For the City-Times

Take a vacation to the stars this summer at the Allen F. Blocher Planetarium at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Two programs will be offered Monday and Wednesday evenings through July 31 at 8 p.m. Both shows are open to the public, free of charge.

“Cosmic Colors” will be shown on Mondays, June 17 and 24, and Wednesdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31. The show takes viewers on a journey across the electromagnetic spectrum to discover why the sky is blue, how we see colors and how X-rays and infrared radiation works.

“The Endless Horizon” will be shown on Wednesdays, June 19 and 26, and Mondays, July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. The show, narrated by actor Patrick Stewart of “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” explores historic innovations in science and technology, such as telescopes and satellites, and how they’ve advanced our views of the solar system and universe.

The planetarium doors open 20 minutes before the scheduled programs. Planetarium programs appeal to all age groups. Seating is first come, first served for up to 70 people.

Groups of 15 or more may schedule a special showing of any planetarium program by calling Randy Olson at 715-346-2208. The cost is $15 per group for these presentations.

The planetarium is located on the second floor of the Science Building at the corner of Reserve Street and Fourth Avenue. Parking is available in Lot X near the building entrance, and is free in all university lots after 7 p.m.

The planetarium will close August 1 and resume programming in mid-September. The Arthur J. Pejsa Observatory is closed during the summer months and public programs also resume in mid-September. Learn more at www.uwsp.edu/physastr.