Ward Beecher Planetarium reopening includes alumni and friends event

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – The Ward Beecher Planetarium is reopening with an alumni and friends preview event.

Repairs to the planetarium are complete following a fire in January 2023. The $1.5 million reconstruction project includes new, state-of-the-art equipment, a new dome and digital surround sound, among other improvements.

A preview event is scheduled for alumni and friends on Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 6-8 p.m. It will be one of the first shows in the newly renovated space.

The event will be hosted by Dr. Patrick Durrell, a distinguished professor of astronomy, and Planetarium Engineer Cury Spivey.

The event will begin with light refreshments at 6 p.m. on the fifth floor of Maag Library followed by a 7 p.m. lecture and question and answer session in the Ward Beecher Planetarium.

The event is free but space is limited. Reservations are required and can be submitted online.

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