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Golden Pond

Planetarium

Golden Pond Planetarium

Prepare to be starstruck at the Golden Pond Planetarium, where the universe comes alive in a spectacle of vibrant colors and ultra-high definition! Our  4K UHD SkyExplorer Digital projection system will catapult you into the cosmos, projecting a universe of bright, crisp celestial wonders onto our massive forty-foot dome. It’s not just a visit; it’s an interstellar odyssey that entertains and enlightens, leaving you awestruck and hungry for more cosmic knowledge. Don’t miss this out-of-this-world experience!

Q

Contact Woodlands Nature Station

Phone
(270) 924-2299

Group bookings
(270) 924-2020

Address
Woodlands Nature Station
3146 Silver Trail Road
Cadiz, KY 42211

 

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Hours

Open daily year-round | 10 am – 5 pm


(Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day)

General Admission

Adult (13+) $7 
Youth 5-12 $4.50
Ages 4 and under free

Laser Shows: All seats $8.00


(Higher rates may apply to some special events.)

Get Up Close

Step into a realm where the cosmos is closer than ever! At the Golden Pond Planetarium, our trio of expert interpreters will elevate your stargazing adventure with live, engaging narratives that complement the stunning animated cosmos above. The grandeur of our 40-foot full dome transforms into a celestial canvas, offering you a mesmerizing escape to the stars. It’s an intimate cosmic encounter, where comfort meets the infinite, and you’re sheltered from the elements in a theater that’s as vast as the universe itself. 

Get ready for a stellar experience with Tonight’s Sky Live! This electrifying show transports you on a cosmic journey through the evening’s celestial wonders. As one of the five captivating programs at the Planetarium, it’s your gateway to unraveling the secrets of the planets, stars, and constellations that embroider the night sky. Don’t just learn about the cosmos—become a part of it in this unforgettable astral adventure!

How to Get Here

Golden Pond Planetarium is located at the Land Between the Lakes Visitor’s Center.

Driving Distance

E
Nashville - 96 miles
E
Paducah - 44 miles
E
Clarksville - 53 miles
E
Chicago - 419 miles
E
Louisville - 202 miles
Planetarium Schedule
March – May 2024

Sundays

10 am
The Little Star That Could
11 am
Discover the Stars
12 pm
Totality
1 pm
Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe
2 pm
Traveling with Light
3 pm
Firefall
4 pm
Earth, Moon & Sun

Mondays

10 am
The Little Star That Could
11 am
From Earth to the Universe
12 pm
Traveling with Light
1 pm
Firefall
2 pm
Stars: The Powerhouses of the Universe
3 pm
Habitat Earth
4 pm
Discover the Stars

Tuesdays

10 am
Laser Legends of the Night Sky
11 am
Traveling with Light
12 pm
Discover the Stars
1 pm
Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe
2 pm
Totality
3 pm
From Earth to the Universe
4 pm
Earth, Moon & Sun

Wednesdays

10 am
Laser Legends of the Night Sky
11 am
Explore
12 pm
Firefall
1 pm
Habitat Earth
2 pm
Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe
3 pm
Traveling with Light
4 pm
Discover the Stars

Thursdays

10 am
Laser Legends of the Night Sky
11 am
Traveling with Light
12 pm
Discover the Stars
1 pm
Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe
2 pm
Totality
3 pm
From Earth to the Universe
4 pm
Earth, Moon & Sun

Fridays

10 am
The Little Star That Could
11 am
From Earth to the Universe
12 pm
Traveling with Light
1 pm
Firefall
2 pm
Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe
3 pm
Habitat Earth
4 pm
Discover the Stars

Saturdays

10 am
Laser Legends of the Night Sky
11 am
Discover the Stars
12 pm
Totality
1 pm
Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe
2 pm
Traveling with Light
3 pm
Firefall
4 pm
Earth, Moon & Sun

