Marston Exploration Theater ASU
Immerse yourself in the cosmos at ASU's Marston Exploration Theater, featuring stunning 3D planetarium shows and fascinating space exploration exhibit...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Doors open early for shows
Marston Exploration Theater ASU
Best Time
Doors open early for shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in the cosmos at ASU's Marston Exploration Theater, featuring stunning 3D planetarium shows and fascinating space exploration exhibits.
"The 3D planetarium makes you really ponder the vastness of the universe & earth's insignificant existence."
🎯 Arrive Early for Shows
Doors open at noon for 1 PM shows. Line up around 12:50 PM to secure a good seat!
🚀 Explore Second Floor Exhibits
Don't miss the real space rocks and fascinating science equipment on the second floor.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
3D Planetarium Shows
Marston 3D Theater
Experience mind-blowing journeys through the cosmos, from our solar system to distant exoplanets.
Mars Rover Mock-up
Main Lobby
See a full-size replica of a Mars Rover, larger than you might expect, a testament to space exploration.
Meteorite Exhibits
Second Floor
Get up close with real space rocks, including some impressively large meteorites.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Marston Exploration Theater
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Best Times
Insider Tips
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What building is this?
🎯 Arrive Early for Shows
Doors open at noon for 1 PM shows. Line up around 12:50 PM to secure a good seat!
🚀 Explore Second Floor Exhibits
Don't miss the real space rocks and fascinating science equipment on the second floor.
🥤 Snack Outside
Vending machines available, but food/drink only allowed outside the theater.
🤓 Engage with Students
The young researchers and presenters are incredibly knowledgeable and engaging. Ask questions!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Shows
Doors open at noon for 1 PM shows. Line up around 12:50 PM to secure a good seat!
🚀 Explore Second Floor Exhibits
Don't miss the real space rocks and fascinating science equipment on the second floor.
🥤 Snack Outside
Vending machines available, but food/drink only allowed outside the theater.
🤓 Engage with Students
The young researchers and presenters are incredibly knowledgeable and engaging. Ask questions!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marston Exploration Theater for its engaging 3D planetarium shows and impressive exhibits, particularly the Mars Rover mock-up and meteorite collection. The knowledgeable and enthusiastic ASU student presenters are a standout feature, making complex science accessible and inspiring. While the experience is highly recommended, some may find the showtimes rigid and food options limited to vending machines outside the theater.
"Shout-outs to the research students, including Om, Madison, [K]assandra, Jesse; Ellie; the geology experts, the astrophysics experts, the spacecraft engineering experts, the 3D-Planetarium experts at the controls (LIVE)... loved this extensive science and deep dives into the mysteries of the physical Universe around us!
As of this writing, this Local Guide has seen about 3-4 shows here at the Marston 3D Theater! Including "ASU Explores the Solar System" and "Exoplanets" (planets in other star systems) and they held one all about "Light" and the ways we can learn about planets through their light emissions.
This is a fantastic facility, where real science is done and real space missions [their instruments] are virtually commanded by the operations team. You can peer into the "fishbowl" and see the computers that reach out to contact TES and Mini-TES and THEMIS. You can see actual mock-ups of a Mars Rover (full size larger than U think!) and a spacecraft suspended above! A REAL triceratops head (fossilized!) A real map of the Martian "aerography" including Olympus Mons. Little miniatures of the Apollo Mission rockets, spacecraft, and astronauts!
There are vending machines here, so you can grab a soda or an iced coffee, and some cookies or snacks. There is, however, no food or drink or laser pointers allowed in the theater, so snack your snacks at the tables outside the front doors. There are plenty of receptacles available and it's shady-time at/before noon when the doors will open. (VERY tall building ISTB4!)
There are great restroom facilities (family restroom, accessible, wheelchair sized) and the floor is a gorgeous parquet with embedded minerals (and I know there's a story behind that floor's construction). There is so much to see and do here.
If you have a ticket to a 3D show, it starts 1pm sharp, but the facility opens doors at noon, and so you may line-up around 12:50. The facility remains open until 2pm-ish. Don't miss the second floor meteorite exhibits with REAL SPACE ROCKS. Including some BIG ONES. And some rather small ones too. There are more "fishbowls" on that second floor where you'll see the really exciting science equipment, and sometimes a research person working on it!
Love you, ASU! FEAR THE FORK! Go Psyche, Go Osiris-APEX! GO THEMIS!!!"
Robert Earl
"I attended my 3rd event here yesterday, and sought out a place to leave a review because I have just been so impressed by the entire operation each time. Yesterday's presentation on exoplanet exploration included some pretty heady concepts, but the students running the show manage to keep everyone engaged, even with the more complicated subject matter. That 3D planetarium makes you really ponder in the vastness of the universe & the earth's relatively insignificant existence. What might be the most humbling of all however, are the 19-20 year old students who are 10x as smart as I am running the whole operation. Ellie, the presenter, was especially great, and you just can't help but be impressed by these kids and what they are studying. I just hope the funding they need from the NSF & similar organizations doesn't get cut, and the importance of their work continues to be valued. Check it out."
Jake Hansen
"The experience was incredible, we watched time and distance space exploration and it blew my mind"
ALI SENit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marston Exploration Theater is located in the ISTB4 building on the ASU Tempe campus. Parking is available in nearby garages, and the campus is accessible via public transportation, including light rail.
