LUMBERTON — The Robeson County Planetarium and Science Center knows that even stargazers need a break from the sun. That’s partly why the Caton Road facility is offering free programs and events in August.
Some children might balk at spending their last few weeks off school learning about the cosmos, but planetarium director Ken Brandt says it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to appreciate rockets and science.
“It’s a lot of fun and I encourage people to be inquisitive, ask questions and explore the space,” he said. “If they come in knowing a little bit, that’s great. But if they know nothing, we’ll teach them.”
The planetarium boasts an auditorium with a full-dome video projector that blankets the ceiling with twinkling constellations and recent footage from space. The Science Center features an array of interactive exhibits, ranging from a bicycle-powered light bulb to a flume where guests can rummage for minerals in water.
In addition to hands-on exhibits, the Science Center is home to a one-third scale model of the Lunar Lander constructed by NASA. It’s one of only four models in existence.
“There’s definitely something for the whole family,” Brandt said. “When you leave and look at the stars and planets at night, you can actually tell people what’s up there.”
The Robeson County Planetarium and Science Center was established as part of the Public Schools of Robeson County in 1969 — the year Apollo 11 carried the first group of astronauts to the moon. Brandt said his predecessor, science teacher James Hooks, was instrumental role in securing funding from NASA to build the facility.
The building is powered by a combination solar panel/wind turbine system that generates 200 watts of electricity per hour.
Brandt says the planetarium has seen a significant increase in traffic during the past few months.
“We seem to be pretty popular this summer and we’re getting good word of mouth,” he said. “People are hearing about us through the Lumberton Visitors Bureau and some work we’ve been doing on Facebook.”
The planetarium has also benefited from interest surrounding the New Horizons probe, which made headlines earlier this month when it became the first spacecraft to explore Pluto. Shortly after the probe reached the ex-planet, Brandt orchestrated a Skype conversation between planetarium visitors and one of the scientists involved with New Horizons’ solar wind experiments on Pluto.
“If you want an experience that is out of this world, bring your family to the Robeson Planetarium,” Brandt said.
Beginning Aug. 4, summer programs will be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Admission is free and seating is limited to 65 people. A full schedule of programs can be viewed at robeson.k12.nc.us/Domain/47.
The Robeson County Planetarium and Science Center is located at 420 Caton Road in Lumberton. For information, For information, call 910-735-2148.
