An unexpected consequence of the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium is its appeal beyond just the campus and local community. It also is attracting thousands of visitors from throughout the country, and even some from the international community.
Planetarium Director Eric Edelman said programs he and the planetarium staff are sharing free of charge to the public attracted more than 15,000 people in just the past six months. In fact, staff members from Education USA offices within U.S. embassies around the world recently toured the campus so they could tell international students about ERAU and its facilities.
Edelman said programs such as “Prescott Summer Night Sky” and “Back to the Moon” have attracted full houses almost every time they are presented. Most shows are on weekends, he noted.
The technologically sophisticated facility will seat 116 in a 360-degree configuration where complex computer multimedia technology can create the virtual reality of the cosmos.
The domed planetarium was made possible through the generosity of Prescott philanthropists Jim and Linda Lee. It sits atop the recently opened STEM Center (science, technology, engineering and math) academic building.
ERAU Chancellor Frank Ayers publicly praised the Lees, “I can’t say enough how much we appreciate the support of Jim and Linda Lee. Over the years, they have given of their time, talent and treasure for our great scholar athletes, the campus Board of Visitors, and now, the planetarium.”
Originally from Texas but Arizona residents for several decades, the Lees recently told Prescott Living Magazine, “the future of Prescott cannot be separated from the future of ERAU.” Over the years, the Lees have been instrumental in developing the Prescott Gateway Mall, the Ranch Residential area, and most recently, Touchmark at the Ranch adult retirement resort.
Information about the planetarium and its programs is available on line at EDELMAN@erau.edu or frahera@erau.edu.
