Yahn Planetarium at Penn State Behrend

Yahn Planetarium, part of the School of Science complex at Penn State Behrend, welcomes stargazers of all ages to learn about the universe and worlds beyond our reach. The planetarium continues the legacy of the Erie Planetarium, which served the Erie community for more than fifty years.

Yahn Planetarium entrance and display area

Public Show Information

Public shows are on Thursdays and Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. (children’s program) and 11:30 a.m. (general audience). Reservations are not required.

Admission fees are $5 for adults; $3 for children age 12 and under; and free for Penn State employees, Penn State students, and children under age 2. 

Closed Dates:

  • Thursdays: June 19, June 26, July 17, and July 24
  • Saturday, June 21

School and group programs are available.

Planetarium dome poster showing cartoon starfish and lobster in an underwater scene with a sunken ship and coral, promoting “Stars to Starfish Jr.”

Current Show: Children’s Program

Stars to Starfish – Join Starry the Starfish and Red the Lobster as they compare the exploration of our universe with the exploration of Earth’s oceans. Dive into this imaginative journey that links outer space to the deep sea. For ages 4 and up.

Planetarium dome poster for The Dark Matter Mystery with a glowing galaxy and the quote, “We know it exists. But we have no idea what it is made of.”

Current Show: General Audience

The Dark Matter Mystery – Join scientists on their hunt for dark matter with experiments in space and deep underground. Will they be able to solve one of the biggest mysteries in the universe? For ages 12 and up.

A group of children plays with a Mars rover model at Yahn Planetarium.

Group Visits and Other Programs

Yahn Planetarium offers out-of-this-world experiences for groups, from schools to scouts. Learn how to schedule your field trip and see what programs are available. You can also find activities that you can do at home.