Longo Planetarium at County College of Morris unveils dazzling fall lineup of cosmic shows
RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — The Longo Planetarium at County College of Morris (CCM) is inviting audiences to explore the wonders of the universe this fall with three new shows running through Dec. 13. From supernovas and constellations to colorful journeys across the electromagnetic spectrum, visitors can experience the cosmos under the planetarium’s 33-foot dome.
The lineup includes “Cosmic Colors,” a vibrant show designed for children and families that explores why the sky is blue, why Mars is red and how black holes emit X-rays. Viewers will travel inside a leaf, voyage through the human eye and uncover the invisible universe in this 45-minute program, recommended for ages 8 and older. Showtimes are select Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 2 p.m.
Astronomy enthusiasts can also catch “Messengers of Time and Space,” which takes an in-depth look at how observatories such as the twin Gemini telescopes and the Rubin Observatory are mapping the cosmos and tracking celestial phenomena, including comets and pulsating stars. The 45-minute program includes a guided tour of the current night sky and planets, shown on select Fridays at 9 p.m. and Saturdays at 3:30 p.m. It is recommended for ages 10 and up.
Rounding out the fall season is “Starlit Nights,” a live-guided tour presented by CCM Planetarium Astronomer Kevin Conod. Using the state-of-the-art Digistar 7 system, Conod will lead audiences through constellations, clusters and Saturn, which is easily visible this fall. The 45-minute program is shown on select Saturdays at 5 p.m. and is suitable for ages 8 and up.
Tickets are $10 per person, and online reservations are strongly encouraged due to limited on-site availability. For trailers, showtimes and ticketing information, visit www.ccm.edu/meet-ccm/longo-planetarium. For weather-related updates, call (973) 328-5580.
The Longo Planetarium is located in Cohen Hall, Room 207, at County College of Morris, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. The nearest parking is in Lot 7.
