Sudekum Planetarium is a state-of-the-art 63-foot dome theater with an unparalleled projection system. Our programs include planetarium shows, laser shows, and occasional featured events like concerts.
Our accessibility offerings include open captions for most shows (except live shows and laser shows) and assistive listening devices. Just ask a team member as you enter the planetarium. Learn more about accessibility at Adventure Science Center.
For questions about tickets or the show schedule, please call 615-862-5160. For all other inquiries about the planetarium, please call 615-401-5097 or email planetarium@adventuresci.org.
And don’t forget to go look at the real stars tonight!
Sit back, relax, and watch the stars come out during Nightwatch, our live show that highlights the stars, constellations, and planets visible in the evening at this time of year. Come chat with us after the show - it’s a great opportunity to ask questions. Check our schedule for showtimes.
Don’t forget to check out our latest star chart and take a look at the real sky!
Yes. The Sudekum Planetarium is located inside Adventure Science Center. Exhibit admission or an active membership is required in conjunction with show tickets.
Children under the age of 2 seated in an adult’s lap do not require planetarium tickets. If you wish your child to be in a separate seat (i.e., in a carrier), a ticket is required. Please note that strollers are not permitted in the planetarium theater.
At the center of the Turner Theatre is the GOTO Chiron optical star projector, which fills the dome with more than 6.5 million stars. This breathtakingly realistic night sky is paired with a 7K Digistar fulldome system that projects images and animations of the wonders of the universe from horizon to horizon. Few other planetariums in the country offer the seamless integration of these two technologies. Add our laser shows, gently sloping seating, and a powerful 13,000-watt, 5.1 surround sound system, and get ready for a unique, immersive, and exhilarating experience.
Our story started with Tony Sudekum. A Nashville native and president of Crescent Amusement Company, we were privileged to number him among the museum’s founding board members. After Tony’s passing in 1946, his widow made a donation to purchase our first star projector. Armand Spitz, the inventor of that projector, was the guest of honor at a ceremony dedicating the Sudekum Planetarium on March 3, 1952.
Throughout 73 years and counting, two complete rebuilds, and other upgrades along the way, our planetarium has grown and improved. Whether you’re looking for laser shows, unique fulldome programs, or a modern version of the classic planetarium sky show, we’ve got you covered.
Yes! Sudekum Planetarium has created original productions for planetariums since 1987. If you’re ready to bring our shows to your planetarium, please see this page for more information!