Violent Universe premiers at Planetarium

In a dazzling display of sound and images, Texas A&M International University ushers in a new show at the planetarium entitled, Violent Universe: Catastrophes of the Cosmos. The show opened, Jan. 23 at 5 p.m. to an enthusiastic crowd which was followed by an encore performance at 6 p.m.

Violent Universe is not to be missed; the documentary explores the catastrophic events that could occur in the universe and those which have already been experienced on Earth.

Happenings such as the Tungaska Event and the possibility of such catastrophes occurring were explained. Collapsing stars, Earth-bound asteroids, and black holes are some of the deadly events that were also featured. The documentary was narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart, aka Professor Charles Xavier, from the X-Men films.

"Some of the things that we do talk about in this show are things that are actual possibilities of happening," described Gerardo Perez, director of the planetarium. Perez mentioned the close encounters with asteroids in the future and emphasized a need for public awareness of these intense circumstances.

"It was really, really exciting," said Alejandra Sandoval, a student at TAMIU, who was one of the first to watch the latest show. "There are some parts that are really intense but they're really nice the way the play them and show them," continued Sandoval.

Tickets are on sale at $6 and $5 for children, seniors, TAMIU faculty, students, and staff. They can be purchased one hour before each show.

A complete show schedule can be found at tamiu.edu/planetarium or call 326-DOME (3663).

For more information, contact Gerardo A. Perez, director, LBV Planetarium, at planetarium@tamiu.edu or call 326.2606.