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Ritter Planetarium and Brooks Observatory

Black Holes Grid Cushing blue Ritter Ritter Building Observatory Domes Brooks Observatory and the Moon
Located on the main campus of The University of Toledo, the Ritter Planetarium is your gateway to the Universe. Outfitted with a state-of-the-art digital projector and 5.1 surround sound, the Ritter Planetarium is capable of transporting you though space and time to view the wonders of the Universe. We offer public programs on the weekends, K-12 school programs, Scout programs, private parties and birthday parties by reservation.
CURRENT PUBLIC PROGRAMS 
 

5000 Eyes

Chasin5000 Eyes:  Mapping the Universe with DESI

Friday evenings at 7:30 PM in October

5000 Eyes: Mapping the Universe with DESI is a fulldome film about the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) which is creating the most detailed map of our nearby universe using a unique instrument which can measure the spectra of many galaxies at once. Experience the largest structures in the universe as never seen before by flying through a portion of DESI's initial data. Dive into modern cosmology, plus the scientific background and motivation for building a large map of galaxies. And, take a trip to Kitt Peak to see footage of the telescope in action while getting to know the amazing people from all over the world making this research possible.

 

Spooky Space

Spooky Space
(Child focused)

Saturday afternoons at 1:00 PM in September

Explore the sky and outer space with a Halloween twist. Meet the space counterparts to spooky characters like ghosts, vampires, and witches. Spooky Space is a great Halloween show for ages 6 and up.

 

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

We have additional public programs throughout the year and you can find a schedule for them here.

 

ParkUToledo

Parking Registration

Parking for public shows is free in lot 1N, but you must register your car.  You can do so here before you arrive or remember your license plate to register in the lobby before the program.  Note:  Your license plate must visible from the aisle.  Please see our Parking and Directions page for more details.

 


Programs start promptly at the time indicated and therefore late admission is not allowed. Admission to all public programs is $8 for adults and $6 for children, seniors and UToledo community members. All shows are first-come, first-served reservations and advanced ticket purchases are not available. Drinks and food are not allowed in the dome.

Public ProgramsPublic Programs

Ritter Planetarium offers public programs every Friday during the year and on Saturday during the academic year. View our current schedule.

School ProgramsSchool Programs

Ritter Planetarium offers a variety of programs for all age groups and grades. Learn more and schedule your visit!

Scout ShowsScout Programs

Throughout the year, Ritter Planetarium offers specialized programs for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts and Brownies. Learn more and see the latest schedule.

Last Updated: 10/2/26