Stargazing, Science and a Historic Spacesuit Farewell Highlight May at Triton College’s Cernan Earth and Space Center

RIVER GROVE, Ill. — With the Earth’s northern hemisphere leaning increasingly toward the sun, warm weather, longer days and summer fun are just around the corner. But there’s no need to wait for the excitement, because the Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College is offering a stellar mix of thrilling and educational programs this May, perfect for the whole family.

The schedule highlights a variety of ways to engage with space science and storytelling, from hands‑on observing opportunities to immersive experiences inside the planetarium.

“This May’s lineup has something for everyone,” said Cernan Center Director Kris McCall. “You can celebrate a piece of Apollo history, observe the Moon and Jupiter through telescopes, rock out in a laser show or explore the cosmos, Earth, and the human eye under the dome.”

May Events at the Cernan Earth and Space Center

Spacesuit Retirement Party
Sunday, May 17 | 2–4 p.m.
Free and open to the public

After 40 years on display, Gene Cernan’s flown Apollo 10 spacesuit will soon retire to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum for restoration.

Celebrate its legacy at a special retirement event featuring a short planetarium program, trivia challenge, and curator-led insights into exhibit hall artifacts. Guests are encouraged to wear space-themed attire, from full costumes to NASA T-shirts, and can take photos at a themed backdrop.

Admission is free. Visitors will also receive 10% off purchases at the Star Store Gift Shop during the event.

Public Telescope Observing
Saturday, May 23 | 9–10:30 p.m.
Free and open to the public

Observe the night sky through telescopes provided by the Cernan Earth and Space Center and the Chicago Astronomical Society. Featured celestial objects include the Moon and Jupiter.

Weekly Planetarium Programs

Saturdays
7 p.m. — Seeing: A Photon’s Journey Across Space, Time and Mind
Follow a photon’s journey across the galaxy and into the human eye, exploring both the science of light and human perception through immersive visuals.

8:30 p.m. — Cosmic Light Show: Laser Van Halen
Experience Van Halen hits set to dazzling laser effects, stars, and digital visuals in this high-energy music show.

Wednesdays
9:45 a.m. — Rusty Rocket’s Last Blast
A family-friendly introduction to the solar system, where young explorers learn the basics of space travel.

2:30 p.m. — Habitat Earth: Living in a Connected World
Explore Earth’s ecosystems and the interconnected relationships between humans and the natural world.

Astronomical Highlights

May 18 (just after sunset)
A slim crescent Moon appears near bright Venus low in the western sky. Binoculars may be needed to spot the Moon.

May 19–20
The crescent Moon passes between Venus and Jupiter, then appears above Jupiter the following night.

May 18–June 11
Venus and Jupiter gradually move closer together in the evening sky, culminating in a close pairing on June 9, when Venus shines prominently beside Jupiter.

May 31
Once in a blue moon — or roughly every 2.7 years — there are two full moons in a calendar month. This May is one such month. Despite its name, the Moon will not appear blue. It is simply a coincidence that two full moons occur in a single month, because the time between one full moon and the next is about 29.5 days.

###

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.