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YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. — Is there life in outer space? Stop by the O. Wayne Rollins Planetarium at Young Harris College in May to find out. 

“We have some great shows lined up in May including Space Aliens – a show that attempts to answer the question about life in the universe,” said Lauren Albain, Planetarium director. “We’ll also have the Observatory open – weather permitting – which is a wonderful opportunity to see the planets and stars for yourself.”  

Here is the lineup for May:  

Friday, May 3 at 8 p.m.: Space Aliens  

Join our “experts” on alien life — one hopeful, the other skeptical — as they try to convince each other, whether or not life exists beyond the Earth. Follow their astrobiology arguments from the ocean floor to a journey across the galaxy. From ancient philosophers to modern-day scientists scouring the sky for exoplanets, humans have always wondered who else might be “out there.” This show takes visitors on an incredible journey in an attempt to answer the ultimate question of the Universe: Are we alone? 

Thursday, May 9 at 9 p.m.: Observatory Open House (Weather Permitting) 

On these special evenings, the Young Harris College Observatory is open to the public for telescopic viewing, if skies are clear and weather permitting. The observatory features a 14-inch telescope and is located around 1.5 miles from campus at Twiggs Overlook on the exit road leading from Brasstown Valley Resort. Observing sessions last up to one hour. 

Please note: Limited parking; no shuttle service; no restroom facilities; uphill walk from the parking area. There are no tickets required for the observatory. All observatory open house events are free and open to the public.  

Planetarium tickets can also be purchased online via Eventbrite by visiting the following link: https://www.yhc.edu/academics/math-science/rollins-planetarium/public-shows Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended since planetarium shows often sell out.  

For planetarium shows, guests are encouraged to arrive early for the best seats.  

Public planetarium shows, with the exception of Cosmic Concerts, include a live-narrated “season stargazing” segment in addition to the featured full-dome program.  

Planetarium Admission:  

  • $5 Adults per show  
  • $3 Children per show  
  • Free for Children under 4 years of age  
  • Free with YHC ID  

Any remaining tickets will be available for purchase at the door 30 minutes before showtime. 

About Young Harris College 

Young Harris College is a private baccalaureate and master’s degree-granting institution located in the beautiful mountains of North Georgia. Founded in 1886 and historically affiliated with The United Methodist Church, Young Harris College educates, inspires, and empowers students through an education that purposefully integrates the liberal arts and professional studies. The College has four academic divisions: Fine Arts; Humanities; Mathematics, Science, and Technology; and Professional Studies. Approximately 1,400 students are enrolled in its residential and Early College programs. The College is an active member of the NCAA Division II and remains a fierce competitor in the Conference Carolinas. For more information, visit yhc.edu.