Yes, several parking garages are available on the ASU Tempe campus, such as the Fulton Center Garage and the Apache Structure. Check ASU Parking and Transit for current rates and availability.
Absolutely! The ASU Metro Light Rail station is conveniently located near the Tempe campus, making it an easy way to reach the theater.
Yes, the facility has great restroom facilities, including accessible and wheelchair-sized options, and the building is generally accessible.
The Marston Exploration Theater is a prominent feature within the ISTB4 building. Look for signage directing you to the 3D Planetarium and exhibits upon entering.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required for the 3D shows. The facility opens its doors at noon for 1 PM shows, so plan to arrive early.
The facility typically opens its doors at noon and shows start promptly at 1 PM. It generally remains open until around 2 PM-ish.
While specific pricing isn't always listed, reviews suggest attending events and shows. It's best to check the official ASU event listings or contact them directly for the most current ticket information.
Information on advance ticket purchases is not readily available. It's recommended to check the ASU event calendar or arrive early on the day of the show.
While the main theater shows may require tickets, the second floor often features meteorite exhibits and other displays that are accessible to explore.
🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience
The theater hosts immersive 3D planetarium shows covering topics like solar system exploration, exoplanets, and the science of light.
You can see a full-size Mars Rover mock-up, spacecraft models, a real triceratops head fossil, Martian maps, and an impressive collection of real meteorites on the second floor.
Yes, attendees consistently praise the intelligence and engagement of the ASU students who run the shows and exhibits, often highlighting their deep understanding of complex scientific topics.
Yes, the immersive shows and engaging exhibits are great for children and families interested in space and science.
The 'fishbowls' refer to viewing areas where you can observe the actual computers and equipment used for real science missions and research, offering a behind-the-scenes look at space exploration technology.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, vending machines are available on-site offering sodas, iced coffee, cookies, and snacks.
No, food and drinks are not allowed inside the theater itself. You'll need to consume them at the tables located outside the front doors.
As part of the ASU Tempe campus, there are numerous dining options available within walking distance or a short drive from the ISTB4 building.
The vending machines typically offer a selection of common snacks like cookies and beverages such as sodas and iced coffee.
While vending machines are present, dedicated cafes or restaurants within the ISTB4 building are not explicitly mentioned. It's best to explore other campus dining options for full meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While general exhibits might be fine, flash photography and recording are typically prohibited inside the 3D theater during shows to avoid disrupting the experience.
The Mars Rover mock-up in the lobby and the impressive meteorite displays on the second floor offer great photo opportunities. The exterior of the ISTB4 building can also be photogenic.
Yes, the Mars Rover mock-up is a popular spot for photos, and visitors are generally encouraged to capture images of this impressive exhibit.
It's advisable to check with the venue staff regarding any restrictions on professional equipment or tripods, especially during showtimes or busy periods.
You can capture images of space exploration artifacts, scientific equipment, impressive geological specimens, and the immersive planetarium dome.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include arriving early for shows to get good seats and utilizing the family restroom facilities. While food isn't allowed in the theater, there are outdoor areas for snacks. The engaging student presenters are adept at keeping younger audiences interested, making it an educational and enjoyable outing for all.
🚀 Space Enthusiasts & Science Buffs
Don't miss the extensive meteorite collection and the detailed Martian geography displays. The full-scale Mars Rover replica is a significant highlight, providing a tangible connection to planetary exploration. This venue offers a rich, educational experience that goes beyond typical museum exhibits.
🎓 Students & Lifelong Learners
It's a great place to see real scientific equipment in action and understand the practical applications of academic study. The experience can spark curiosity and deepen understanding, making it a valuable outing for anyone interested in STEM fields.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Immersive 3D Planetarium Experience
What sets these shows apart is that they are often run by ASU students who are deeply involved in astrophysics and related fields. Their passion and knowledge shine through, as they expertly navigate complex subject matter, keeping audiences engaged and informed. This hands-on involvement by students ensures a dynamic and up-to-date presentation of scientific knowledge, offering a unique educational opportunity.
Visitors should note that shows begin precisely at 1 PM, and the doors open at noon. It's recommended to arrive by 12:50 PM to ensure you get a good seat for the presentation. While the theater itself is for the show, remember that food and drinks are not permitted inside and should be enjoyed outside.
Beyond the Stars: Fascinating Exhibits
On the second floor, visitors can encounter real space rocks – a collection of meteorites that provide a direct connection to celestial bodies. These exhibits are often described as incredibly impressive, with some meteorites being quite substantial. Alongside these cosmic artifacts, you'll find other intriguing displays, including a real fossilized triceratops head and detailed maps of Martian geography, like Olympus Mons.
The 'fishbowl' viewing areas are another unique aspect, allowing a glimpse into the operational side of space science. Here, you can see the computers and equipment used by research teams and operations teams to command space missions. This behind-the-scenes look at active scientific endeavors adds a layer of authenticity and excitement to the visitor experience.
The Role of ASU Students
Many visitors express awe at the students' expertise, noting that they are often '10x as smart' as the average attendee. This student-led approach not only provides a dynamic and current educational experience but also serves as an inspiring testament to the cutting-edge research happening at ASU. The students' passion for their fields, whether it's astrophysics, geology, or spacecraft engineering, is palpable and contributes significantly to the theater's appeal.
There's a strong sentiment among visitors that the work these students are doing is vital and deserves continued support from organizations like the NSF. Experiencing their dedication firsthand makes the visit not just educational, but also a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in future scientific endeavors.
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