The Bill Heitkamp Planetarium provides the local community opportunity to observe the night sky in great detail.
The Paul Heitkamp Planetarium was founded in 1964. It was originally not part of the original construction plan of Loras's campus. It was built as a side project. A crane meant to help construct the residence halls on the west side of campus was behind its deliver schedule. Since the workers were being paid while the crane was on its way, Loras officials used the materials at hand and its contract workers to construct the planetarium. Since its completion 50 years ago, the planetarium has served the local community by providing presentations to the public as well as to private groups. Topics range from the explanation of mythological stories that coincide with ancient civilization's studies of the heavens above to the most complex topics in astrophysics. All audiences are welcome!
To arrange a private show, or to learn more about what the planetarium offers, please contact Dr. Kenneth McLaughlin at [email protected]
