The EYE
Welcome to The Eye Planetarium at the Science Museum of Western Virginia–Roanoke’s premiere planetarium.
Here, with a full dome, theater, and state-of-the-art creative technologies, art and science are in constant interplay to enrich experiences both educational and entertaining.
Under the dome, the mysteries of the cosmos come alive–from microorganisms to magnetic fields, from sound waves to light spectrums–all becomes visible to the naked eye.
Our planetarium offers a variety of shows and interactive experiences, including breathtaking astronomical journeys, immersive full-dome films, educational programs tailored to all ages, and special events and series. Our state-of-the-art technology ensures each visit is unique, making The Eye a must-visit destination for families, educators, and anyone curious about the universe.
From Past to Present
The Science Museum of Western Virginia’s Eye Planetarium reopened in February 2024 following a ten-year development and renovation project. The redefined planetarium is a venue unlike any other on the east coast, where innovative advances in technology intersect with ultramodern visual arts.
The Eye offers something for everyone with daily public shows, special events, premiere events, and private rentals. With a dual projection system capable of rendering vivid imagery and an immersive full dome screen, the space is designed to transform any given moment into an experience.
Schedule
Stay for a show at The Eye Planetarium, open Tuesday through Sunday. During the month of January, the Eye offers two public daily shows Monday through Saturday at 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM, and one show on Sunday at 3:30 PM with the exception of closures and special events.
Admission to standard public daily shows can be obtained through purchase of an Ultimate ticket. Ultimate tickets grant access to the full museum, the Eye, and one Parakeet Garden feeding time. Ultimate members can access an unlimited number of public daily shows per month.
Tickets for premiere and special event content will be available in advance. Be sure to visit our social media and website for latest show and event schedules, as our lineup is always evolving with new and exciting experiences.
*If the Eye is closed for a private event, advance notice will be posted on our website and social media. Please see our “Events” page under the “Visit” tab to check the latest calendar for closures and events. Ultimate ticket holders visiting during these events can receive an Eye pass for free entry on a return date.
Additionally, The Eye warmly welcomes school groups every Tuesday to Friday morning. Schools and private groups interested in exploring the universe with us can arrange their exclusive experience by contacting [email protected]. Prepare for an astronomical adventure at The Eye.
Day
Time
Tuesday – Saturday
Sunday
11:30 AM
3:30 PM
3:30 PM
Tickets
Purchase an Ultimate ticket for a visit to the museum, which includes access to daily Eye shows and one (1) Parakeet Garden feeding time.
Upcoming Special & Premiere Event Tickets
The Eye special events can typically be expected to be held on Friday evenings at 6 PM or later. Special events are full dome experiences with works created in-house by The Eye creative team. Advanced ticket purchases can be made below to reserve a seat. Premiere content features full dome experiences in partnership with local artists, researchers, organizations, and groups. Updates regarding premiere events will be provided well in advance to ensure your access.
Roanoque Baroque Orchestra + The Eye Presents:
In Gardens & Palaces with the Sons of JS Bach & Handel
Join us for an inaugural live performance event at The Eye! The Roanoque Baroque Orchestra will be performing live for a two-day premiere event, featuring compositions by the sons of JS Bach and Handel, spectacular dome visuals, and light fare.
With four performance times (each with their own tickets) and two days of congregation and chords, don’t miss your chance to attend this remarkably singular event!
For each performance, we are offering two ticket tiers: Palace Tier (rows A – C) for $50.00 per seat; Garden Tier General Admission seats (rows D – F) are available for a donation amount of your choosing.
February 22nd | 6:30 - 9:00 PM
7:00 PM Performance
8:00 PM Performance
February 23rd | 2:30 - 5:00 PM
3:00 PM Performance
4:00 PM Performance
"In Places Where Black Skin Grows," a live performance of Matthew Mosley's Second Album
Witness Matthew Mosley’s second album “In Places Where Black Skin Grows” brought to life, only at The Eye! Featuring live performance, poetry, prose, music, and storytelling, as well as immersive visuals and creative technology, you won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of Black history.
In a performance that traverses time, place, genre, and speaker, follow the narrative threads of various experiences and immerse yourself in these rich stories.
There are two opportunities to attend this event: Friday, March 7, 2025 at 7 PM, and Sunday, March 9, 2025 at 6 PM. Each performance offers three seating tiers ($20 – $30).
Coming Soon...
Special Event: SIGHT + SOUND February Installation (To Be Announced)
Past Events
