Discover the universe at the second largest planetarium in Illinois, the William M. Staerkel Planetarium, located at Parkland College. Visitors can learn about the stars, planets, and more in this immersive environment.

Our public shows take place Friday and Saturday evenings year-round, along with matinées in the summer. We offer select shows in Spanish with a native-speaking presenter as well as shows with sensory-friendly settings, sensory supports, and social stories to prepare for your visit. 

Residents can book the planetarium as a venue for private shows, birthday parties, weddings, and other special events. Additionally, telescopes are available to rent for nights or weekends.

Enjoy Staerkel's lobby exhibits, which include Cosmic Blink, a mural by Billy Morrow Jackson that depicts many elements of astronomy; a "solar window" by Arthur Stern representing the Sun's path across the sky; and a rare collection of meteorites on loan from the family of James B. Kaler, U of I astronomer and science writer.


For more information about Staerkel Planetarium shows and exhibits, call the show hotline at 217/351-2446 or view our show calendar.

Check out the accessibility information for sensory-friendly shows!