MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – After years of planning and months of construction, the Shiras Planetarium inside Marquette Senior High School has officially completed its major renovation. And now, the community is being invited to help shape its future.
The stars are shining bright at the Shiras Planetarium, this time with brand new, world-renowned Zeiss projection technology, upgraded seating, better lighting, and a new sound system. It’s the facility’s most significant transformation in its 60-year history.
“This is a unique system that has full dome projection. And what makes this planetarium unique is the true black that we can achieve with these new projectors. It just creates a viewing experience like none other,” said Shiras Planetarium board member Eric Smith.
Now that construction is complete, the team is shifting to the next phase: training, content creation, and planning new events. Their top priority remains serving students through daytime field trips and classroom visits, which has always been the core mission of the planetarium since it opened.
“When we talk about an educational experience, the students that are in the Upper Peninsula now have access to a learning tool that’s like no other,” exclaimed Smith.
Over time, visitors can expect a return of live presentations, Night Sky Tours, and interactive community programs.
“There aren’t many of them out there of this particular system. I mean, I believe we’re one of only three in the country,” said Shiras Planetarium Technical Director, Jacob Phillips.
Alongside the relaunch, The Friends of Shiras Planetarium is rolling out a brand new fundraising campaign, “Adopt a Shiras Star”. The goal is to help close out the planetarium’s remaining balance of the $1 million renovation effort, which currently stands at $235,000.
“Then it registers it here at the Shiras Planetarium, and no one else making a gift can have that particular constellation or star,” explained Smith.
To learn more about the “Adopt a Shiras Star” program and hours of operation, please visit their website, https://friendsofshirasplanetarium.org/
