By Kate Kocienski
Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that a Backyard Stargazing virtual meet-up will be offered to the public on Thursday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m.
Virtual visitors will journey to the depths of the universe, alongside the GRPM’s Chaffee Planetarium experts and local astronomer, James Van Prooyen, to learn how radio waves help inform astronomers about a variety of celestial objects including meteor showers, pulsars, gamma ray bursts and more.
“We’re excited to continue offering virtual programs to bring the planetarium experience directly to the homes of people who love science and space exploration,” said Dr. Stephanie Ogren, the GRPM’s Vice President of Science & Education. “We intentionally select program topics to fit the interests of all ages, and work to create engaging environments for families to participate in together.”
Backyard Stargazing Meetups are only $2 for GRPM members and $4 for the general public. One ticket link is needed per household. Capacity is limited; early registration is recommended. Tickets can be reserved or purchased at grpm.org/Calendar.
Meet-ups are in webinar style held via Zoom, so attendees will be able to see the GRPM panelists, but not each other. A brief Q & A session will follow the presentation.
The GRPM is open and welcoming visitors. Explore three floors of core exhibitions, along with Sean Kenney’s Wild Connections Made with LEGO® Bricks and Under the Arctic, open through spring 2021. Limited capacity; advance ticketing is required. For additional details about the new GRPM visitor experience, visit grpm.org/the-grpms-new-visitor-experience/. For updates, please visit grpm.org.