Shoot for the moon and you’ll land in the stars at the PennWest Edinboro Planetarium.

Whether you want to stargaze, journey to distant galaxies or explore the solar system, you’ll find our planetarium to be the gateway to the universe..

Planetarium Director Dr. David Hurd welcomes all visitors and guests to take part in programs offered at the multi-functional planetarium. Not only do the students of PennWest Edinboro benefit from the planetarium, but local schools and the general public can take advantage of the planetarium through free public and academic programs.

The Planetarium at PennWest Edinboro offers dynamic, hands-on educational experiences in which students and the public can learn about astronomy-related programs, the stars and various constellations.

Do You Love Science? Consider Joining CHAOS

CHAOS (Cooper Hall Ambassadors of Science) provides PennWest Edinboro students of all majors with an opportunity to work directly with K-12 students and the public in planetarium operations and as docents for the museum.

Events at the Planetarium

The PennWest Edinboro Planetarium offers an array of family-friendly educational programs that are out of this world.

These events take place in the evening and are open to all community members and students free of charge; however, reservations are required.

Upcoming shows

12/2 @ 7:00 pm, Star of Wonder (SOLD OUT)
Our timeless Christmas show highlights the wonder of the season and how a baby born in a manger changed all eternity.  Why do Christians celebrate Christ's birth on December 25th?  Why does Santa go south at that time?  What else do we celebrate about that time?  Those questions and more will be explored in this yearly favorite.  If signing up for this program, dust off your voice as you WILL be expected to sing along with us!

12/3 @ 7:00 pm, Star of Wonder (SOLD OUT)
Our timeless Christmas show highlights the wonder of the season and how a baby born in a manger changed all eternity.  Why do Christians celebrate Christ's birth on December 25th?  Why does Santa go south at that time?  What else do we celebrate about that time?  Those questions and more will be explored in this yearly favorite.  If signing up for this program, dust off your voice as you WILL be expected to sing along with us! 

12/9 @ 7:00 pm, Star of Wonder (SOLD OUT)
Our timeless Christmas show highlights the wonder of the season and how a baby born in a manger changed all eternity.  Why do Christians celebrate Christ's birth on December 25th?  Why does Santa go south at that time?  What else do we celebrate about that time?  Those questions and more will be explored in this yearly favorite.  If signing up for this program, dust off your voice as you WILL be expected to sing along with us! 

For reservations, please call 814-732-2493 or reserve your tickets online using our online reservation form.

Schedule a Field Trip

Dr. Hurd and PennWest Edinboro are proud to offer free educational programming to surrounding school districts.

Dr. Hurd provides engaging programs for all grade levels and special needs, sharing his enthusiasm for astronomy and love of science. In addition to educational and interactive planetarium programs, students have access to the Cooper Hall natural history museum and the pendulum area when visiting.

If you’re interested in scheduling a field trip to the PennWest Edinboro Planetarium, please contact Dr. Hurd at 814-732-2493.

Directions and Parking

The PennWest Edinboro Planetarium is located on the first floor of the Cooper Science Center, with entry through the Museum in Room 161. Cooper Science Center is located off Darrow Road.

Cooper Science Center
230 Scotland Road
Edinboro, PA 16444
Driving Directions | Campus Map

Parking is convenient and easy to find. Please follow the instructions for Event Parking.

Contact Us

Planetarium
161 Cooper Hall
230 Scotland Road
Edinboro, PA 16444
Phone: 814-732-2493

David Hurd, PhD
Professor, Director of Planetarium
169 Cooper Hall
Email: dhurd@pennwest.edu
Phone: 814-732-2495