The BGSU Planetarium is gearing up for an exciting nine-part series, America 250 in the Planetarium, running from July 13 to 31. This event is a celebration of American discovery, innovation, and values through a diverse range of topics, including astronomy, history, art, and music. Each program promises to be an enlightening journey through time and space, offering a unique perspective on our nation's rich heritage.
One of the highlights of the series is the exploration of America's lunar missions. On July 13, Andrew Layden, a professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy, will delve into the history of America's lunar exploration, from the early days of unmanned probes to the iconic Apollo missions and the cutting-edge Artemis missions. Layden's talk will be followed by the planetarium show 'Dawn of the Space Age,' providing a comprehensive experience for attendees.
The series also delves into the political and social landscape of the 18th century, with a focus on the 'pamphlet wars' between British and American thinkers. On July 15, Michelle Sweetser, head librarian at the BGSU Center for Archival Collections, will present 'Pamphlets Before the Revolution: Voices from a Growing Crisis.' This program will offer a glimpse into the debates and discussions that shaped the American Revolution, shedding light on the complexities of colonial life.
The Voyager spacecraft, launched in 1977, will take center stage on July 17. Kate Dellenbusch, a teaching professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy, will discuss the remarkable journey of the Voyager 1 and 2, which have become the most distant manmade objects in space. Dellenbusch will explore the challenges and achievements of these spacecraft, as well as their ongoing contributions to our understanding of interstellar space.
The series also examines the collaboration between the United States and Russia in space exploration. On July 20, Daria Filippova, a teaching professor in the Department of Mathematics, will share her fascination with space exploration and her personal experiences visiting museums and launch sites. Filippova's talk will highlight the transition from rivalry to partnership, showcasing the benefits of international cooperation in space.
Amilcar Challú, a professor in the Department of History, will take us on a journey through native and European astronomical knowledge in the Americas around the time of the American Revolution. His talk, 'Navigating with the Stars in the Vast Early Americas,' will be followed by the planetarium show 'Navigating with Lewis & Clark.'
The series also delves into the cultural significance of the Moon in American history. On July 24, Dellenbusch will explore the role of the Moon in Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, examining the historical accuracy of Longfellow's poem 'Paul Revere's Ride.' The talk will be followed by the planetarium show 'The Wright Way to Fly.'
Ryan Ebright, an associate professor in the College of Musical Arts, will present 'Glass Astronomers: Galileo Galilei and Johannes Kepler in American Opera' on July 27. This program will showcase how space and astronomy are dramatized in Philip Glass's operas, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of art and science.
On July 29, Andrew Hershberger, a professor in the School of Art, will discuss Alexander Calder's innovative mobile sculptures, which were inspired by the movement of planets and celestial bodies. This talk, 'The Universe as Model: Alexander Calder’s Mobile Sculptures in American Art History,' will be followed by the planetarium show 'Navigating with Lewis & Clark.'
The series concludes with 'Founding Voices Under the Stars,' where Dellenbusch will read seminal American documents, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights, under the night sky on the day they were signed. This program will also feature live fife and drum music, adding a touch of historical flair.
The America 250 in the Planetarium series is a testament to the BGSU Planetarium's commitment to educating and entertaining the community. With a diverse range of topics and engaging presentations, this event is a must-attend for anyone interested in American history, science, and culture. For more information, visit the planetarium website at bgsu.edu/planetarium.
