Soon everyone will be able to enjoy the stars. 

The Ric and Jean Edelman Planetarium, located in the science hall, is looking towards creating a more accessible environment. The Edelman Planetarium recently was given a grant to certify full-time employees of the planetarium to care for children with autism. 

“We’re trying to reach more people, who otherwise wouldn’t get to have this experience,” said Connor Marti, planetarium assistant. 

According to Marti, The planetarium has plans for acquiring sensory packs that would help ground and accommodate individual audiences. These packs would include ear muffs to help mitigate loud noises, and tactile devices to help with fidgeting. 

These packs would be available for both students and members of the public.

“It’s something we’re trying to work on,” said Marti, “We’re committed to continual progress to servicing more diverse audiences.” 

The planetarium currently includes ramps that allow ease of access for those with physical disabilities, as well as audience-requestable tweaks to the show’s lighting systems and lowering of sound levels.

The planetarium also has virtual showings for reservation.

The Edelman planetarium, first constructed in 2004, remains a reliable resource for educators in the tri-state area. Free school field trips from elementary, middle, and high schools frequent Rowan University for private showings.

Private showings for fields outside of astronomy also are available. History, biology, and animation courses have utilized this resource. Depicting Ancient Mayan folktales, Shuffling microorganisms, and splats of greens, reds, and blues on the planetarium’s screen.

“This is another way for people to learn, ask new questions, and engage with visual material,” said Dr. Jessica Mack, Ph.D., assistant professor of history. “I think it’s very valuable.”

Mack believes that more professors should use the planetarium as a teaching tool. Due to the Edelman grant, all educational institutions or classes can use the planetarium for no charge. 

“Not all students learn the same way, so finding meaningful activities outside the class can help alternative learners feel included as well,” said Ouiyana Goodman, a senior history major. 

The Planetarium also performs public showings for members of the public and Rowan students every weekend. Featuring shows such as ‘Laser Taylor Swift’ and ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ by Pink Floyd. 

Student, child, and senior fares per show are $5. Adult fares are $8 per show.

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