Friends of Ritter Planetarium
Our Mission
To provide educational and entertaining activities for the dissemination of material
related to astronomy, the sky, and
the place of our Earth in the Universe, and to provide opportunities for the public
to view celestial phenomena with medium-sized telescopes.
A pristine view of the night sky is a rare and exhilarating experience. Such views have inspired much of mythology, philosophy, poetry, and art. Careful observation of the cycles and movements of the heavens sparked the first flames of science. An understanding of the sky helped humanity to survive and flourish throughout much of our existence.
Sadly, we have become detached from our connection with the sky. City lights and new technologies have hampered our awareness of a precious resource -- the night sky. Ritter Planetarium-Brooks Observatory is a place where people can (re)discover excitement under the stars! Standing at the crossroads of science, mythology, poetry, philosophy, and art, the planetarium is a local cultural and educational treasure.
Bybecoming a Friend of Ritter Planetarium and Brooks Observatory, you will continue and advance our 40-year tradition of excellence in science education and public service.
You can become a Friend by making a contribution to the Ritter Planetarium Progress
Fund. Your contribution will help to purchase new equipment and
give Ritter the ability to produce and present more original programming. In this
way, you will help us to grow, maintain the vitality of our
activities, and remain a valued resource for the community. To make a contribution,
please review the membership information below and then click
here. This link will take you to the secure gift web page of The University of Toledo Foundation.
In the
box on that page labeled, "Other designation," please type "Ritter Planetarium Progress
Fund."
Membership Levels and Benefits
- Friend- $35/year ($23 tax deductable) Friends receive four free guest passes to any public program and invitations to members-only special events for the whole family.
- Family- $60/year ($36 tax deductable) Family members receive unlimited admission to all public programs, and invitations to members-only special events for the whole family.
- Associate- $125/year ($81 tax deductable) Associates receive all the benefits of a Family membership, plus a subscription to Astronomy Magazine.
- Patron- $500/year ($406 tax deductable) Patrons receive all the benefits of an Associate plus a free private program for up to 90 people.
- Benefactor- $1000/year ($856 tax deductable) Benefactors receive all the benefits of a Patron, plus a private observing session with the Ritter One Meter Telescope. Benefactors may also be invited to serve on the Advisory Committee.
*Tax disclaimer: Gifts are tax deductable to the extent allowed by law.
Please click here to visit the University of Toledo Foundation's secure on-line gift site.