The Robinson Planetarium

Serving the Adrian community in a variety of ways, the Robinson Planetarium supports the teaching of the college’s astronomy courses while also hosting a range of engaging and educational programs throughout the academic year. These shows are free and open to the public. Special shows for K–12 school groups may be arranged by emailing mfairclough@adrian.edu.

Location

The Robinson Planetarium is housed in Peelle Hall, which sits at the corner of Charles and Williams streets. The entrance is on Williams Street.

Schedule:

Every Friday in September, Adrian College’s Robinson Planetarium will focus on Voyager 1, a robotic space probe launched in 1977 to explore the outer planets and beyond. In a short documentary narrated by Garan Patrick, the planetarium will follow the robotic spacecraft from its launch all the way to where it is today and explore its mission into the future.

Current astronomy-related events will also be covered, along with a look at which constellations are visible in the night sky this fall.

All programs start promptly at 7 p.m. and last for approximately 40 to 50 minutes.

Private shows for groups/field trips are available by appointment.

For more information, contact Robinson Planetarium Director Mark Fairclough at 265.5161 ext. 4788 or email mfairclough@adrian.edu.

History

Built in 1966, the Robinson Planetarium features a 30-foot dome and a Spitz A-3-P star projector. The planetarium is named after distinguished industrialist Herbert Robinson, who provided funds for the construction of the facility. In 2012, the planetarium received a fresh look and Full Dome capabilities, renovations that were funded through generous gifts from the Maurice and Dorothy Stubnitz Foundation.

Contact

Mark Fairclough - Director of the Robinson Planetarium & Observatory
Email: mfairclough@adrian.edu
Office: Peelle Hall (Planetarium)
Office Ext.: 4788