SkyDome, a mobile planetarium, is set to land in Downtown Paris, offering a captivating journey through the cosmos. Scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 29 and 30, the 36-foot wide, 15-foot tall inflatable planetarium will be stationed in the former Paris High School Gymnasium at 215 East Houston Street.
Designed to enchant both young and old aspiring astronomers, the immersive experience promises to transport visitors on virtual tours through our solar system.
Cheri Bedford, City of Paris Main Street Project Coordinator, explained the genesis of the idea: “The idea came up when some of us were discussing how to help our citizens get the most out of the total solar eclipse in April. I thought finding a large indoor location downtown to house the planetarium might be a challenge, but Harrison, Walker, and Harper offered the use of the historic PHS gym one block north of Lamar Avenue.”
Each 45-minute presentation accommodates 80 viewers, guiding them through a dazzling array of stars in the Northern Hemisphere, mirroring the night sky on the day of the presentation. Showtimes are available between 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm on Friday, March 29, and from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturday, March 30. Reservations are necessary and can be made via the mobile planetarium banner on www.ParisTexas.gov/eclipse or by calling 903-784-9308.
Although the City of Paris Main Street Program's grant application to bring the planetarium to Paris was unsuccessful, downtown businesses Credit Union of Texas and Bee Sweet Paris Gifts have stepped up to cover the expenses, ensuring all showtimes remain free for attendees.
Additionally, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Friday, the City of Paris Parks and Recreation Division will host a free moon rock painting event for children, complementing the planetarium experience. Rotary Club of Paris United members and friends will also be on hand at each showtime, offering Sun Chips, Moon Pies, and Solar Punch for attendees to enjoy.
