Mueller Planetarium explores universe through Hubble Space Telescope

Since its launch in 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope has provided images in unprecedented detail to astronomers, and made an astonishing array of discoveries from nearby objects in the solar system to the most distant galaxies at limits of the observable universe.

Beginning Jan. 7, Mueller Planetarium at the University of Nebraska State Museum will present "Hubblevision 2," which weaves the best and most exciting Hubble images into an engaging story of cosmic exploration, bringing the wonders of the universe to audiences on Earth.

"Hubblevision 2" will be presented Saturdays and Sundays at 2 and 3 p.m. through Jan. 29. The planetarium is in Morrill Hall, 14th and U streets on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus.

Admission to Mueller Planetarium astronomy shows is $6 for adults and $4 for elementary, secondary and college students with ID. Tickets include admission to the museum and can be purchased at the museum front desk beginning at 9:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Sundays.

An added bonus to the show is a "live" section highlighting the current night sky with stars, constellations and planets, including the constellation Orion, which dominates the winter sky. Orion is also the area of interest in a new Hubble image of the Orion Nebula, to be released nationally on Jan. 10. A large print of this new image will be added to the Mueller lobby later this month. After Jan. 10, the planetarium will add a special section to the public planetarium shows focusing on this region.

The planetarium Web site at www.spacelaser.com has the full schedule of shows and additional information about astronomy and space science. A new program on weather will begin in February. No laser shows are on the schedule. For further information, contact Jack Dunn, planetarium coordinator, at (402) 472-2641 or jdunn@spacelaser.com.

CONTACT:Jack Dunn, Coordinator, Mueller Planetarium, (402) 472-2641