For years, it’s been the place where thousands of young people and adults come to learn about the universe and worlds beyond our reach.
The Erie Planetarium served as a resource for the Erie community for more than fifty years, and it continues today as the Yahn Planetarium, now a part of Penn State Behrend. The planetarium is located in the School of Science complex on the Behrend campus.
NEW: Virtual Planetarium Visits
You can now request a group virtual visit to the Yahn Planetarium. Your visit could include current events in astronomy and space science, a view of the current night sky, and more. Please submit your virtual visit request online.
Star Talks
April 2021
Learn about the night sky for April 2021 in Erie, Pennsylvania, from Jim Gavio, Yahn Planetarium director. In addition to discussing constellations, Jim also talks about the Mars helicopter that will be the first ever to fly on another planet.
Watch previous Star Talks.
The Virtual Planetarium
Jim Gavio, Yahn Planetarium director, explains the significance of SpaceX’s Demo-2 launch. SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule carried two NASA astronauts to the International Space Station and marked the return of human spaceflight for the United States, when it launched in May 2020.
Astronomy at Home
Looking for space-related activities to do at home while the Yahn Planetarium is closed? We have you covered.
- Find the International Space Station
Find out when you can spot the International Space Station from your own backyard right here in the local Erie area. - NASA at Home
Check out this great NASA website for some hands-on activities for families and up-to-date information about NASA's bold new plans.
General Public Show Information
The Yahn Planetarium is closed at this time. An update will be posted when planetarium shows resume.
For additional information, contact planetarium director Jim Gavio at 814-898-7268 or [email protected].