Planetarium Schedule
June – August 2024 (Download PDF)
XX

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

10 am

The Little Star That Could

The Little Star That Could

Laser Legends of the Night Sky

Laser Legends of the Night Sky

The Little Star That Could

Laser Legends of the Night Sky

Laser Legends of the Night Sky

11 am

Discover the Stars

From Earth to the Universe

Traveling with Light

Explore

Traveling with Light

From Earth to the Universe

Discover the Stars

12 pm

Totality

Traveling with Light

Discover the Stars

Firefall

Discover the Stars

Traveling with Light

Totality

1 pm

Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe

Firefall

Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe

Habitat Earth

Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe

Firefall

Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe

2 pm

Traveling with Light

Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe

Totality

Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe

Totality

Stars: The Powerhouse of the Universe

Traveling with Light

3 pm

Firefall

Habitat Earth

From Earth to the Universe

Traveling with Light

From Earth to the Universe

Habitat Earth

Firefall

4 pm

Earth, Moon & Sun

Discover the Stars

Earth, Moon & Sun

Discover the Stars

Earth, Moon & Sun

Discover the Stars

Earth, Moon & Sun

Stars: the Powerhouse of the Universe

Every star has a story. Some are as old as time, faint and almost forgotten. Journey to the furthest reaches of our galaxy and experience both the awesome beauty and destructive power of stars. Mark Hamill will walk you through the dynamic process of how stars are formed, exciting adventures in space exploration, the significance of the electromagnetic spectrum in observing the universe, as well as the rich cultural history of astronomy from around the world.

Totality

“Totality” is a fascinating look at all the wonders of eclipses, especially total solar eclipses. An eclipse is described simply as when one celestial object blocks another from our view. This program, produced by Bays Mountain Planetarium, examines what eclipses are, how and when they occur, and what wonderful sights they create. We also look back to a fascinating period in scientific discovery when general relativity was proven with the photographic recording of a total solar eclipse. Our production includes a variety of wonderful styles – from spectacular space environments to humorous pop-up books. A very special part of the show relates, in a very human way, what happens when you are caught in the shadow of the Moon and the Sun is plunged into a total solar eclipse.

Habitat Earth

Living networks connect and support life forms large and small—from colonies of tiny microbes and populations of massive whales to ever-expanding human societies. In the California Academy of Sciences’ latest original planetarium show, discover what it means to live in today’s connected world. Through stunning visualizations of the natural world, dive below the ocean’s surface to explore the dynamic relationships found in kelp forest ecosystems, travel beneath the forest floor to see how Earth’s tallest trees rely on tiny fungi to survive, and journey to new heights to witness the intricate intersection between human and ecological networks.

Earth, Moon & Sun

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center created Earth, Moon & Sun to help children explore the relationship between our home planet and its most familiar neighbors. Children are helped in their exploration by Coyote, a character adapted from Native American oral traditions. Native American stories woven throughout the show illustrate how we have long sought to understand our planet and the skies above us. In this show, Coyote proves to be an amusing guide because he has so many misconceptions about space.

From Earth to the Universe

Very broad in scope, the show begins with some brief history of how we have progressed in our understanding of the universe. In the past one hundred years we have grown exponentially and with the aid of the tech industry we are now able to observe aspects of the universe for the first time. Enjoy a nice trip through the solar system with stunning visuals and a top-notch narration.

Discover the Stars

On a clear, dark night, most of us, at one time or another, have gazed upon the stars and wondered about all those tiny points of light. Many of us are able to identify different patterns and constellations in the stars. But, what are those tiny points of light? This exciting program takes viewers beyond a simple observation of the night sky and delves into the fascinating lives of stars.

The Little Star That Could

Children love a good underdog story. This full-dome presentation is about the newest baby star in the sky Little Star. He quickly discovers he is just an average star, but he yearns to become special and have planets of his own. Along the way in his quest, he meets other stars and learns what makes each star special. He also discovers much about planets and what it takes to lead a solar system.

