'Let it Snow' in the planetarium

Georgia Southern University physics department will illuminate the planetarium with lasers and thematic animations this Saturday at 4 p.m. with the sounds of holiday music favorites.

“Let It Snow: A Holiday Music Journey” will showcase a kaleidoscopic light show projected onto the domed roof of the planetarium using the center’s new Digistar 4 projection system.

The show features festive music from popular artists such as Frank Sinatra, Chuck Berry, Burl Ives, Ella Fitzgerald and many others. It will be concluded with a special multi-media finale by the popular band Trans Siberian Orchestra.

A star show presentation will precede “Let It Snow.” The constellations in the night sky will project onto the domed ceiling of the planetarium.

There will also be a viewing of Jupiter on the roof of the planetarium through telescopes if weather permits.

“The star show will demonstrate what people will be able to see with only the naked eye in the night sky over the break. It’s wonderful and free,” astronomy lab coordinator, Becky Lowder, said.

A telescope workshop will be held in the lobby before and after the show.

Students and astronomy professors will assist visitors with personal telescope problems or offer advice for those looking to purchase a telescope during the holidays.

“With Christmas coming up, a lot of people are thinking of buying telescopes. You’d be surprised at how affordable a good telescope can be,” Lowder said.

The Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake City, Utah originally produced the show.

“With the new projection system, we are able to immerse students and visitors in everything from the wonders of the universe to the wonders of Santa’s workshop,” Lowder said.

Lowder and her colleagues learned about the show while at a conference for users of the Digistar 4 system at Clark.

The half-hour event will take audience members on a journey to the North Pole, through Santa’s workshop as well as showcase a variety of other festive images. Classic holiday music will accompany the immersive display.

“My favorite part is the finale. With the Digistar 4 system we now have the ability to have real light shows,” D.J. Cistola, a junior physics major, said.

Audience members are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items to the event for the local food banks. Seating is limited and will be on a first come, first serve basis.

Lowder said, “I strongly encourage students to come take a break from studying for their finals, relax, enjoy a very cool show and get into the holiday spirit.”