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 Public Shows

Friday nights, we welcome the public to join us for free planetarium shows! Guests 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.

Cost: FREE (Donations are appreciated!)
For: Everyone of all ages
Seating: First-come, first-served (registration is required)
Arrival: Doors open 30 minutes before the start of the show
Inclement Weather Policy: If NKU is closed due to inclement weather, all shows at Haile Planetarium are canceled for that date.

Upcoming Shows

Select an event to learn more and

register for a free public show

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 Includes

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.

Capacity

The party package can accomodate up to 30 children.

Availability

Parties are scheduled on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month from 1-3 PM or 4-6 PM.

Cost

$200 (Additional options, such as gift bags, can be arranged for an extra charge.)

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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & CHARGES

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.

Reservations

Spaces fill up quickly, so contact us soon to reserve your spot and make your child’s birthday a stellar event!
For more information, contact NKU Community Connections at connect@nku.edu or (859) 572-5600.

Schedule a Birthday Party

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

Private Shows

Host a memorable event with a private planetarium show tailored to your group's interests. Whether it’s a corporate event, a family gathering, or a special celebration, our private shows offer a unique and personalized experience in a stunning astronomical setting.

Learn More & Schedule Your Event

Event Types

Private planetarium shows are tailored to you needs. Common examples of private shows include (but are not limited to):

School Field Trips - Our school group shows complement classroom learning with vivid visuals and interactive elements. Tailored by age, they make astronomy and curriculum-based content exciting, accessible, and fun.
Scout Troop Outings - Troops can enjoy fun, hands-on shows that support badge goals and spark a love for science and space exploration.
Special Occasions - Make your event unforgettable with a private planetarium show tailored to your group - perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or corporate events in a one-of-a-kind cosmic setting.

Capacity

For private events, the planetarium can accomodate up to 60 people.

Normal Business Hours

Monday - Friday, 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Private events and visits outside of normal business hours are subject to after-hours pricing*.

*After-Hours Pricing:

Group Type	Cost for 1st Hour	Cost for Additional Hours
Non-profit Groups and Scout Troops	$50	$50 / hour
All Other Groups	$100	$50 / hour

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

Reservations

Visits MUST be confirmed with Planetarium and NKU staff before making a payment.
For more information, contact NKU Community Connections at connect@nku.edu or (859) 572-5600.

Request a Private Show

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

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

Program Inquiries: planetarium@nku.edu

Social Media:

Location & Directions

Address:

Northern Kentucky University

1 Louie B Nunn Drive
Highland Heights, KY 41099

Dorothy Westerman Herrmann Natural Science Center, Room 409

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 room 409 is the last room on the right.