Yahn Planetarium at Penn State Behrend

Experience. Learn. Share.

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.

General Public Show Information

Public shows are offered year-round at the Yahn Planetarium of Erie at Penn State Behrend. More than twenty shows are available for private groups to choose from, and programs for the general public change seasonally.

Public shows are offered Thursdays at 1:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. throughout the year except holidays, special event closings, etc. 

The Yahn Planetarium also encourages you to schedule a show for your next school or group outing. Learn more about group shows.

For additional information, contact planetarium director Jim Gavio at 814-898-7268 or jvg10@psu.edu.

Schedule

Thursdays
1:00 p.m. — "From Earth to the Universe," recommended for ages 9 to adult.
Show Description: Visit the colorful birthplaces and burial grounds of stars, and go still further out beyond the Milky Way to the unimaginable immensity of a myriad of galaxies.

Saturdays
1:00 p.m. — "From Earth to the Universe," recommended for ages 9 to adult.
2:30 p.m. — "The Sky Above Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" recommended for ages 4 to adult.
Show Description: The introduction to the sky will show viewers the Sun, Moon, and stars. Also, viewers will learn about a couple popular constellations.

*All shows are followed by a live sky talk presented by planetarium director, Jim Gavio.*

***The Yahn Planetarium will be closed on Thursday, February 14, 2019, and Saturday, February 16, 2019, due to special, private events.***

Admission Prices

• Adults — $5
• Children, 12 and under — $3
• All Penn State students, faculty, and staff receive free admission with Penn State id+ Card.