When
Science at Sunset: Songs of Starlight
Friday, July 10 & Saturday, July 11, 2026
1601 E University Blvd.
6:00PM to 10:00PM
📢Back for two nights by popular demand! Last year's presentation sold out quickly
Experience the updated return of this special program, Science at Sunset: Songs of Starlight, a special evening of music, astronomy, and stargazing at Flandrau. The night begins with "You Were Light", a live planetarium performance blending science storytelling by University of Arizona Astronomy Professor Kevin Hainline with original music by Tucson musician Lara Ruggles, tracing the cosmic journey of your atoms from the Big Bang to today. Then, enjoy a stunning planetarium film followed by telescope viewing on the UA Mall and hands-on science exhibits throughout the evening. One unforgettable night, only at Flandrau.
Event Schedule
6:00PM - Science Center Opens
Check in and grab your seat
Visit the front desk to get your tickets or redeem the ones you purchased online.
Please note doors will not open before 5:30PM.
Access to these exhibits is included with your ticket:
- Mysteries of the Cosmos (New!)
- Universe of Science
- Wild World of Bugs
- Undersea Discovery
- Sharks: Magnificent & Misunderstood
- Fossil Corner
- Destination Mars
6:30PM - You Were Light (planetarium presentation)
Join University of Arizona Astronomy Professor Kevin Hainline and Tucson musician Lara Ruggles for a unique, one-night-only planetarium show that combines science and music to show the audience the journey their atoms took from the Big Bang to today. Come and learn about our place in the Universe, the birth of structure, the earliest galaxies, black holes, star birth and death, and the slow and beautiful way you were put together. You’ve never experienced anything like this at Flandrau - a show that’s a concert, a science lecture, and a reminder of our shared cosmic origins.
7:45PM or 8:45PM - Planetarium Show: "One Sky"
Return to the planetarium at one of times above to see "One Sky"
Travel across cultures and continents through the stories people have told about the night sky for thousands of years. This award-winning fulldome experience explores Indigenous and traditional astronomical knowledge from around the world, revealing how humanity's shared connection to the stars has shaped navigation, storytelling, science, and our understanding of the universe.
8:00PM - 10:00PM - Telescopes on the UA Mall
Observe with us!
As long as weather cooperates, Flandrau staff will be working the telescopes aiming at points of interest in the night sky to share with event-goers.
About Kevin Hainline
Dr. Kevin Hainline is an astronomer and science communicator who specializes in extragalactic astronomy and the study of supermassive black holes. He currently serves as an Associate Research Professor at the University of Arizona's Steward Observatory and has worked extensively with NASA missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope. Passionate about public outreach, Dr. Hainline is known for making complex astronomical concepts accessible and engaging for all audiences.
About Laura Ruggles
Lara Ruggles is a singer-songwriter based in Tucson, Arizona, known for her emotionally honest songwriting and dynamic blend of folk, rock, and piano-driven melodies. Raised on a secluded ranch outside Tucson, her early experiences shaped a lyrical style that explores themes of vulnerability, resilience, and self-discovery. Ruggles has also performed under the electro-pop moniker Sharkk Heartt, showcasing her versatility as an artist while continuing to center storytelling and authenticity in her music.
All-inclusive ticket - $18
$12 for Flandrau members!
Your all-inclusive ticket includes:
- Planetarium presentation/performance: Blend of science and music with Kevin Hainline and Laura Ruggles
- Planetarium show: TBA
- Exhibit access: Explore all of Flandrau’s science exhibits, including the new Universe of Science
- Telescope stargazing: Enjoy guided stargazing after sunset (weather permitting)