Paulucci Space Theater

History

The Paulucci Space Theatre opened in 1980 as a state-of-the-art planetarium. The facility featured a Spitz 512 star projector, 20 computer controlled slide projectors for multi-media shows, and many other special effects projectors. In 1985, a 35 mm wide screen movie projector was installed, to be replaced ten years later with an 8-70 mm system. Throughout the years, thousands of people were able to enjoy countless multi-media shows, star lectures, and the same wide screen movies shown at Omnimax theaters across the country.

Over the last 20 years, of course, film has gradually disappeared to be replaced with our modern digital world. This rendered most of the capabilities of the Paulucci Space Theatre obsolete. In fact, the only projection system to survive from its opening is the Spitz star projector. In 2020, the Paulucci Space Theatre underwent a complete remodel. Gone are all of the old slide projectors and movie projector. They have been replaced by a 4K digital full dome projector loaded with dozens of new shows! The sound system has also been upgraded, the cove lighting replaced, and the lobby has been completely redesigned with updated art work and furniture.

Show Schedule

Show times are Wednesdays and Fridays at 7 pm and Saturday at 2 pm. The show will run through January 4. No shows on Christmas and New Years day.

Mystery of the Christmas Star

Journey back over 2000 years to Bethlehem as we seek to discover a scientific explanation for the star the wise men followed to find the baby Jesus. This modern retelling of the Christmas story is sure to charm and captivate audiences of all ages.

Ticket prices:
Adult (13+): $5
Child (ages 5-12): $3
4 and under: Free

The Planetarium also has a wide variety of school shows available. Teachers can contact us at pst@minnesotanorth.edu for a list.

Theater Rentals

Individual Rental

Rent the theater for birthday parties, groups, fundraisers, family gatherings.

There is a minimum charge of $75 for a 2 hour rental; each additional hour is $30.

Business Rental

Is your business looking for a unique venue for a get-together? Why not rent the Paulucci Space Theatre? Our lobby is the perfect spot to set-up a sampling of hors d’oeuvres or other light fare (we are not set-up for a sit-down dinner). Your group can then move into the theater to view any of our full dome shows, take a tour of the universe using OpenSpace, watch a current night sky show or you may wish to bring in a DVD or Blue-ray to play on the big screen.

The cost is $150/hour with a minimum of two hours.

*It is your responsibility for set-up before and clean-up after.

To make a reservation, call 218-403-9204 or email us at pst@minnesotanorth.edu