Downing Planetarium

The Downing Planetarium is located on the campus of California State University, Fresno. Visitors can typically find parking in designated campus lots. Check the Fresno State parking website for current rates and locations. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for campus tours.

Fresno Area Express (FAX) bus routes serve the California State University, Fresno campus. You can check the FAX website for routes and schedules that stop near the university. This can be a convenient option if you're traveling without a car.

Parking is available in various lots on the Fresno State campus. Fees may apply, and it's advisable to check the university's parking services for the most up-to-date information on visitor parking and rates. Some events might have specific parking arrangements.

Ticket prices are very affordable: Adults are $5.00, Seniors are $4.00, and Children/Students are $3.00. This makes it an accessible outing for everyone.

The planetarium is generally open to the public one weekend per month, typically on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons. It's crucial to check their official schedule for specific dates and showtimes.

While some tickets might be available at the door, it's highly recommended to purchase them in advance, as popular shows can sell out quickly. The website usually provides information on when tickets go on sale.

Yes, discounted rates are available for seniors and children/students. This makes it an even more budget-friendly option for families and older visitors.

The planetarium features a 30-foot hemispherical dome with seating for 73 people. This intimate setting ensures a great view for everyone in the audience.

They offer a variety of educational shows about space, stars, and planets, as well as special immersive movie experiences like Pink Floyd's 'Dark Side of the Moon'. There are also shows specifically designed for younger children.

Absolutely! After many shows, you can often go outside to their observatory for telescope viewing of planets like Jupiter and its moons, and learn about constellations with laser pointers.

Yes, it's very kid-friendly! Children often love the immersive shows and learning about space. They even have specific shows tailored for younger audiences.+1

The Minolta MS-10 projector is a powerful tool that can fill the entire dome with stars and immersive movies, creating a realistic and captivating celestial experience for the audience.+1

Comfortable clothing is recommended. Some visitors have noted that the planetarium can get warm, especially during crowded events, so dressing in layers might be a good idea.

Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during the shows to avoid disturbing other audience members and to protect the immersive experience. However, you might be able to take photos in the lobby or gift shop areas. It's best to check with staff on-site.

The exterior of the planetarium building can be a good spot for photos, especially with the campus setting. The gift shop might also offer some unique souvenirs for a quick snap. The real magic is the experience inside, which is best enjoyed without a camera.

Since flash photography is usually prohibited during shows, focus on capturing the excitement before or after the show. If you're visiting for an eclipse event, remember to use proper solar viewing glasses for safe observation and photography.