When
Science at Sunset: The Science Behind Project Hail Mary
(SOLD OUT) Science at Sunset: The Science Behind Project Hail Mary
Saturday, June 20, 2026
1601 E University Blvd.
6:00PM to 9:00PM
Join Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium for an immersive evening exploring the real science behind the hit movie Project Hail Mary. Take a seat in the planetarium for a conversation with Steve Kortenkamp, an astronomer and educator at the University of Arizona’s Lunar and Planetary Laboratory; Brittany Miles, a U of A astronomer whose research explores exoplanets and worlds beyond our solar system; and Sukrit Ranjan, a U of A astrobiologist whose work investigates the origins of life and the habitability of planets. Together, they’ll examine what’s scientifically possible, what’s pure fiction, and what may fall somewhere in between. The evening will also include access to science exhibits, a screening of the planetarium show Dark Biosphere, and telescope stargazing (weather permitting). More details below.
Images: MGM Pictures
Meet the Panel
Steve Kortenkamp
Steve Kortenkamp is a Professor of Practice in the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory. His work focuses on planetary science, planet formation, and astronomy education, including the development of innovative learning tools that make astronomy accessible to blind and visually impaired students.
Brittany Miles
Brittany Miles is an astronomer at the University of Arizona whose research focuses on exoplanets, brown dwarfs, and planetary atmospheres. She uses data from leading observatories, including the James Webb Space Telescope, to better understand worlds beyond our solar system.
Sukrit Ranjan
Sukrit Ranjan is an assistant professor in the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory and Department of Astronomy. An astrobiologist and planetary scientist, his research explores the origins of life on Earth and how scientists might detect life on planets orbiting other stars
Event Schedule
Science Exhibit Exploration
6PM to 9PM
Mysteries of the Cosmos: Life in Our Universe (New)
Universe of Science
Undersea Discovery
and many more of our current science exhibits
Panel Discussion
6:30PM
Our panel will be presenting their thoughts and answering your questions on several factors of the film including space travel and extreme forms of life.
"Dark Biosphere" Screenings
7:30PM or 8:15PM (you pick!)
Return to the planetarium theater at one of the times above to see Flandrau's newest fulldome film! Dark Biosphere explores the vast, hidden ecosystems thriving deep beneath the Earth’s crust. It challenges our understanding of biology by revealing how microbes survive in extreme conditions.
Telescopes
7:30~ to 9PM
Join our staff outside to peer at points of interest in the night sky.
(SOLD OUT) All-inclusive ticket - $18
$12 for Flandrau members!
Your all-inclusive ticket includes:
- Planetarium talk: A special discussion with our featured speakers
- Planetarium show: Dark Biosphere
- Exhibit access: Explore all of Flandrau’s science exhibits, including the new Mysteries of the Cosmos: Life in the Universe
- Telescope stargazing: Enjoy guided stargazing after sunset (weather permitting)
amaze amaze amaze!
Thank yoU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN SELLING OUT THIS EVENT.
Check out our next event, an astronomy lecture & music concert!