Herbert Trackman Planetarium

Dedicated to continuing its tradition of outstanding astronomical instruction and entertainment since 1973! The Trackman Planetarium features a 30' diameter dome and a state-of-the-art digital projection system. Planetarium shows include interactive sky tours exploring constellations and planets, followed by a stellar full dome production.

September Planetarium Shows

As Autumn approaches, the night sky comes alive with celestial marvels, dazzling constellations, planetary pairings, meteor showers, and a total lunar eclipse! Discover it all at the Trackman Planetarium, where you can explore the universe, unlock cosmic curiosities, and experience the wonders of the stars. Come see what’s shining above JJC. Your journey through the cosmos begins here.

Planetarium shows are free to attend. All ages welcome!

✮ ALL SHOWS ARE HELD 6:00-7:00p.m. ✮
 

✧ Thursday, August 28 & Tuesday, September 2
The Trackman Planetarium will be CLOSED on August 28 and September 2. 

Join us next time for another stellar adventure. 

✧ Thursday, September 4
“Body Code” Explore the complex systems of the human body – from the eyes, brain, ears, heart, veins and arteries. In this show, we shrink down to microscopic size to fly through the body and into the DNA that comprises all living things. Along the way, we see how the body fights diseases at a cellular level.  

✧ Tuesday, September 9
“Cosmology” addresses how our understanding of the universe has evolved throughout time. Discover the young science of cosmology in this student-produced planetarium program. From early universe theories to the Big Bang, witness the progression of our cosmic understanding. A scientific insight.

✧ Thursday, September 11
“Always Above: Space Is Closer Than You Think” Did you know there are an estimated 10,000 satellites orbiting overhead today? We utilize these satellites every day for shopping, communication, navigation, entertainment, and more! This film brings to perspective just how close space is to home and how these technologies affect our everyday lives. Explore the different types of satellites, their orbital patterns, the threats they pose, and the role of the U.S. Space Force in operating these assets.

✧ Tuesday, September 16
“BIG Questions: Astrobiology” Embark on a captivating journey through space and time as we explore its greatest mysteries. How did Earth evolve to become a life-bearing planet? Where did that life come from? Could it exist elsewhere? These age-old questions drive scientists to look deeper into our origins. The groundbreaking mission, OSIRIS-Rex is searching for answers on a nearby asteroid Bennu. Discover how this mission is piecing together Earth’s ancient history and imagine what life beyond might look like.

✧ Thursday, September 18 
“Messengers of Time & Space” Journey through the universe to discover how cosmic signals like light, particles, and gravitational waves serve as messengers from the farthest reaches of space and the deepest moments in time. From supernovae to black holes, learn how these powerful clues help scientists unravel the history of the cosmos and explore the forces that shape our universe. A trip through space and time. 

✧ Tuesday, September 23 
A Sensory-friendly tour of the Solar System! All are welcome to attend this calming journey through the stars in this specially designed planetarium show for neurodiverse guests. With gentle lighting, low sound levels, minimal visual stimulation, and a relaxed pace, this experience offers a welcoming space where movement, fidgeting, and comfort items are encouraged. Tactile materials, clear narration, and a quiet space will help guests feel prepared and supported. This inclusive show invites you to explore the wonders of the universe in a way that feels safe, flexible, and engaging.
 

✧ Thursday, September 25
“Sunset Meditation” Enjoy a guided full dome meditation experience. The Trackman Planetarium offers a dark and quiet space to focus on introspection and psychological nourishment. Take a magical moment for yourself… Strengthen your emotional well-being… Embrace the wonders of the planet. “Sunset Meditation” takes us on a journey from the North Pole to a sunset over the Grand Canyon. Then, relax under a night sky filled with stars and the beauty of the auroras.  

✧ Tuesday, September 30
“Forward! To the Moon” NASA’s Artemis program is the next giant leap on the mission to the Moon! See similarities between Apollo & Artemis, hear the perspectives of mission astronauts, and investigate what it takes to travel safely 240,000 miles from home (and back). This full dome production gives us a glimpse into what a sustainable future on the lunar surface might look like. Narrator Kari Byron of Myth Busters launches us on a voyage beyond Earth and into the next chapter of human space exploration.  

Come back next month for the October show schedule...

About the JJC Planetarium

You're invited to explore the Universe at JJC's Trackman Planetarium! 

Located in Room F-1001 on Joliet Junior College's Main Campus, the Trackman Planetarium welcomes the public to experience the wonders of the cosmos. Our 55-seat, theatre-style dome offers an immersive environment where science comes to life. No registration required. Join us for free public shows every Tuesday and Thursday evening 6:00-7:00p.m. (unless otherwise noted). 

Interested in booking a field trip for your school? JJC's Trackman Planetarium makes learning about science FUN and memorable. We offer field trip opportunities on select Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays all year long! These free, unique presentations are tailored to your students' grade level and designed to align with classroom curriculum. Prepare for a stellar journey covering topics from science and mythology to history, literature, art, anatomy, and beyond. A trip to the Trackman offers an unforgettable learning experience in a unique one-of-a-kind setting. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early!

Private group presentations are also available during field trip hours or select Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Whether you're a Scout troop, library, day care, senior center, special needs facility, church, or lifelong learner organization, we offer engaging, private shows that inspire curiosity and spark discovery. 

✮ Contact fieldtripcoordinator@jjc.edu or call (815) 280-2601 for more information ✮