As Mars comes around for a close approach to Earth, the Delta College Planetarium invites you to celebrate the phenomenon with a captivating evening all about the Red Planet. All ages are welcome to engage in fun, hands-on activities, demonstrations, a live planetarium show and telescope observation from the best view in Downtown Bay City—the planetarium rooftop.

The festivities begin in the Grand Atrium Lobby with activity tables and demonstrations. At 7pm, move to the Dome360 Theater for an immersive presentation of “Dateline: Mars” led by Planetarium Manager Mike Murray. This remarkable show provides a guided tour of Mars, which includes the latest insights from spacecraft and tips on how best to observe the rocky planet from Earth.  

“Mars and Earth approach each other every 26 months, and some of those close passes are better than others,” says Murray. “Mars won’t get this close to Earth again until 2031, and so it’s a good time to enjoy it through telescopes or online as there are many resources available.”

The sky-observing portion of the event is dependent upon suitable weather conditions, but the indoor shows and activities will run rain, snow or shine. This event is free and open to the public.

To learn more about other shows and events at the planetarium, visit the planetarium’s website or call 989-667-2260. The Delta College Planetarium is located in Downtown Bay City at 100 Center Avenue.