Haile Digital Planetarium: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

Picture of an in-progress show in the planetarium, featuring a large view of planet Earth.

Haile Planetarium is one of NKU’s hidden gems. The planetarium hosts free public shows several times a month and welcomes thousands of P–12 students each year for educational field trips.

Mission Statement

Haile Planetarium is an educational facility focused on inspiring appreciation and awareness of the universe in NKU students, faculty, and staff from all over campus, regional P-12 students, and the wider community. Astronomy is our starting point; from there we spread into the wider universe of the sciences and reach into literature, art, music, and beyond.

Free Friday Shows

Join us for our regular public planetarium shows, where you'll explore the wonders of the universe through engaging presentations on topics from star tours to deep space discoveries. We also offer special shows for kids ages 8 and under.

FREE (Suggested Donation: $5/person)
Open to the public (all ages welcome)
Registration required
Seating is first come, first served
Doors open 30 minutes before the start of the show

Register for a Free Public Show

Upcoming Shows

Special Events & Opportunities

A planetarium visitor gazes at a galaxy filled screen.

Birthday Parties

Plan an out-of-this-world birthday party at Haile Planetarium! Perfect for young astronomers and space enthusiasts, this unique celebration combines cosmic fun with interactive learning.

Learn More and Schedule a Party

Party Package

30-Minute Planetarium Show or Live Constellation Tour: Delight in a personalized planetarium show or an interactive constellation tour, featuring the birthday child's name projected on the dome for a special touch.
30-Minute Interactive Activity: Choose between an engaging astronomy craft or demonstration, or let your guests embark on a virtual journey through the universe in the planetarium, flying among the stars and planets.
1 Hour in the Party Room: Enjoy exclusive use of our party room for one hour, complete with space-themed decorations to enhance the atmosphere.

Booking and Pricing

This immersive party experience is available for $200 and accommodates up to thirty children. Additional options such as gift bags can be arranged for an extra charge.

Available Time Slots

Birthday parties are scheduled on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month, with the following time slots:

1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Spaces fill up quickly, so contact us soon to reserve your spot and make your child’s birthday a stellar event!

Birthday Party Guidelines

These guidelines aim to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for all parties involved. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Booking and Confirmation

Advance Scheduling: Birthday parties must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Early booking helps us ensure availability and prepare for your event.
Final Guest Count: Provide a final guarantee of the number of children and adults by noon, three weekdays prior to the party date. This helps us prepare for your party and ensures a smooth experience.

Supervision and Safety

Adult Supervision: At least one parent or guardian of the birthday child must remain on-site throughout the party. Supervision ratios are as follows:
- One adult for every 5 children ages 4 to 7.
- One adult for every 10 children ages 8 to 15.
Child Supervision: You are responsible for the supervision of all children at all times. This ensures their safety and enjoyment during the event.

Decorations and Setup

Allowed Decorations: You may bring your own decorations. Please note that confetti, glitter, bubbles, and fireworks are not permitted. Decorations may be attached to the concrete walls only. Please avoid using nails, tacks, tape, glue, or Velcro on the sheetrock walls.
Damage Policy: You will be charged for any damage caused to the facility or its equipment. For safety reasons, piñatas are not allowed.

Entertainment and Activities

External Entertainers: Additional entertainers, such as clowns or jugglers, are not permitted. This policy helps us maintain a controlled and safe environment for all guests.

Food and Refreshments

Food Policy: If the cost of outside food is less than $250, it is allowed. For food costs exceeding this amount, please contact us to discuss catering options or additional arrangements.

Pricing and Changes

Price Adjustments: Northern Kentucky University reserves the right to change prices. Any changes will be communicated in advance to ensure you are informed of the current rates.

Additional Information

Arrival and Setup: Arrive 30 minutes before the party start time for setup. Ensure that guests arrive only at the scheduled party time.

Schedule a Planetarium Birthday Party

Planetarium visitors gaze at the dome-shaped screeen which featuring a vibrant sunset.

Field Trips & Private Groups

School groups are welcome to visit Northern Kentucky University and experience our planetarium through Community Connections during the spring and fall semesters.

Learn More & Schedule Your Event

Field trips include:

Interactive Discussion - Learn about college life, discover interesting facts about NKU, and find out what makes our campus special.
Student-Led Campus Tour - Enjoy a guided tour of our campus led by NKU students, who will share their insights and experiences.
Planetarium Experience - Participate in an academic component in our planetarium, offering an engaging exploration of the universe.

Planetarium Capacity: Up to 60 people

Group Type	Cost (for up to 1 hr.)
Non-profit Groups and Scout Troops	$50
All Other Groups	$100

Add-Ons	Cost
Additional Time (beyond 1 hr.)	$50 / hr.
Additional Services / Activities (beyond the standard package)	$50 each

Inclement Weather Policy

If Northern Kentucky University is closed due to inclement weather, all shows at Haile Planetarium are canceled for that date.

Request a Private Show

Visits MUST be confirmed with Planetarium and NKU staff before making a payment.

Contact NKU Community Connections for more information:
connect@nku.edu | (859) 572-5600

The "Roaming Dome"

Our inflatable planetarium brings the wonders of the universe directly to your event, providing a unique and engaging experience for all ages and audiences.

Learn More and Request a Visit

Booking and Setup

Advance Notice: Requests must be made at least three (3) weeks prior to your desired event date.
Location Requirements: The dome must be set up indoors on a solid floor with a minimum ceiling height of 15 feet. We need a quiet location with minimal background noise and access to a three-prong electrical outlet.
Space Requirements: The Roaming Dome has a footprint of 20'x25'.

Capacity

Children: Accommodates approximately 45 second grade children
Adults: Accommodates approximately 35 adults

Programming / Timing

Customizable Options: Programming can be tailored to your needs, with options including 15 or 25-minute rotations and 5-minute breaks in between.
Setup and Tear Down: At least 30 minutes is needed for setup before the event, and tear-down after the event.

Pricing

NKU Groups (On Campus): $50 per hour
School and Educational Groups: $100 per hour (2 hours minimum) plus mileage
Entertainment and Special Events: $200 per hour (3 hour minimum) plus mileage
Mileage Fees: An additional fee applies based on your distance from Northern Kentucky University. The rate is approximately $7 for every 5 miles, up to 50 miles. Locations beyond 50 miles may be considered, and fees will be assessed accordingly.

Inclement Weather Policy

If Northern Kentucky University is closed due to inclement weather, all shows at Haile Planetarium are canceled for that date.

Request a Visit from the Roaming Dome

Contact Us

Programming Inquiries: planetarium@nku.edu
Reservation Inquiries: connect@nku.edu | (859) 572-5600

Location & Directions

Address:

Northern Kentucky University
1 Louie B Nunn Drive
Dorothy Westerman Herrmann Natural Science Center, Room 409
Highland Heights, KY 41099

Parking: Visitors can park in the Kenton Drive Parking Garage. Parking fees may apply.

Directions: From the Natural Science Center, take the elevator to the 4th floor, turn left out of the elevators, turn left at the hallway, and the planetarium is the last room on the right.

Campus Map: