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 Wednesday through Sunday. The Eye offers two public daily shows Wednesday through Friday at 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM, three daily shows on Saturday at 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 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 a museum ticket.
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.
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 scheduler@smwv.org. Prepare for an astronomical adventure at The Eye.
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.
Join us for a final installation of The Eye‘s SIGHT + SOUND series as you know it…
SIGHT + SOUND series
presents: DREAMS
October 9, 2026 | 6 PM - 8 PM | Ages 16+
Childcare Add-On Option Available Below!
Click Below to Purchase Your Ticket!
Member tickets 40% off. Must show proof of membership upon arrival.
Click Below for Childcare Add-On Registration!
Our Education Department is excited to offer a fun alternative to the standard babysitter experience! Please register your child at the link below to begin the registration process.
Parents Night Out:
Robots & Tech
September 25, 2026
5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Our Parents Night Out program returns on September 25, 2026.
Register your child for an evening of hands-on fun!
During this event, your child will enjoy:
- Pizza & Water
- Movie Viewing in The Eye Planetarium
- Games & Interactives
- Science & Crafts
Now Showing...
The Eye creative team presents
COSMIC CLOUDS: THE NEBULAE
Runtime: 20 minutes
Created by The Eye team, this full dome show explores one of the universe’s most mysterious and magnificent features–the nebulae!
We’ll explore these phenomena from up close and inside, to see these phenomena as you have never seen them before!
Join us on a journey through the births and deaths of stars, to see where all the matter in the universe begins and ends.
The Eye creative team presents
WORLDS IN MOTION
Runtime: 28 minutes
Worlds in Motion invites you to explore a universe that is never still.
Journey through the solar system as Earth spins, tilts, and travels through space, shaping the rhythms of day and night, the changing seasons, and the shifting light of the Moon.
Discover how the Sun, Earth, and Moon work together to create the patterns we see in the sky and feel on our planet.
Through immersive visuals and storytelling, this show reveals how motion connects everything—from distant worlds to your everyday experience.
*Specifically designed to meet 4th + 5th grade science SOLs*
Please be advised: Planetarium star shows may feature rapid movement and intense scenes with light and sound that may not be suitable for viewers with select sensitivities. Please feel free to contact our team with any questions or concerns about our content.
Past Events
