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Articles uploaded July 14, 2025
Arizona Science Center's Dorrance Planetarium Grand Opening - October 18, 2025
Press Release, July 14, 2025
PHOENIX, AZ – Arizona Science Center is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated grand reopening of the Dorrance Planetarium on Saturday, October 18. As one of the world’s most advanced digital domes, this iconic space marks a bold new chapter for science, technology, culture, and tourism in Arizona.
Featuring a cutting-edge high-resolution LED dome, the reimagined Dorrance Planetarium becomes Arizona’s premier destination for immersive learning. From awe-inspiring journeys through the cosmos to real-time storytelling of our changing world, it will serve as the statewide hub for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) engagement and discovery.
With this transformation, Arizona Science Center cements its place as a global leader in immersive science experiences—pushing the boundaries of how we learn, explore, and connect with the universe around us.
Powered by Cosm’s revolutionary CX system, the new planetarium delivers an unparalleled immersive experience that fuses cutting-edge science and technology like never before. The CX system redefines the definition of an immersive experience through its best-in-class technology, content, and purposeful design.
“Visitors aren't just watching,” said Guy Labine, the Hazel A. Hare President & CEO of Arizona Science Center. “They're immersed in storytelling, space exploration, and scientific discovery. The Dorrance Planetarium is reimaging STEAM education while setting a new standard in scientific storytelling.”
Delivering an unparalleled combination of stunning visual excellence and immersive, unforgettable user experiences, the Dorrance Planetarium features:
8K+ visual resolution provides lifelike clarity and realism that elevates every show.
100x the brightness of traditional projection ensures vibrant, dynamic visuals even in complex or high-action sequences.
A seamless, wraparound canvas supports diverse programming—from space science and STEM education to live shows and custom events.
The Dorrance Planetarium comfortably seats 194 guests in total, featuring 106 premium fixed seats for an optimal viewing experience, plus 88 movable chairs that provide flexible seating arrangements to suit a variety of group sizes and event types.
“This groundbreaking experience is the first of its kind in Arizona, and only the 2nd in the country. It seamlessly blends immersive technology, interactive elements, and cutting-edge STEAM education,” said Jacquie Dorrance. She added, “It embodies our unwavering commitment to creating a lasting, positive impact on communities across Arizona.”
Advanced ticket sales for the highly anticipated fall reopening of the Dorrance Planetarium will begin in mid-August. Guests are encouraged to sign up for Arizona Science Center’s newsletter to receive early access to ticket sales, invitations to exclusive preview events, and the latest updates on upcoming programming. Details will also be announced on Arizona Science Center’s website and social media channels.
The reopening of the Dorrance Planetarium marks a pivotal milestone in Arizona Science Center’s bold transformation. As part of the Center’s ambitious Visitor Experience Renewal Plan, this project signals the beginning of a new era in science learning and engagement. More than just a renovation, the plan reimagines the entire Guest journey, elevating the Science Center from a cherished local treasure to a world-class destination for science exploration, education, and inspiration—right in the heart of downtown Phoenix.
For more information about the Dorrance Planetarium and continued updates, visit azscience.org.
President Trump’s new executive order establishes a White House Task Force on AI Education to integrate artificial intelligence into K-12 education, prioritizing early exposure for students, comprehensive teacher training, and public-private partnerships to boost AI literacy nationwide. The initiative also directs federal agencies to expand AI-related apprenticeships, prioritize AI-focused grants and research, and create new pathways for high school students to access AI coursework and certifications, aiming to secure America’s leadership in the AI-driven future.
What can be done to reduce violence in communities? One recent trend to combat community-wide violence is the creation of urban green spaces.
“Green space” includes parks, trails, and community areas that connect residents with nature. Maintaining existing green spaces and greening vacant lots can transform the physical environment from one that promotes crime and fear to one that may reduce crime and improve perceptions of safety.
Not only can greening vacant lots reduce violent crime, anxieties, and fears, it can also create a space for communities to get together and feel safe while outdoors. The increased safety associated with greening vacant lots can also create spaces for outdoor activities, which could reduce the risk of heart disease and other noncommunicable diseases.
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Date: June 16-17, 2025 | More information
Federal agencies are closing or consolidating numerous science advisory committees following an executive order, affecting NASA, NSF, NOAA, and others, with some committees on STEM education and research among those eliminated. This shift could reduce opportunities for expert input on science policy and impact how agencies engage with the STEM community and set research priorities.
A White House budget proposal would eliminate funding for NOAA’s cooperative institutes and key laboratories, threatening hundreds of research projects on weather, climate, and ocean science across 80 universities in 33 states. Scientists warn that even short-term funding disruptions could halt lifesaving research, lead to layoffs, and permanently damage the nation’s capacity for accurate forecasting and disaster preparedness.
Learning Opportunities
The AEOP High School Internships offer students the chance to conduct hands-on research in university and U.S. Army labs nationwide, with mentorship from professional scientists and engineers. Participants gain real-world STEM experience, build networks, and receive a stipend, all while preparing for college and future STEM careers.
Special Thanks to Jenny Frank at STEM Ecosystems and her Friday National Information Updates
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