SIUE Learning Resource Center Invites Community to Explore the Universe with Inflatable Planetarium

SIUE Learning Resource Center Invites Community to Explore the Universe with Inflatable Planetarium

The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville STEM Center in partnership with the Learning Resource Center (LRC) at the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus in East St. Louis will welcome the public at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8 for an educational experience featuring the return of an inflatable planetarium.

"Explore the Universe" is an event that offers participants of all ages the opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky during the day through an immersive astronomy presentation led by the SIUE STEM Center.

"I'm excited about bringing the inflatable planetarium back to the LRC," said Sarah Kirkpatrick, director of the Learning Resource Center and Campus Engagement. "It was last here in fall of 2023. The SIUE STEM Center is a great campus partner, and we are grateful for their time and expertise in bringing such a unique and fun resource to the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus."

The LRC will host local groups and youth organizations inside the planetarium for guided presentations. In addition to scheduled group visits, the event will include time for members of the public to experience the planetarium and discover the beauty of the night sky.

"We have groups from the community, as well as participants in our campus programs, coming to the planetarium, but we've also left time for the general public to come and gaze at the stars," said Kirkpatrick.

"The Learning Resource Center strives to create meaningful experiences that foster curiosity and a love of learning," said Amber Davis, LSW Learning Resource Coordinator. "Whether someone is visiting us for the first time as a preschooler or returning as an adult learner, our goal is to provide welcoming opportunities that encourage exploration, creativity and lifelong learning."

SIUE's LRC continues its mission of providing engaging educational opportunities that inspire curiosity and foster community connection. The inflatable planetarium is one of many interactive programs designed to make science and discovery accessible to learners at every age and stage of life.

The event is free and open to the public. Because space is limited, advance registration is required. For more information or to reserve a spot, contact the Learning Resource Center at 618-874-8719 or [email protected].

Photo: Young learners enjoy the view inside the Planetarium. Photo courtesy of Amber Davis.