Upgraded and Refurbished, Trenton’s New Jersey State Museum Planetarium Re-Opens to Public on September 12
New Digital Equipment Boosts “Wow” Factor Astronomically in Largest Public
Planetarium between Philadelphia and New York City
Trenton , NJ - When the 145-seat planetarium at the NJ State Museum re-opens after a major renovation and technical upgrade on September 12, science education will make a great leap forward in the state.
The planetarium now boasts a five-projector, full dome immersive video and digital surround sound system, providing seamless, 360-degree sound and imagery, filling viewers' senses with the wonder and awe of the universe.
Secretary of State Nina Wells says, “ New Jersey audiences are in for a rare treat. Nothing can compare to breathtaking images of the universe beyond Earth's atmosphere, and families can have a wonderful time experiencing a sense of awe and discovery together at the planetarium. It's just one facet of the exciting educational assets to be found at the NJ State Museum.”
The upgrade includes:
? A new five-projector, 360-degree hi-def, hi-res immersive video system;
? A n ew surround sound system;
? New computer system to seamlessly tie the sound and images together; and
? Refurbished original 1965 cast-iron, wood, vinyl and fabric seating.
Other attributes that make experiences in this planetarium unusually powerful are:
? The ability to integrate special effects, slides, analog, and 3D laser functionality with the new immersive systems;
? A sloping floor specially designed to give every seat the best possible viewing angle at normal postures, and excellent lines of sight from every seat.
Eric Pryor, director of the NJ State Museum says, “There is a sense of wonder and magic when families and school groups visit the planetarium. Their journey begins when they pass along a low-light corridor lined with up-to-date exhibits about space and the planetary system. When they enter the planetarium itself, they stare in wonder at the domed, perforated aluminum screen and the massive central projector. We often have to remind them to take a seat! Then the show begins and visitors are transfixed. To see the wonder in their eyes as they fly through the asteroid belt and look back towards Earth or visit far-flung star systems, is always inspiring to me.”
Major portions of the renovation and upgrade were funded by the Prudential Foundation and the Friends of the New Jersey State Museum . Nicole Jannotte, Executive Director of the Friends says, “The NJ State Museum offers a rich and multi-faceted approach to serving the life-long needs of our residents and visitors. We are privileged to provide financial and volunteer support for its programs.”
Gabriella Morris , president of The Prudential Foundation and vice president of Community Resources for Prudential Financial, says, "Increasing awareness and interest in science and technology are key to a stronger New Jersey. We believe that nothing excites the imagination of young people like a planetarium, especially a newly renovated one. I believe that any child experiencing this facility will be forever changed. Our support for this wonderful new asset reflects our commitment to the future of the state."
Show Times: Saturday and Sundays: 1:00 pm , 2:00 pm , 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm
General Admission: The New Jersey State Museum 's Planetarium does not offer advance ticket sales to the public. Show tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis available at the Planetarium box office the day of the show.
Prices: Adults: $5, Child (age 12 and under): $4, groups of 15 or more: $4 per person; Friends of the NJSM receive $1 off per ticket, up to a maximum of four.
School Reservations: For school and community groups, the Planetarium also offers weekday programming annually through June. Advance reservations are required. For more information or to schedule a trip, please call (609) 292-6347.
The New Jersey State Museums serves the life-long educational needs of residents and visitors through its collections, exhibitions, programs, publications and scholarships in science, history, and the arts. Within a broad context, the Museum explores the natural and cultural diversity of New Jersey , past and present. The Museum is located at 205 West State Street , Trenton , NJ . See www.newjerseystatemuseum.org for details or call the recorded information line at 609-292-6464.
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