Laser Legends of the Night Sky

Children and adults will enjoy this laser light feature presentation where Aesop the Owl will lead you on a light-hearted look at the Greek mythology associated with some of the constellations. Produced in the spirit of a cartoon, this laser show includes the compelling stories behind the mighty warrior Perseus; the beautiful princess Andromeda; Cetus, the terrible sea monster; Scorpius the scorpion; and Orion the hunter. This show features complex themes common within Greek tragedies, yet softened for younger viewers, such as good vs evil, death, honor, betrayal and sacrifice.

**Warning: Some flickering/dynamic light elements may not be suitable for light sensitive groups.

Traveling with Light

Traveling with Light presents different scenarios that reveal the complexity of light and its direct influence on our planet. The Sun is the closest star to Earth and generates the energy that provides the light and heat necessary for life. Nevertheless, the Sun is not the only source of natural light. Fire has accompanied the Earth since its inception and has played a very important role in the evolution of the human being, so much so that its discovery by primitive societies changed their way of life.

Firefall

If you have ever enjoyed a meteor shower or made a wish upon a “shooting star”, you will enjoy this full dome presentation. All aspects of meteor showers are explored in vivid detail. Where meteors come from, what they are made of, past impact evidence, and possible future impact predictions may surprise you. Comets and asteroids are also discussed making this show about anything that could fall on your head!

Planetarium Show Descriptions

Stars: the Powerhouse of the Universe

Every star has a story. Some are as old as time, faint and almost forgotten. Journey to the furthest reaches of our galaxy and experience both the awesome beauty and destructive power of stars. Mark Hamill will walk you through the dynamic process of how stars are formed, exciting adventures in space exploration, the significance of the electromagnetic spectrum in observing the universe, as well as the rich cultural history of astronomy from around the world.

Totality

“Totality” is a fascinating look at all the wonders of eclipses, especially total solar eclipses. An eclipse is described simply as when one celestial object blocks another from our view. This program, produced by Bays Mountain Planetarium, examines what eclipses are, how and when they occur, and what wonderful sights they create. We also look back to a fascinating period in scientific discovery when general relativity was proven with the photographic recording of a total solar eclipse. Our production includes a variety of wonderful styles – from spectacular space environments to humorous pop-up books. A very special part of the show relates, in a very human way, what happens when you are caught in the shadow of the Moon and the Sun is plunged into a total solar eclipse.

Habitat Earth

Living networks connect and support life forms large and small—from colonies of tiny microbes and populations of massive whales to ever-expanding human societies. In the California Academy of Sciences’ latest original planetarium show, discover what it means to live in today’s connected world. Through stunning visualizations of the natural world, dive below the ocean’s surface to explore the dynamic relationships found in kelp forest ecosystems, travel beneath the forest floor to see how Earth’s tallest trees rely on tiny fungi to survive, and journey to new heights to witness the intricate intersection between human and ecological networks.

Earth, Moon & Sun

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center created Earth, Moon & Sun to help children explore the relationship between our home planet and its most familiar neighbors. Children are helped in their exploration by Coyote, a character adapted from Native American oral traditions. Native American stories woven throughout the show illustrate how we have long sought to understand our planet and the skies above us. In this show, Coyote proves to be an amusing guide because he has so many misconceptions about space.

From Earth to the Universe

Very broad in scope, the show begins with some brief history of how we have progressed in our understanding of the universe. In the past one hundred years we have grown exponentially and with the aid of the tech industry we are now able to observe aspects of the universe for the first time. Enjoy a nice trip through the solar system with stunning visuals and a top-notch narration.

Discover the Stars

On a clear, dark night, most of us, at one time or another, have gazed upon the stars and wondered about all those tiny points of light. Many of us are able to identify different patterns and constellations in the stars. But, what are those tiny points of light? This exciting program takes viewers beyond a simple observation of the night sky and delves into the fascinating lives of stars.

