Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium - White building with golden dome at dusk
1 / 10

Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium

4.6
·11 reviews·San Angelo, United States

An intimate planetarium offering captivating shows on stars, planets, and science, providing an affordable and educational experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More showtimes available

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium - White building with golden dome at dusk

Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium

Best Time

Weekends

More showtimes available

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An intimate planetarium offering captivating shows on stars, planets, and science, providing an affordable and educational experience.

4.6
(11 reviews)

"Enjoyed the shows-very interesting and mind boggling! All the staff is friendly and seem to enjoy their duties."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Check Show Schedules

Always check the planetarium's schedule beforehand to ensure you catch the shows you're most interested in.

💰 Affordable Experience

Enjoy an enriching and mind-boggling experience at a great price. Excellent value for the educational content.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stellar Shows

Stellar Shows

Experience captivating journeys through constellations, planets, and the cosmos. Special seasonal shows add extra magic.

Educational Content

Educational Content

Learn about the human nervous system and eye care, alongside fascinating astronomical topics. Great for curious minds.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Check Showtimes in Advance

Planetarium shows vary, so check the schedule before you go to catch the most interesting presentations. Some shows are sponsored, so be aware of that.

Support Your Local Planetarium

This is a small, community-focused planetarium. Visiting and supporting it helps keep these educational experiences available for everyone.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More showtimes available
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique seasonal programming
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎟️ Check Show Schedules

Always check the planetarium's schedule beforehand to ensure you catch the shows you're most interested in.

💰 Affordable Experience

Enjoy an enriching and mind-boggling experience at a great price. Excellent value for the educational content.

🌟 Support ASU

Come out and support the university's planetarium. Your attendance helps keep these educational events running.

No content available

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Check Show Schedules

Always check the planetarium's schedule beforehand to ensure you catch the shows you're most interested in.

💰 Affordable Experience

Enjoy an enriching and mind-boggling experience at a great price. Excellent value for the educational content.

🌟 Support ASU

Come out and support the university's planetarium. Your attendance helps keep these educational events running.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(11 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium to be an affordable and enriching experience, particularly enjoying the captivating shows about space and science. The friendly staff contribute to a positive atmosphere, though some note the facility is quite small. It's a valued community resource for educational entertainment.

"Went several months ago before COVID and the first round of closures happened. It was such a nice experience! Especially considering the price.

There were two shows. Were it not for the first showing being about the human nervous system & the importance of eye care (sponsorship, I assume? $) this would have 5 stars. The entire second show was amazing."

Desiree B

"I really enjoy the shows-very interesting and mind boggling! All the staff is friendly and seem to enjoy their duties. Thanks, again, for providing these events."

Carolyn McGehee

"Excellent show... come out every week and support ASU."

Mary

What People Like

Affordable price
Interesting shows
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Very small facility

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The planetarium is located at Arkansas State University. Check the university's campus map for the most direct route to the building housing the planetarium. Parking information for visitors may be available on the ASU website.

Information on public transportation options to Arkansas State University would need to be checked with local transit authorities. It's best to consult the university's visitor information for any specific transit recommendations.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reviews suggest the planetarium offers a nice experience considering the price, indicating it's quite affordable. It's recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for current ticket prices.

While not explicitly stated, it's often wise to book tickets in advance for planetarium shows, especially if you're visiting during peak times or for special events. Check their website for booking options.

Operating hours are typically tied to showtimes. It's essential to check the planetarium's official schedule for specific dates and times of shows, as they can vary.

🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience

The planetarium offers a variety of shows, including astronomical presentations about stars, constellations, and planets. Some shows may be educational on other topics, like the human nervous system, and special seasonal shows are also featured.

Yes, the shows are described as interesting and mind-boggling, making them suitable for children and adults alike. The educational content can be particularly engaging for younger audiences.

Based on reviews, it's described as a 'very small' facility, primarily built to serve the university's needs. This suggests an intimate viewing experience.

The primary experience at the Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium revolves around its shows. While specific interactive exhibits aren't mentioned, the shows themselves are designed to be engaging and educational.

📸 📸 Photography

Typically, photography and videography are restricted during planetarium shows to avoid distracting from the experience and for copyright reasons. It's best to check for any posted signage or ask staff upon arrival.

While the interior is focused on the shows, the exterior of the planetarium or the Arkansas State University campus itself might offer good photo opportunities. Look for architectural details or scenic campus spots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium offers an engaging and educational experience that's great for families. The shows are described as 'interesting and mind boggling',Reddit making them captivating for children and adults alike. While the planetarium is small, this can create a more intimate and focused viewing experience for younger audiences. It's a fantastic way to spark curiosity about space and science in a fun, accessible environment.

Consider checking the show schedule in advance to select presentations that might be particularly appealing to your children's age group. The affordable pricing also makes it a budget-friendly outing for families looking for enriching activities. Supporting the planetarium is a way to contribute to educational resources within the community.

🎓 Students & Educators

As a facility of Arkansas State University, the Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium is an excellent resource for students and educators. The shows provide supplementary learning opportunities, covering topics from astronomy to biology.Reddit It's a great place for students to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts in a visually stimulating way. Educators might find it a valuable field trip destination or a source of inspiration for classroom lessons.

The affordability of the planetarium makes it an accessible option for students on a budget. The friendly staff and the unique nature of the shows offer a refreshing break from traditional academic settings. Supporting the planetarium is a direct way to invest in educational infrastructure within the university.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Shows

The Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium offers a curated selection of shows designed to educate and awe its audience. While some shows focus on the wonders of the cosmos, featuring stars, constellations, and planets, others delve into different scientific realms, such as the human nervous system and eye care. This variety ensures there's something to pique the interest of diverse visitors. It's important to note that some shows might be sponsored, which can influence their content, as one reviewer mentioned regarding a show on eye care.Reddit

Visitors consistently praise the quality and engagement of the presentations, describing them as 'interesting and mind boggling'.Reddit The staff are also frequently commended for being friendly and enjoying their roles, contributing to a positive overall experience. For those looking to support educational initiatives, attending a show is a direct way to support ASU and its commitment to science outreach.Reddit

Given that the planetarium is described as 'very small',Reddit the viewing experience is likely to be intimate. This can enhance the immersive quality of the shows, making it feel like a personal journey through space or a scientific concept. Always check the showtimes in advance, as the schedule can vary and special shows are offered throughout the year.

A Community Gem

The Elta Joyce Murphey Planetarium is more than just a place to watch shows; it's a valuable community asset, particularly for Arkansas State University. Reviews highlight the affordability of the experience, making it an accessible educational outing for many.Reddit This low cost, combined with the quality of the presentations, makes it a highly recommended activity for those seeking enriching entertainment without a hefty price tag.

Travelers often express a desire to support ASU by attending these events, recognizing the importance of such facilities for the university and the wider community.Reddit The friendly staff and their apparent enjoyment of their duties further contribute to the welcoming atmosphere. It’s this blend of educational value, affordability, and community spirit that makes the planetarium a noteworthy destination.

While it may be a smaller venue, its impact is significant. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the universe and scientific concepts in an engaging way. Planning your visit around specific showtimes is key to maximizing your experience at this cherished local institution.

You may also like