrie Benham, is to help people enjoy being outdoors after dark, help them feel safe, and share information about nocturnal animals, the senses they use at night, and how we can better develop our own senses and awareness of the dark.

Robots on Mars

April 25

Mars is Earth’s most accessible planetary neighbor. With the help of all kinds of robotic friends, scientists hope to learn as much as they can about Mars and its mysterious past. “Robots on Mars” will visit these robotic scientists as they look for water, fly high above in space, and search for alien life, with a highlight on the new Perseverance rover and its little helicopter companion, Ingenuity.

Toddler Tours (SOLD OUT)

May 15 & 16 @ 11:00am

It’s never too early to start visiting planetariums! Bring the little ones for a tour of shapes in the night sky and accompanying activities and art project. This experience is specially designed for ages 2-5. The program is approximately 45 minutes in duration and is limited to 10 families.

Rent the Planetarium

The Hurst Planetarium is an “Out of this world” event rental space for your next birthday party, anniversary celebration, small wedding, baby shower, and more! The intimate 30-foot starlit dome holds approximately 50 guests at theater-style or rounds and captivates visitors of all ages. Private events in the planetarium are also equipped with colorful lighting, personalized programming that can feature museum quality shows, visuals, and flexible offerings. Contact our event coordinator at 517-787-2320 or by email.

In-Person Private Shows

Date & Time By Request

Look no further for a unique personalized experience through time and space. The Hurst Planetarium is available for private shows for your family, friends, club or classroom. We can show you the night sky from any place and time on Earth, travel throughout the solar system, or visit the edge of the observable universe! A Hurst Planetarium show is perfect for a one-of-a-kind family event, classroom program, special date night, anniversary gift, and more!   Call to make a reservation!

Virtual Night Sky Tours

Date & Time By Request

Experience the night sky from the comfort of your home or back yard! Ella Sharp Museum is offering virtual night sky tours. These tours will show you what’s currently in your night sky, when to look for it, and the easiest ways to observe. This is perfect for at home birthdays or any special occasion. Programming will be personalized for the guest of honor.