West Hollywood
Last Updated on May 02, 2025
The UCLA Planetarium offers a fascinating journey through space with cutting-edge astronomy presentations. Public stargazing nights allow visitors to observe celestial wonders through powerful telescopes. Live planetarium shows showcase the latest astronomical discoveries. Lectures by UCLA astronomers provide insights into space exploration. Constellation tours help visitors identify stars and planets in the night sky. Special events for meteor showers offer prime viewing opportunities. Hands-on science activities engage visitors of all ages. 3D space simulations create an immersive cosmic experience. Astronomy workshops teach the basics of telescopes and astrophotography. Collaborations with NASA scientists bring cutting-edge research to the public. Educational programs for schools inspire young minds to explore the universe.
Discover the wonders of the universe at the UCLA Planetarium, where free public shows provide an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Led by UCLA’s astronomy graduate students, each show explores topics such as the night sky, constellations, and fascinating astronomical phenomena. Whether you're a space enthusiast or just looking for an inspiring night out, the UCLA Planetarium offers a stellar opportunity to learn about the cosmos.
Every Wednesday evening during UCLA’s Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters, the UCLA Planetarium hosts free public shows, making space exploration accessible to all. The showtimes vary by season, starting at 8 PM between April and October and at 7 PM from November to March. Each show lasts about 60 minutes, divided into a special topic discussion and a star show, offering an immersive celestial experience.
Public show tickets are completely free and can be reserved online one week in advance for guaranteed seating. Additional tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the venue, beginning an hour before the show. Ticket holders must arrive at least 15 minutes before showtime to secure their seats, as late arrivals are not permitted.
The UCLA Planetarium features a rotating lineup of special presentations. Highlights include Romancing the Stars II by Michael Karkar on February 12 and upcoming shows by Mathew Yu and Michael Karkar later in the month. Each presentation offers a unique perspective on celestial events and deep-space wonders.
Educational groups of 15 or more can request private planetarium shows by submitting a request form. Private showings are designed for schools and educational institutions, providing a tailored learning experience. Requests for Spring 2025 must be submitted by March 28 to secure a session.
The UCLA Planetarium is situated on the 8th floor of the Mathematical Sciences Building on the UCLA campus. Easily accessible from various parts of Los Angeles, the venue provides an incredible opportunity for students, families, and astronomy enthusiasts to experience the night sky like never before. Be sure to check the UCLA academic calendar for specific show dates and plan your visit accordingly.