Downing Planetarium

Discover the Fascinating Downing Planetarium in Fresno, California

The Downing Planetarium is a remarkable museum located in Fresno, United States, that offers visitors an extraordinary journey through the cosmos. This unique institution features a 74-seat star theater with a stunning 30-foot hemispherical dome. With its state-of-the-art Minolta MS-10 star projector, the planetarium is capable of filling the entire dome with captivating astronomical films and presentations.

Public Programs and Reservations

Downing Planetarium hosts public programs one weekend each month, taking place on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons. Due to the popularity of these events, tickets tend to sell out quickly, so making reservations is strongly recommended. Visitors can easily check the calendar on the museum’s website for current shows open to the public. Additionally, the planetarium offers tailored experiences for educational groups, including school field trips and private shows, which can be scheduled by appointment.

Explore the Lobby Exhibits

The lobby of Downing Planetarium is an inviting space that showcases a variety of educational exhibits. On the front side, you will find a notable donor wall, a photograph of the famous comet Hale-Bopp, a solar system scale display, an elements scale, a gravity well, and a sundial. The opposite side features intriguing display cases containing science toys and meteorites, providing an educational backdrop to the planetarium experience.

Location and Parking Information

Downing Planetarium is conveniently located at 5320 N Maple Ave, Fresno, CA 93710, at the corner of San Ramon and Maple, just south of Barstow Avenue. It is situated adjacent to the Science II Building of California State University, Fresno. For visitors, parking is available in lot P15. It’s essential to note that a parking permit is required during normal university hours, but permits are not needed during public shows that typically occur on weekends. For more detailed information on parking enforcement, individuals can visit the university’s parking enforcement webpage.

Contact Information and Assistance

If you have questions or need assistance, the Downing Planetarium can be reached via email at kharriso@csufresno.edu or by phone at 559-278-4071. For immediate assistance regarding the Physics Department, you can call 559-278-2371.

Experience the wonders of the universe at Downing Planetarium, where education meets entertainment in a stellar environment. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of astronomy or simply want to enjoy a night under the stars, Downing Planetarium is a must-visit destination in Fresno.