Pictured is Becky LaBrecque, director of the Shiras Planetarium. (Journal file photo)

MARQUETTE — The Shiras Planetarium will welcome Dr. Joel Weisberg to Marquette this April as part of the American Astronomical Society’s prestigious Harlow Shapley Visiting Lectures Program.

Dr. Weisberg, professor emeritus of physics and astronomy at Carleton College, has dedicated his career to advancing astronomy education, public outreach, and research in areas including pulsars, relativity, and the interstellar medium. His visit brings a unique opportunity for the Marquette community to engage with a nationally respected astronomer whose work bridges cutting-edge science and public understanding of the universe.

The visit will feature a series of public events centered on astronomy, storytelling, and the importance of dark skies.

• Day 1 – Celebrate 61 Years of the Shiras Planetarium

Monday, April 20, Shiras Planetarium

The community is invited to celebrate the planetarium’s 61st anniversary with a special evening under the dome. The event will feature Dr. Weisberg alongside current Director Becky LaBrecque and former director Scott Stobbelaar, who led the planetarium from 1973-1992.

Two free programs will be offered (tickets required due to limited seating):

Program 1-6 p.m. — A Tour of the Universe. 
Dr. Weisberg will guide audiences on a journey through the cosmos, exploring the scale, beauty, and wonder of the universe while offering insights into the astronomical objects and phenomena that shape it.

Program 2-7:30 p.m. — Stories Under the Stars
. A collaborative experience featuring Weisberg, LaBrecque, and Stobbelaar. This program blends constellation storytelling, astronomy education, and personal reflections from three educators who have inspired audiences under the night sky.

Following the evening programs, guests are invited to a birthday celebration and community star party, weather permitting. Telescopes will be available for public viewing, along with birthday treats in honor of the planetarium’s milestone year.

Tickets for both programs must be reserved in advance at:
https://shirasplanetarium.org/tickets/

NOTE- You must have a ticket for each event to attend both. The sessions are ticketed separately, with limited seating available.

• Day 2 – Public Lecture at Northern Michigan University

Tuesday, April 21, 7 p.m. — Lecture Hall C (Room 2906), The Science Building

Dr. Weisberg will present “The Lives and Deaths of Stars,” an engaging lecture exploring how stars form, evolve, and ultimately shape the universe. This program is open to students, educators, and the general public.