The Anderson Hancock Planetarium at Marietta College will host showings of Astronomica, the latest immersive 360-degree dome experience from award-winning musician and visionary creator James Hood, beginning Friday, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m. The show marks the final chapter of Hood’s acclaimed multi-sensory trilogy, following Beautifica and Mesmerica, which captivated audiences in more than 40 North American cities.
Known as “The Immersive Pioneer,” Hood is recognized for his unique and innovative sensory-rich projects that fuse art and music, engaging audiences with panoramic storytelling. Astronomica takes audiences on a breathtaking audiovisual odyssey through the cosmos, blending otherworldly 3D visuals and a powerful musical score. Attendees will drift through auroras, dance among the stars, and explore worlds brought to life by a global community of artists. The show is designed to inspire hope, love, and awe, offering a family-friendly experience suitable for attendees ages 6 and up.
“James Hood and his collaborators really went for the astronomical visualizations with this new show. Watching it felt like being invited on a journey through space and into worlds imagined, then brought to life on the dome,” said Franci Bolden, planetarium and physics laboratory technician. “During the first two parts of this trilogy, I experienced relaxation, reflection and joy. Astronomica inspired in me an excitement for exploration.”
As a debut location for Astronomica, Marietta College will host eight shows over two dates at the Anderson Hancock Planetarium — Saturday, Dec. 6, and Saturday, Dec. 13. With four showings each night, audiences will have multiple opportunities to witness this transformative production. Additional dates may be added as demand allows. Ticketing links are available through Marietta College’s official Facebook event listing.
“A planetarium theater is a unique venue that can be used for much more than simulating the night sky,” said Dr. Ann Bragg, planetarium director and professor of physics. “We are excited to once again offer an extraordinary entertainment option to the Mid-Ohio Valley.”
The Anderson Hancock Planetarium is located on Marietta College’s historic campus, adjoining the Rickey Science Center at the corner of Fourth and Butler streets. The 4,400-square-foot facility features theater-style seating for 102 guests and is fully accessible for guests with disabilities. The planetarium utilizes the Goto Chronos hybrid projection system, supporting Marietta College’s mission to bring innovative, inspiring, and educational programming to the community.
For more information about Astronomica or to purchase tickets, visit www.facebook.com/share/17itDyV1PC/ or contact the Anderson Hancock Planetarium at planetarium@marietta.edu.