The Little Star That Could

Children love a good underdog story. This full-dome presentation is about the newest baby star in the sky Little Star. He quickly discovers he is just an average star, but he yearns to become special and have planets of his own. Along the way in his quest, he meets other stars and learns what makes each star special. He also discovers much about planets and what it takes to lead a solar system.

Laser Legends of the Night Sky

Children and adults will enjoy this laser light feature presentation where Aesop the Owl will lead you on a light-hearted look at the Greek mythology associated with some of the constellations. Produced in the spirit of a cartoon, this laser show includes the compelling stories behind the mighty warrior Perseus; the beautiful princess Andromeda; Cetus, the terrible sea monster; Scorpius the scorpion; and Orion the hunter. This show features complex themes common within Greek tragedies, yet softened for younger viewers, such as good vs evil, death, honor, betrayal and sacrifice.

**Warning: Some flickering/dynamic light elements may not be suitable for light sensitive groups.

Traveling with Light

Traveling with Light presents different scenarios that reveal the complexity of light and its direct influence on our planet. The Sun is the closest star to Earth and generates the energy that provides the light and heat necessary for life. Nevertheless, the Sun is not the only source of natural light. Fire has accompanied the Earth since its inception and has played a very important role in the evolution of the human being, so much so that its discovery by primitive societies changed their way of life.

Firefall

If you have ever enjoyed a meteor shower or made a wish upon a “shooting star”, you will enjoy this full dome presentation. All aspects of meteor showers are explored in vivid detail. Where meteors come from, what they are made of, past impact evidence, and possible future impact predictions may surprise you. Comets and asteroids are also discussed making this show about anything that could fall on your head!

Scheduled Viewing

Contact the Planetarium Manager about scheduling a specific presentation for your group.

Sky observation at the Observatory can also be scheduled.

Q

Contact Woodlands Nature Station

Phone
(270) 924-2299

Group bookings
(270) 924-2020

Address
Woodlands Nature Station
3146 Silver Trail Road
Cadiz, KY 42211

 

Laser Shows

Immerse yourself in an auditory and visual spectacle! Our laser light show extravaganza returns, now more mesmerizing than ever, with an RGB projector that paints the air with 16 million colors. Feel the music of legends like the Beatles and Pink Floyd in a way that’s not just heard, but seen—where every note dances in a kaleidoscope of laser brilliance. Don’t miss out on this sensory revolution! All seats $8.

Laser Show Schedule
June – August 2024 (Download PDF)

June

5:30 pm

7:30 pm

8:00 pm

Sat. June 1

Laser Beatles

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Tue. June 4

Laser Retor: Best of the 80s

Taylor Swift

Fri. June 7

Taylor Swift

Fright Light

Sat. June 8

Laser Country

Taylor Swift

Stars are the Powerhouses of the Universe (reg. admission)

Tue. June 11

Laser Queen

Laser Country

Fri. June 15

Laser Beatles

Taylor Swift

Tue. June 18

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Fri. June 21

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s

Sat June 22

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Laser Metallica

Tue June 25

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Fri June 28

Taylor Swift

Laser Queen

Sat June 29

Laser Queen

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

July

Tue July 2

Taylor Swift

Laser Metallica

Fri July 5

Laser Country

Taylor Swift

Sat July 6

Laser Beatles

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock

FIREFALL (reg. admission)

Tue July 9

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s

Taylor Swift

Fri July 12

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Sat July 13

Laser Queen

Laser Country

Tue July 16

Laser  Beatles

Taylor Swift

Fri July 19

Fright Light

Laser Metallica

Sat July 20

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s

Laser Queen

Tue July 23

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Fri July 26

Taylor Swift

Laser Zeppelin

Sat July 27

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Tue July 30

Taylor Swift

Laser Metallica

August

Sat August 3

Fright Light

Taylor Swift

STARS: The Powerhouse of the Universe (reg. admission)

