VSU Planetarium Presents 'Over the Moon'

Free shows on April 10 feature NASA's Artemis II mission and stargazing opportunities

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:52pm

The Valdosta State University Planetarium is hosting a series of free 'Over the Moon' presentations on April 10, showcasing the successes of NASA's Artemis II mission and providing an opportunity for guests to explore the night sky through telescopes at the VSU Observatory.

Why it matters

The 'Over the Moon' event at the VSU Planetarium offers the local community a chance to learn about the latest advancements in space exploration, particularly the Artemis II mission, and experience the wonder of the night sky through hands-on stargazing activities.

The details

The planetarium will host four presentations of 'Over the Moon' at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m., and 9 p.m. on April 10. Seating is limited to 46 guests per show, and free admission tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 5:30 p.m. The event will feature information about the Artemis II mission and insights about the surface of the Moon, as well as a preview of the spring and summer night skies. If weather permits, guests will have the opportunity to visit the VSU Observatory and view the night sky through telescopes until 10 p.m.

  • The 'Over the Moon' presentations will take place on Friday, April 10, 2026.
  • Free admission ticket distribution begins at 5:30 p.m. on April 10.

The players

VSU Planetarium

The planetarium at Valdosta State University, featuring a Digitarium Kappa digital projector that can simulate the night sky from anywhere on Earth or in the solar system.

Dr. Martha Leake

Professor of astronomy and physics at Valdosta State University, who will be hosting the 'Over the Moon' presentations.

NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, whose Artemis II mission will be featured in the 'Over the Moon' presentations.

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What they’re saying

“We are over the moon about the successes of NASA's Artemis II mission and excited about the Moon, sky, planets, asteroids, and news from distant space.”

— Dr. Martha Leake, Professor of astronomy and physics

“We will have a dark sky — the Moon rises at 3 a.m. — and planet Jupiter, bright star Sirius, constellation Orion, and others will be gracing our evening skies.”

— Dr. Martha Leake, Professor of astronomy and physics

What’s next

The VSU Planetarium's 'Over the Moon' event on April 10 is the final show of the season, but guests are invited to visit the Observatory deck on April 24 for a special Astronomy Day Open House event.

The takeaway

The 'Over the Moon' presentations at the VSU Planetarium offer a unique opportunity for the local community to engage with the latest advancements in space exploration, learn about the night sky, and experience the wonder of stargazing through hands-on activities.