Lee Ann Johnson, instructor in the Berea College physics department, has begun a series of Sunday afternoon shows in the facility with the next show scheduled Oct. 21 at 3 p.m.

Titled "Clouds of Fire," the show explains the origins of the elements that make up our universe. Other scheduled programs are "Andromeda," Nov. 4; "Larry, Cat in Space," (especially for children and families), Nov. 18; and "Millennium Mysteries," Dec. 2.

Until now, the planetarium has been used primarily by students and scheduled groups, but Johnson wants to introduce this resource to more people in the community as well as make it easier for individuals and families to attend showings.

Planetarium shows are entertaining as well as well as educational. From comfortable reclined seats, viewers enjoy a combination of narration, music, sound and lighting effects, with slides and video. By projecting recreations of the stars onto a dome shaped screen, attendants can view the wonders of the night sky any time of day.

One of the greatest advantages of visiting a planetarium is that you can "observe the stars as they are seen from any location in the world," said Johnson. Observers are also not limited by poor weather conditions.

Berea College's planetarium, which is also used as an astronomy classroom, seats 40. College students operate and maintain the facility. Because it is a relatively small facility, Berea's planetarium can offer more individual attention for each patron. "Berea is very lucky to have a planetarium like this," said Johnson. "It's great for the community."

Johnson is a 1990 graduate of Berea, who also holds a master's degree in physics from the University of Kentucky. She gained a love for astronomy while taking Dr. Smith Powell's astronomy course during her time at Berea College. She is teaching in the physics department this year while Powell is on sabbatical.

Admission for each is $1.50 per person and $10.00 for scheduled groups. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Alice Hooker at 859-985-3351.