Astronomy for Grown-Ups

Explore big questions in space science and the latest discoveries in the cosmos through this monthly planetarium series for adults, held on the first Wednesday of each month.

Wednesday, October 7 — The First Fishstronauts
The humble mummichog, also known as Atlantic killifish, is a small fish found in salt marshes and tidepools along the East Coast. But did you know the mummichog was the first fish to earn its astronaut wings? In 1973, these tiny fish traveled aboard Skylab, the United States’ first space station, as part of an experiment exploring the effects of microgravity. Since then, mummichogs have continued to make their way into space. Why fish? And why mummichogs? Join us to find out!

Wednesday, November 4 — Voyage to Mercury
After a years-long journey through the Solar System, BepiColombo, the European Space Agency’s three-module spacecraft, is set to enter orbit around Mercury. The smallest planet in the Solar System may not seem particularly charismatic at first glance—it looks a bit like a larger version of the Moon—but Mercury holds clues that can’t be found anywhere else. This month, take a close look at BepiColombo’s complex mission and discover what scientists hope to learn about this surprisingly fascinating world.

Recommended for ages 18+; 60-minute show plus Q&A. Advance ticket purchase is encouraged.

Photo: Jeana Wunderlich