The Robert B. Oliver Planetarium is a 50-seat multi-media sky theater located in Roton Middle School, Norwalk.  Built in 1966 and named in honor of a former mayor of Norwalk, the Planetarium is one of only a dozen such facilities in Connecticut public schools.  Under the direction of Mr. R Mackenstein, the Planetarium is a valuable resource for the teaching of astronomy and related subjects in the the Norwalk school system as well as surrounding school districts.

Although located in the middle school, the Planetarium is available to all schools.  From pre-school to high school, the Planetarium offers programs designed to introduce, or reinforce concepts of astronomy (and geology) taught in the classroom.  The shows are tailored to the teacher's request, and they are performed live with questions during the show encouraged. For current programs, click on Programs.     

The Planetarium is ordinarily used during school hours.  However, when an unusual event occurs in the sky at night, the Planetarium will offer an evening program concerning the event for the entire school community.  Everyone (school administrators, teachers, families) then have the opportunity to see a show.  Past events involved the appearance of comets Hyakutake and Hale-Bopp, the Leonid Meteor Storm, and the planetary conjunction of May 5, 2000.  Planetarium telescopes are employed after the show if the sky is clear allowing participants views of the "real thing."  

All shows are reserved in advance.  Norwalk public school children have first priority; other shows are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.  A nominal fee is charged for groups outside the Norwalk school system.

To reserve a show, contact Mr. Mackenstein at:  
Roton Middle School
201 Highland Avenue
Norwalk, CT  06853