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Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium

Two people in a telescope observatory, one holding a grid-like sheet, the other holding an object, surrounded by equipment and mountains.
Gene (left) and Carolyn (right) Shoemaker, 1994
Concrete structure with a sign saying "The Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium" and a circular staircase.
Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium
Concrete circular structure labeled "The Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium" with railings, in an open field.
Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium
Spiral concrete staircase structure in a grassy area next to a road, surrounded by wooden fencing.
Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium
Aerial view of a building with solar panels, a circular fenced structure nearby, and a road in the background.
Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium
Two people in a telescope observatory, one holding a grid-like sheet, the other holding an object, surrounded by equipment and mountains.
Concrete structure with a sign saying "The Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium" and a circular staircase.
Concrete circular structure labeled "The Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium" with railings, in an open field.
Spiral concrete staircase structure in a grassy area next to a road, surrounded by wooden fencing.
Aerial view of a building with solar panels, a circular fenced structure nearby, and a road in the background.

Located in Upper Bidwell Park, the Shoemaker Open Sky Planetarium is a one-of-a-kind outdoor amphitheater dedicated to exploring the wonders of the night sky. Named in honor of Carolyn and Gene Shoemaker, pioneers in comet and asteroid impact research, the planetarium combines live stargazing with cutting-edge technology to bring astronomy to life.

Carolyn Shoemaker, a Chico State graduate, made history by discovering 32 comets—more than any other individual—and co-discovering the famous Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet, which collided with Jupiter in 1994. Her legacy is celebrated here with 32 comet-shaped art pieces by local artist Robin Indar.

Funded by local donors, including Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and Butte College, the planetarium features wireless monitors for enhanced viewing and a high-speed internet connection installed by meteorologist Anthony Watts. Open to the public and available for group presentations, it serves as an educational hub, inspiring curiosity about space and science.

Learn more about Carolyn Shoemaker’s incredible contributions to astronomy: NASA Bio