West Hollywood
Updated on Apr 29 2024 7:03am
Nestled in the vibrant South Campus region of UCLA, the UCLA Planetarium offers a captivating journey through the cosmos. If the scattered stars of the LA sky leave you yearning for more, this is the place to be. With free lectures on Wednesday evenings, mesmerizing planetarium shows, and telescope viewing opportunities, the Planetarium provides an immersive experience for astronomers of all ages. Perched atop the Mathematical Sciences Building, it offers breathtaking views of UCLA's campus and the enchanting lights of Westwood Village. Since its construction in 1957, this 24-foot diameter dome has been a haven for celestial enthusiasts, hosting three different star projectors over the years. With seating for 49 people, the UCLA Planetarium provides a unique and intimate setting for visitors to delve into the mysteries of the universe. Whether it's introductory astronomy classes, community events, or educational groups, the facility offers an array of shows presented by UCLA's Astronomy graduate students. Furthermore, the heart of the planetarium lies in its star projector, utilizing a constellation of incandescent light bulbs and pinhole screens to recreate the awe-inspiring night sky within its bug-like appearance. To top it off, the public viewing telescope, a Celestron 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain reflector, mounted on a Celestron CGE Pro mount, awaits on the rooftop of the Mathematical Sciences Building. With powerful magnifications and crystal-clear lenses, it unveils mesmerizing details on the lunar surface, cloud patterns on Jupiter, Saturn's majestic rings, dazzling star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. Embark on a celestial adventure and unlock the mysteries of the universe at the UCLA Planetarium.