Explore the universe at the Robert J. Novins Planetarium at Ocean County College, Toms River, this summer. The following new summer and special-events schedule has been announced:
The summer schedule will run from July 2 to Aug. 29. Tickets may be purchased for $6 for adults (age 13 and over), $5 for senior citizens (age 60 and over), and $4.50 for children (ages 12 and under).
The following shows will be presented weekly Tuesday through Sunday:
• "Wonderful Sky" (recommended for ages 7 and under) will be presented at 11:30 a.m.
• "Exploring the Summer Sky" (recommended for all ages) will be presented at 1 p.m.
• "Destination: Earth" (recommended for ages 10 and above) will be presented at 2:30 p.m.
On Friday and Saturday an additional presentation of "Destination: Earth" will be held at 8 p.m., followed by a 10-15 minute "Star Talk," discussing highlights of the current night sky.
The following special events will take place at the planetarium:
• July 23, 9 p.m., "Summer Star Watch" — this free program will take place weather permitting.
• July 30 and 31, "Laser Days of Summer" — four different shows (see below) will be presented. They will include music, full-color lasers, video effects, fog, light beams, and more. Shows will be held at the following times:
— 4 p.m. "Summer Fun" — this family show will feature the music of The Beach Boys, Faith Hill, The Eagles, Louis Armstrong, Cheryl Crow, Neil Diamond and others.
— 7 p.m. "Summer of Love," a laser tribute to the rock ’n’ roll of the late ’60s and early ’70s, featuring the music of The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, The Grateful Dead, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and others.
— 8 p.m. "Pink Floyd: The Wall"
— 9 p.m. "Laser Floyd: Best of Echoes"
— 10 p.m. "Pink Floyd: The Wall"
Tickets for "Laser Days of Summer" are on sale now at a cost of $12 for adults (13 and over); $10 seniors (60 and over), OCC students, staff and alumni with valid ID; and $6 for children (12 and under).
On Aug. 27, 28 and 29 at 7 p.m., the Novins Planetarium will hold its 30th Anniversary Celebration. Events will be announced.
Please note that the planetarium will be closed July Fourth for Independence Day.
There will be no 11:30 a.m. showing of "Wonderful Sky" July 22 and no 8 p.m. showing of "Destination: Earth" July 30 and July 31 because of the showing of "Laser Days of Summer."
Details: (732) 255-0342. or www.ocean.edu/planet.htm.