Super Stellar Fridays
On the 1st Friday of the month, enjoy an evening exploring science with Discovery Center educators and special guest speakers through live programs, planetarium shows, and sky viewing with the NH Astronomical Society.
1776 in Starlight: A Cosmic Celebration of America at 250
Next Super Stellar Friday - Friday, July 3rd, 2026
Presentation Description: As our nation approaches the 250th anniversary of its independence, communities across the country are finding unique ways to celebrate this historic milestone. From individuals and schools to businesses and municipalities, everyone is joining in the commemoration.
This year, the Belmont High School Astronomy Club is contributing a truly cosmic perspective to the celebration. Consider this: there are stars located approximately 250 light-years from Earth. The light reaching our eyes from those stars tonight began its journey around the time America declared its independence in 1776.
Club members have researched these remarkable stars and will present their discoveries on Independence Day Eve. Together, we'll explore the connection between our nation's history and the vast timeline of the universe, revealing how astronomy can offer a unique perspective on this significant anniversary.
*Please note this presentation will occur in the planetarium theater
About our Special Guest Presenter: Dave McDonald, M.Ed., has been passionate about space since he was in middle school. Dave has previously been the Director of Education at the Discovery Center for 10 years. He has instructed astronomy classes at Granite State College, NHTI, Plymouth State University Graduate School, and currently at Belmont High School. Dave brings a wealth of knowledge in an understandable way with his lighthearted approach to exploring space science.
Recommended for all ages.
Please note before purchasing your Super Stellar Friday tickets:
Ticket costs include admission to the presentation, and exhibit galleries. Planetarium show tickets are an extra $7 for non-members. Tickets for this event can be purchased at the front desk on the night or before the event online.
Schedule (Times May Vary)
6:30 pm: Discovery Center opens, exhibit galleries available for exploration
7:00 pm: Speaker Presentation
8:00 pm: Planetarium Show
9:00 pm: Sky Viewing with New Hampshire Astronomical Society (weather permitting)
Ticket Pricing
Adult: $14.00
Child (3-12): $11.00
Senior (62+): $13.00
Students (13-college): $13.00
EBT/SNAP/WIC Card Holders + Up To 5 Guests: $3.00 (Use code “4ALLSSF” at checkout!)
Children under 2: Free!
Optional Planetarium Show Add-On: $7 per ticket
Members: $5.00 (Admission, free planetarium show)
Can’t make it in person?
Presentations will be available on the Discovery Center’s YouTube channel within a few days. Please consider making a donation to support future programming like this—thank you!