Planetarium to shine light on Christmas Star

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Trace the footsteps of ancient Babylonian astronomers at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo when the popular holiday planetarium show “Mystery of the Christmas Star” returns for a limited run playing Friday nights, Dec. 7-28, except Dec. 14. All shows are at 7 p.m.

Trace the footsteps of ancient Babylonian astronomers at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo when the popular holiday planetarium show “Mystery of the Christmas Star” returns for a limited run playing Friday nights, Dec. 7-28, except Dec. 14. All shows are at 7 p.m.

Since its first showing in December 2006, this show is a tradition during the holiday season at ‘Imiloa. The planetarium show poses interesting questions and observations about cosmic events that may have prompted the vision of the bright star in the skies long ago.

“Mystery of the Christmas Star” takes audiences on a journey back 2000 years to Bethlehem to discover a possible scientific explanation for the star the wise men followed to find the baby Jesus and investigates recorded sightings of significant astronomical events during the time of the birth of Christ. This modern retelling of the Christmas story is sure to charm and captivate audiences of all ages.

“They go back in time mapping out these sequential recorded events from the Babylonian astrological traditions and theorize the possible true nature of the ‘Christmas Star’,” said Shawn Laatsch, ‘Imiloa’s planetarium manager.

Admission is $10 for non-members and $8 for members. Tickets may be pre-purchased at the ‘Imiloa front desk or by phone, using Visa or MasterCard, by calling 969-9703 during regular business hours. Tickets, which are non-refundable, will also be available at the door prior to the show.