Published: July 17, 2008 12:04 pm         

Sudekum Planetarium opens

Following the grand opening of Adventure Science Center’s all new Sudekum Planetarium and Space Chase exhibit wing, the center is now focused on meeting a $400,000 Challenge Grant from the Kresge Foundation and completing its final stages of fundraising.

The grant, given on a challenge basis, will be awarded to Adventure Science Center upon the raising of the final $1.3 million of its $21.4 million capital campaign. The funds will allow the center to complete the second phase of the Space Chase exhibit wing, installing three major exhibits on the second floor.

“We feel very confident that we can raise these needed funds, and then some, to complete this amazing exhibit hall,” said Susan Duvenhage, president of Adventure Science Center. “Together, the new Sudekum Planetarium and Space Chase wing will change the educational landscape throughout our region.

Fortunately, the Middle Tennessee community has been very supportive throughout this project and understands the colossal impact this first-class educational facility will make.”

Construction for multi-million dollar project began in January 2007. The first phase, which includes the Sudekum Planetarium and first floor exhibits in Space Chase, opened to the public June 28, 2008.  Nearly 3,500 visitors attended the grand opening weekend, where they marveled at the planetarium’s full-dome digital projection system and delighted in hands-on, interactive exhibits which demonstrate what it is like to work in space or provide a tour of the solar system.

The Kresge Foundation is a private nonprofit, established by Sebastian S. Kresge, which supports communities by building the capacity of nonprofit organizations. The Challenge Grant Program is the Foundation’s primary grantmaking tool and is awarded to nonprofit organizations that are working to address pressing issues within six specific fields. These fields include health, environment, arts and culture, education, human services and community development.

“We are pleased to support Adventure Science Center and applaud their efforts to build paths of opportunity within the community,” said Rip Rapson, president of Kresge Foundation. “Ensuring the health and vitality of nonprofit organizations is central to building strong, vibrant communities. The Kresge Foundation is committed to supporting nonprofit organizations, like Adventure Science Center, that share our community outreach goals.”

To learn more about Kresge Foundation, please visit www.kresge.org. To learn more about Adventure Science Center, and to make a donation to the new Sudekum Planetarium and Space Chase exhibit wing, please call (615) 401-5067 or visit www.adventuresci.com.

For 60 years, Adventure Science Center has brought science to life for children in Middle Tennessee, Southern Kentucky,Northern Alabama and beyond.

The center offers hands-on, interactive exhibits and engaging programs that encourage visitors of all ages to explore how science, invention and innovation affect their lives. Adventure Science Center encourages imagination and curiosity, and engages the senses in the fascinating world of science. Adventure Science Center is located at 800 Fort Negley Boulevard. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $11 for adults; and $9 for children ages 3 to 12, and seniors 62 and older. For more information, call (615) 862-5160 or visit their Web site at www.adventuresci.com.