Courtesy photo
PEEC News:
The Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC) invites community members, space enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages to embark on a journey across our cosmic neighborhood at Strange New Worlds: NASA’s Exploration of the Solar System, a special planetarium presentation from 7-8 p.m. MT, Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.
From the icy shadows of Mercury’s poles to the dynamic, slushy terrain of Pluto, NASA’s robotic explorers have transformed our understanding of the solar system over the past decade. This engaging program will highlight some of the most remarkable discoveries made by spacecraft missions and preview the big questions scientists hope to answer in the years ahead. Attendees will travel virtually to the Moon’s south pole, explore the promise of the upcoming Europa Clipper mission, and encounter the diverse planets, moons, and debris that make up our solar system.
The presentation is designed to inspire learners of all ages, though planetarium programs are generally not recommended for children under 5.
Event Details
- Nature Center Doors Open: 6:45 p.m.
- Admission:
- $6 Child
- $8 Adult
- $20 Family
About the Presenter
Christine Shupla, Science Engagement Manager at the Lunar and Planetary Institute, brings more than 20 years of experience in planetary science education and 15 years in planetarium programming. She leads a team dedicated to supporting early‐career planetary researchers and strengthening STEM engagement among scientists and educators. Shupla holds a Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She currently works remotely from Santa Clara Pueblo, NM.
For more information, visit PEEC’s website at peecnature.org/events. Stay connected on social media for updates on each week’s activities.
PEEC was founded in 2000 to serve the community of Los Alamos. It offers people of all ages a way to enrich their lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies. PEEC operates the Los Alamos Nature Center at 2600 Canyon Road, holds regular programs and events, and hosts several interest groups, from birding to hiking to butterfly watching. PEEC activities are open to everyone; however, members receive exclusive benefits such as discounts on programs and gift shop merchandise. Annual memberships start at $35. To learn more, visit peecnature.org/support/membership/.