Cernan Center Brings Ancient Egypt, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and More to the Planetarium This November

RIVER GROVE, Ill. — The Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College offers programming for all ages this November, whether you’re looking to learn, experience an Earth-saving adventure or jam to musical hits in a laser light show.

Visitors can enjoy family-friendly educational programs and immersive fulldome experiences that demonstrate the astonishing capabilities of the Chicago-area planetarium. Recline in your seats, unwind and look up as you’re transported across space and time.

The schedule features a collection of shows that engage audiences with space and Earth through storytelling, as well as programs featuring the hits of iconic music artists while dazzling lights and moving images illuminate the planetarium dome. Travel back in time to ancient Egypt, see the world through the amazing eyes of Bank Swallows, ring in the holiday season with music from Trans-Siberian Orchestra or experience Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in a whole new way.

“If you haven’t yet visited us at the Cernan Earth and Space Center, what better time to do so than as we approach the holiday season?” said Director Kris Kovach-McCall. “Our November schedule offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking to explore the wonders of the universe, learn more about our planet or enjoy one of our popular laser light shows. We can’t wait to see you.”

All shows are open to the public and parking is free. Tickets may only be purchased at the Cernan Center’s Star Store on the day of the show, beginning 30 minutes before the first show of the day.

November Events at the Cernan Earth and Space Center

Free Telescope Observing
Saturday, Nov. 21 | 6:30-9 p.m.

Join the Cernan Earth and Space Center for an evening of free telescope observing, weather permitting. Guests can explore the night sky and observe celestial objects through telescopes.

Weekly Planetarium Programs

Saturdays

7 p.m. — Stars of the Pharaohs

Discover how ancient Egyptians studied the skies to tell time, create calendars and align monumental structures. Explore the connections they made between the stars and other celestial phenomena.

Narrated by John Rhys-Davies.

8:30 p.m. — Cosmic Light Show: Laser Taylor Swift

Celebrate the music of Taylor Swift through dazzling laser choreography, digital effects and a soundtrack featuring some of the pop superstar's biggest hits. Fans are encouraged to wear their friendship bracelets and get dressed up for an immersive Eras Tour-inspired experience beneath the planetarium dome.

Wednesdays

9:45 a.m. — The Stellars: Mission Green

Join the Stellars — Imani, Aki and John — when they crash-land on Earth and work to restore their spacecraft's ecosystem before they run out of food. This Earth science adventure explores how plants, pollinating insects and fungi help keep forests and their habitats healthy while encouraging audiences of all ages to use the scientific method and discover the importance of protecting nature.

2:30 p.m. — Beyond Our Senses: Bank Swallows

Discover the remarkable sensory world of bank swallows, a migratory bird that returns each spring from South America to nest along the bluffs of Lake Michigan. This immersive film follows a colony through nesting season, exploring the birds' courtship displays, nesting habits, predators and the extraordinary effort required to raise their young.

Special Schedule: Black Friday

Friday, Nov. 27

2:30 p.m. — Beyond Our Senses: Bank Swallows

Discover the remarkable sensory world of bank swallows, a migratory bird that returns each spring from South America to nest along the bluffs of Lake Michigan. This immersive film follows a colony through nesting season, exploring the birds' courtship displays, nesting habits, predators and the extraordinary effort required to raise their young.

4 p.m. — Laser Trans-Siberian Christmas

Celebrate the holiday season with the classic rock sounds of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, accompanied by brilliant laser light, stars and digital effects. Dramatic music and visuals combine for an immersive holiday experience to ignite the mood and hopeful spirit of the season.

Please note that laser shows feature loud music and bright, flashing lights that may cause discomfort for those with light sensitivity or other health conditions. Please use discretion when selecting programs.

Holiday Closures

Thursday, Nov. 26: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Follow the Cernan Earth and Space Center on Facebook and Instagram. For more information, including upcoming programs, visit the Cernan Center website.

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Media Contacts:
Melissa Ramirez Cooper | melissacooper@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3496
Hunter Oberst | hunteroberst@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3820

ABOUT TRITON COLLEGE:
Triton College, located at 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove, is a public institution of higher education dedicated to student success. Recently recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the Top 200 community colleges in the nation, Triton offers more than 130 degree and certificate programs that prepare students to pursue meaningful careers, transfer to four-year universities, and thrive in a global economy. Guided by our mission—Valuing the individual, educating and serving the community—Triton serves nearly 17,000 students annually on its 110-acre campus in River Grove, Illinois. Our dedicated faculty and staff provide high-quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities that empower students and strengthens the communities we serve. Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Illinois Community College Board. Illinois is home to 45 colleges in 39 community college districts. Learn more at triton.edu.