Fiske Planetarium | Boulder

The Fiske Planetarium is an astronomical research and public outreach facility located on the University of Colorado Boulder campus in Boulder, Colorado.

It serves as a venue for public shows, educational programs, and astronomical research.

Visual Characteristics

The Fiske Planetarium is a circular, domed structure constructed primarily of concrete and glass. Its exterior features a light gray concrete finish. The main dome, housing the projection theater, has a diameter of approximately 75 feet. The building's design is modern, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.

Location & Access Logistics

The Fiske Planetarium is situated at 2414 Regent Drive, Boulder, Colorado, on the University of Colorado Boulder campus. It is approximately 1.5 miles east of the Boulder city center. Access is via Regent Drive, which connects to Broadway. Parking is available in the Euclid Avenue Auto Lot and the Regent Drive Parking Garage, both adjacent to the planetarium. Public transport options include the RTD bus routes 10, 12, and 205, which stop near the campus entrance on Broadway.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Fiske Planetarium was constructed in 1971. It was funded by a significant donation from the Fiske family, with the primary purpose of providing astronomical education and research facilities for the university and the surrounding community. The site itself is part of the Front Range foothills, characterized by sedimentary rock formations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Public planetarium shows are presented daily, covering topics such as space exploration, constellations, and the solar system. Laser light shows are also scheduled. The facility hosts educational programs for K-12 students and offers public lectures by astronomers. Visitors can explore exhibits on astronomy and space science within the lobby area.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the building. Limited seating is provided in the lobby area. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the building. No on-site food vendors are present, but dining options are available on the University of Colorado Boulder campus and in nearby downtown Boulder.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal viewing of planetarium shows, it is recommended to arrive 15-20 minutes prior to the scheduled showtime. The best time of day for photography of the exterior is during the late afternoon when the sun angle provides consistent lighting on the concrete structure. Weather in Boulder is generally best from April to October, with clear skies common in the evenings during these months.

Facts & Legends

The Fiske Planetarium's dome is equipped with a Spitz A3P projector, capable of displaying over 6,000 stars. A local anecdote suggests that on exceptionally clear nights, the faint glow of the Milky Way can be observed through the dome's seams if one looks closely from the exterior.

Nearby Landmarks

• University of Colorado Boulder campus (0.1km West)
• CU Museum of Natural History (0.3km West)
• Boulder Creek Path (0.8km South)
• Pearl Street Mall (1.5km West)
• Chautauqua Park (2.5km Southwest)