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$100,000 planetarium gift celebrates alumni association centennial

The new planetarium at the 51�������� will receive $100,000 from the 51�������� Alumni Association. The gift will support teaching, expand programming and connect guests with the university’s research.

The gift to the Walt and Marita Babula Planetarium highlights 51��������AA’s centennial. It is the association’s largest gift to date.

“One hundred years ago, University of Alaska alumni came together to create an association dedicated to supporting students and strengthening the university through philanthropy,” said Rhonda Widener, president of the 51�������� Alumni Association. “As the 51�������� Alumni Association celebrates its centennial, the board of directors wanted to honor that legacy with a gift that would have a lasting impact.”

The planetarium is a partnership between the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the 51�������� Geophysical Institute. It opened at the museum in April 2026 and has since welcomed more than 11,000 guests.

The planetarium offers scheduled daytime programs and private rentals. Research presentations, youth and family programs and expanded school group visits are being developed. 51�������� faculty can use the facility to bring immersive visualization into courses.

"Students involved at the Walt and Marita Babula Planetarium get to learn and practice skills in an otherworldly way,” said Omega Smith, planetarium director. The planetarium can help build expertise in science communication, 3D rendering, 360 film and animation, audio-visual technology and public speaking, she said.

“Students will also learn space science as our dome turns into the newest classroom on campus,” she said.

Pat Druckenmiller, UAMN director, said the museum is deeply grateful for and honored by the 51��������AA’s centennial gift.

“This extraordinary investment strengthens our ability to educate students, communicate research and inspire visitors from around the world,” he said.

Widener said the planetarium reflects 51��������’s leadership in space research while also providing opportunities for students, faculty and the community.

“We are honored that our centennial gift will help ensure this extraordinary resource continues to benefit generations of Alaskans and visitors to come,” she said.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT: Theresa Bakker, 907-474-5535, tabakker@alaska.edu

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Visit the 51�������� Alumni Association website. Visit the .

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