New Laser Shows Debut Friday at TAMIU LBV Planetarium

Visit the Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium this weekend for a unique viewing experience currently available only as close as Monterrey or San Antonio. For the next two weeks, the Planetarium will have a full-dome laser projection system with educational and recreational shows, beginning this Friday, Feb. 17.

 “The Planetarium will have on a loan a full-dome laser projection system that casts red-green-blue full dome cartoon-ish moving features with background music. This was popular in the ‘70s and ‘80s and now has been updated as an educational and recreational medium,” said Dr. John Winfrey, planetarium director and assistant professor.

Some of educational shows include: “Legends of the Night Sky: Perseus & Andromeda” and “Paradigm Shifts.” Recreational shows include: “Laseropolis,” “Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon,” “Laser Zepplin,” “Laser U2,” “Pink Floyd’s The Wall,” “Laser Metallica,” and others.

“Available in the longer term will be additional educational, yet entertaining shows specifically designed for public schools,” added Dr. Winfrey.

The laser shows debut Friday, Feb. 17. “Lasermania” is scheduled at 9 p.m. and “Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon” at 10 p.m. Saturday’s shows include “U2 Laser Show” at 9 p.m. and the audience will get to pick the theme for the 10 p.m. show.

General admission for these shows is $6; tickets for TAMIU students, faculty and staff and children under 12 are $5. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted. Group rates are available for 50 or more people; advance reservations required.

For more information, contact Laura C. Jimenez at 326.2463 or e-mail planetarium@tamiu.edu

Visit tamiu.edu/coas/planetarium for show schedules and coming attractions.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu