At West Virginia University , stargazing is not just for astronomy students.

With the recent addition of a digital projector and its full dome design, Tomchin Planetarium , one of WVU s best-kept secrets, provides patrons with a vivid and powerful viewing experience.

Prior to the addition of the new digital projector, planetarium shows were limited to slides that did not present the sense of depth that the new shows now offer. Today, Tomchin Planetarium has an exciting variety of shows that are sure to engage star enthusiasts of all ages.

These shows are much more immersive than slide shows in the past,said John Hopkins, planetarium director.These are the same shows featured by larger planetariums in Europe and Asia.

On clear evenings following the planetarium shows, patrons are encouraged to visit the observation deck on the top of Hodges Hall. The Observatory houses an impressive 14-inch Celestron telescope, perfect for spotting the moon, planets and other various astronomical objects.

The two shows to be featured for the fall semester (August 28November 13) areTwo Small Pieces of GlassandDawn of the Space Age.

Two Small Pieces of Glassis a 25-minute look at how telescopes have allowed mankind to understand space and continue to expand our understanding of the universe.

Dawn of the Space Ageis a 41-minute exploration of Mans first steps in space and features the famous exploration device, Sputnik.

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These displays are free to the general public. Reservations are required for all shows and can be made by calling John Hopkins at 304-293-3422, ext.1443. A full listing of show times can be found at http://planetarium.wvu.edu .