Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium
Science and Mathematics Complex
Geosciences Department
Our state-of-the-art planetarium is a unique campus resource continuing the tradition of bringing astronomy education to the Buffalo State and Western New York communities since 1964. The planetarium seats up to 48 visitors under its 35-foot diameter dome and includes several types of projectors. The planetarium uses a Spitz SciDome 4K digital projection system, a Zeiss ZKP4 opto-mechanical star projector, an AVI SkyLase laser system, a ChromaCove LED lighting system, and a 5.1 stereo sound system to offer audiences exciting experiences in astronomy, earth science, and other topics.
Students studying astronomy, geology, and other courses use the planetarium as an immersive visualization laboratory in which to view course topics in ways not possible elsewhere. The planetarium also offers programs for school groups, scout groups, and the general public where audiences view the night sky and are transported across our solar system and out into the universe.