Skip To Main Content

Language Selection

Available Programs

Planetarium Programs last approximately 75 minutes and cost $100.00. The traditional start time is 9:00 am, however this time can be adjusted by request. Programs are designed and produced to meet and exceed the NGSS Standards for each grade level.

Early Elementary (1st-2nd Grade)  

This program is designed to introduce the wonders of the sky to a curious young audience.

  • ESS1-1
    • Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.
  • ESS1-2
    • Make observataions at different times of the year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
  • PS4-2
    • Make observations and use evidence to account for the fact that space objects ( moon and planets) can only be seen when illuminated.
  • PS4-3
    • Investigate how light is affected by different materials placed in front of it. Emphasis will be placed on telescopes and glass prisms and their effects on light.
  • ETS1-1
    • Students will gather information and ask questions about space travel and the use of alternate energy sources.

Programs will also cover current topics in astronomy as well as the history and folklore of ancient sky watchers.

Intermediate Elementary (3rd-4th Grade)  

This program is designed to introduce astronomy to the curious young student. Topics include:

  • LS4-1
    • Analyze and interpret data from fossils, past environments, and extinction events and correlate to events in space.
  • LS4-3
    • Construct arguments using evidence that change in habitats cause life to flourish or not. Incorporate the effects of space phenomenon to Earth.
  • ESS2-1
    • Use graphical details to describe weather on Earth and in Space.
  • 3-PS2-1
    • Plan investigations to show how balanced and unbalanced forces affect the motion of space objects. Focus on space ships, satellites, asteroids, and comets.
  • 3-PS2-2
    • Make observations and measurements of an objects motion and use this pattern to predict future motion. Emphasis will be placed on planetary motion.
  • 3-PS2-3
    • Determine cause and effect relationships between electric and magnetic forces. The Earth's magnetic field, Iron-Nickel core, and the northern lights will be studied extensively.

Programs will also cover current topics in astronomy including space travel and astronauts. 

Upper Elementary (5th-6th Grade) 

This program is designed to challenge the developing young scientific mind based on the latest NGSS Standards and Targets.

  • 5-ESS1-1
    • Study the differences in brightness and color of stars to help determine their relative distances and temperature.
  • 5-ESS1-2
    • Graphically reveal daily, seasonal, and yearly patterns in day, night, shadows based on the interactions between the Sun -Earth System. Changes in seasonal stars and constellations will be emphasized.
  • 5-ESS2-1
    • Model interactions between the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. Concentrate on the the boundary between the upper atmosphere and space and the protective properties of the Magnetoshere and the Ozone Layer.
  • 5-ESS3-1
    • Learn information to help protect Earth's resources. This program explores space weather, coronal mass ejections, solar maximum, and dangers of humans in the space environment.
  • 5-PS1-1 
    • Describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen by the human eye. Programs will emphasize photons and the electromagnetic spectrum including infra-red, ultraviolet,and gamma radiation.

Programs will also include current topics in astronomy as well ancient sky myths. 

How to Schedule a Program:
  1. Select the program that fits your grade level
  2. Select the date (look at the calendar for availability) Programs are from 9:00 am - 10:15 am. Start times may vary, but must be no later than 9:30 am. 
  3. E-mail Mr. Black (robert.black@medford.k12.or.us) or phone (541) 842-5308. You will receive an e-mail confirmation of the date and time of your program.
Planetarium Etiquette:
  • No food, drinks or gum are allowed in the planetarium
  • Students should keep their feet off of the back of the seats
  • Remind students to be quiet while the teacher is instructing
  • Please tell students not to touch the new projector or the Director's Console

If you will be late for your program call or e-mail the Planetarium Director

New Rule: No shoes that" light up" as they distract from our view of the sky!