Tue August 6

Taylor Swift

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s

Sat August 10

Laser Zeppelin

Laser Queen

Laser Metallica

Tue August 13

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd: The Wall

Sat August 17

Laser Beatles

Taylor Swift

Laser Country

Tue August 20

Laser U2

Laser Metallica

Sat August 24

Laser Country

Taylor Swift

Laser Queen

Tue August 27

Taylor Swift

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock

Laser Show Schedule

JUNE

Sat. June 1

Laser Beatles
5:30 pm

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
7 pm

Pink Floyd: The Wall
8 pm

Tue. June 4

Laser Beatles
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

Fri. June 7

Taylor Swift
5:30 pm

Fright Light
7 pm

Sat. June 8

Laser Country
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

STARS: The Powerhouses of the Universe – Star Party (reg. admission)

Tue. June 11

Laser Queen
5:30 pm

Laser Country
7 pm

Fri. June 15

Laser Beatles
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

Tue. June 18

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
5:30 pm

Pink Floyd: The Wall
7 pm

Fri. June 21

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock
5:30 pm

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s
7 pm

Sat. June 22

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
5:30 pm

Pink Floyd: The Wall
7 pm

Laser Metallica
8 pm

Tue. June 25

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

Fri. June 28

Taylor Swift
5:30 pm

Laser Queen
7 pm

Sat. June 29

Laser Queen
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

JULY

Tue. July 2

Tyalor Swift
5:30 pm

Laser Metallica
7 pm

Fri. July 5

Laser Country
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

Sat. July 6

Laser Beatles
5:30 pm

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock
7 pm

FIREFALL – Star Party (reg. admission)

Tue. July 9

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

Fri. July 12

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
5:30

Pink Floyd: The Wall
7 pm

Sat. July 13

Laser Queen
5:30 pm

Laser Country
7 pm

Tue. July 16

Laser Beatles
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

Fri. July 19

Fright Light
5:30 pm

Laser Metallica
7 pm

Sat. July 20

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s
5:30 pm

Laser Queen
7 pm

Tue. July 23

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
5:30 pm

Pink Floyd: The Wall
7 pm

Fri. July 26

Taylor Swift
5:30 pm

Laser Zeppelin
7 pm

Sat. July 27

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon?
5:30 pm

Pink Floyd: The Wall
7 pm

Tue. July 30

Taylor Swift
5:30 pm

Laser Metallica
7 pm

AUGUST

Sat. August 3

Fright Light
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

STARS: The Powerhouses of the Universe (reg. admission)
8 pm

Tue. August 6

Taylor Swift
5:30 pm

Laser Retro: Best of the 80s

Sat. August 10

Laser Zeppelin
5:30 pm

Laser Queen
7 pm

Laser Metallica
8 pm

Tue. August 13

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
5:30 pm

Pink Floyd: The Wall
7 pm

Sat. August 17

Laser Beatles
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
 7 pm

Laser Country
8 pm

Tue. August 20

Laser U2
5:30 pm

Laser Metallica
7 pm

Sat. August 24

Laser Country
5:30 pm

Taylor Swift
7 pm

Laser Queen
8 pm

Tue. August 27

Taylor Swift
5:30 pm

Laser Vinyl: Classic Rock
7 pm

Gaze Into the Universe

Gaze into the vastness of space with our state-of-the-art 16” telescope at the Observatory! In collaboration with the West Kentucky Amateur Astronomers, Friends of Land Between The Lakes invites you to our enchanting Star Party night sky viewing events. Held on select Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day, these Star Parties promise a celestial celebration under the stars. Coupled with a captivating Planetarium program, each evening is a unique opportunity to explore the universe’s marvels.

If you want to know more about what to look for, we recommend you watch the Planetarium program presented in conjunction with the Star Parties. (Regular admission required to view special Planetarium show.)