It’s an airy space with a number of chairs placed in a circle.

As the Cranbrook Acheson Planetarium darkens and the large dome-like ceiling gives way to the night sky, guests experience a unique view of the universe. With a 360 degree experience and a 5.1 surround sound system, visitors are visually launched into space for a very real and up close look.

Get an even closer look at the Cranbrook Observatory, where a large dome facility houses three research-grade telescopes, giving you clear views of the brightest stars and planets.

The Cranbrook Institute of Science, located in Bloomfield Hills, gives you a front row seat and the closest view, without venturing into space yourself.

The Planetarium is open Tuesday-Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Planetarium programs are offered Friday and Saturday evening as well as every Saturday and Sunday. Programs are offered daily in the summer months. Tickets to the planetarium are $5 in addition to museum admission. Click here to see the Planetarium’s program schedule.

The observatory is open Friday and Saturday, from 7:30-10 p.m. and the first Sunday of every month, from 1-4 p.m. (for safe viewing of the sun). All open times are weather permitting.

For more information about the Cranbrook Institute of Science, visit their website or connect with them on their Facebook and Twitter page.

For more ways to experience astronomy and the night sky in and around Oakland County, take a look at our Interactive Astronomy and Night Sky Map.

For the latest county news and events, use #OaklandCounty on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn pages or visit our website.