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 November, 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.

Please note: On Friday, November 1st and Saturday, November 2nd, The Eye will be screening Coco as part of the Día de los Muertos event. Standard ticketing will be unavailable on those dates. See event info below for details.

*If the Eye is closed for a private event, advance notice will be posted on our website and social media. 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 scheduler@smwv.org. 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.

Nov. 1st & 2nd: Día de los Muertos

Celebrate Día de los Muertos with us in a lively, family-friendly festival full of color, culture, and creativity! Your admission includes a special screening of Coco in The Eye Planetarium and all-day access to festive activities for everyone to enjoy.

Friday, November 1st: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

  • Coco Showtimes: 12:30 PM & 3:00 PM
  • Activities: Face painting, STEAM engineering activities in the Maker Lab, and visits to the Parakeet Garden!

Saturday, November 2nd: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM

  • Coco Showtimes: 12:30 PM & 3:00 PM
  • Activities: Face painting, themed Día de los Muertos STEAM activities in the Maker Lab, and Parakeet Garden access!

All-Event Admission: $20 Adults | $16.50 Child 

Note: For Día de los Muertos, tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $16.50 for children. No standard or ultimate ticket options will be available on these days.

Join us for an unforgettable celebration honoring tradition, family, and hands-on fun!

Coming Soon...

Special Event: SIGHT+SOUND series presents SYNESTHESIA (November 2024)

Premiere Event: Matthew Mosley’s “In Places Where Black Skin Grows” Live Performance (February 2025)

Premiere Event: Roanoque Baroque Orchestra: “In Gardens & Palaces with the Sons of JS Bach & Handel (February 22 & 23rd, 2025)

Premiere Event: Opera Roanoke Young Artists Performance (April 2025)

Past Events

Milky Way Mythos
Solar Eclipse Event