See Stars in Branchburg

Last week brought several days of dark clouds and rain, and even though summer is beginning to wind down, it is time to consider an indoor activity just in case. This week, that activity is the Raritan Valley Community College’s Planetarium, which seems to be offering something for everyone during these last weeks of August.

Jerry Vinski directs the Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium, located on the campus at 118 Lamington Rd. in Branchburg. Alongside the educational aspects of the Planetarium’s offerings, the RVCC is also presenting a series of shows that are strictly for fun.

“We have a variety of star shows and laser concerts for all ages.  Next week is the last offerings of our summer schedule,” Vinski said. Then he broke down the schedule: On Tuesday, “The Little Star That Could” and “Attack of the Space Pirates” at 3 p.m.; on Wednesday, “Rockin’” Rocket Ride” 2 p.m. and “Skylights” at 3 p.m.; and on Thursday “SETI” at 2 p.m. and “Laser Light” at 3 p.m.

“Summer Skies” will be shown Friday at 7:30 p.m. while the Planetarium presents the last of its summer laser shows highlighting the music of the Electric Light Orchestra at 8:30 p.m.

So are you ready to see the lasers dance to “Mr. Blue Sky?” We are, so we’ve made the Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium our entertaining and dry day trip of the week.

DAY TRIPPER DIGEST

Estimated Travel Time: 50 minutes.

Why it’s Worth the Trip:  Running until Aug. 26, take a colorful trip back in time—all the way back to the ‘70s—with laser lights synchronized to the music of Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra. The playlist includes hits like “Strange Magic,” “Do Ya,” “Evil Woman,” “Turn to Stone,” “Don't Bring Me Down” and more.

How to Get There from Here: Detailed driving directions.

You’ll Probably Get Hungry:  Grab a meal at Moe’s Southwest Grill, Masa Sushi, Louka’s Last American Diner, Stoney Brook Grille, or grab a latte at Starbucks.

While You’re in the Area: Tour the Raritan Valley Community College Campus after dinner and before the show begins.

The Planetarium features a state-of-the-art digital projection system, and their website touts the set-up as “six powerful, high definition projectors combine real images and computer animations to create an immersive ‘you-are-there’ style experience. With DigitalSky 2, audiences feel as though they are zooming through the solar system, past the Milky Way, and to the very edges of the universe.”

Jerry Vinski also reminded visitors to check out what is available in the souvenirs department. “We also have a gift shop and a nice exhibit area that describes the size and scale of the universe, meteorites, star types and more,” he said.

All shows are $6 admission for all ages.  Two shows on the same day is $11. Details at www.raritanval.edu/planetarium.