Khan Planetarium
The Elizabeth City State University Khan Planetarium's DigiStar Theater is unique in North Carolina and the Tidewater region. The 60-seat DigiStar 6 equipped Khan Planetarium provides excellent educational (& entertaining) resources for the entire region. Students in classes at ECSU benefit from the DigiStar Theater through visualization & fostering an understanding of STEM related concepts and associated educational subjects. For the region's educators, the Khan Planetarium serves as an invaluable educational resource to facilitate and augment existing STEM project to the surrounding 21-counties primary & secondary school systems, as well as the general public.
The Star Theater provides complete 180º x 360º real-time digital video delivery using stunning graphics & audio on a thirty foot dome screen using North Carolina's only DigiStar 6 high resolution multi-media projection system combined with surround sound audio. The newly installed DigiStar 6 projection system includes a built-in cloud capability that allows for the system to connect to other DigiStar system's science data repositories around the planet. This capability will ensure that there is always something new and interesting to experience at Elizabeth City State University’s Khan Planetarium. The DigiStar 6 system can also "push" out shows to available remote locations (such as classrooms) as well.
Hours of Operation
With the exception of University closings, the Khan Planetarium is open year-round to the public. The Planetarium operates during regular business hours, Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. A limited number of evening and shows are offered during special occasions (e.g, Feature Presentations, University Open House, etc.).
All shows are FREE and by RESERVATION ONLY.
There are several ways to schedule your visit to ECSU.
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- You may call 252-335-3SKY (252-335-3759).
- You can also email Khan Planetarium Director James Reynolds: jmreynolds@ecsu.edu
Groups of 20 or more may schedule their own show. Individuals and Groups with Less than 20 may join a group that is already schedule (space permitting).
Groups should arrive at the Planetarium 15 minutes prior to their show's scheduled time. Groups or individuals who arrive late may not be admitted. If your group is running late or must cancel, we kindly request that you or your organization/school notify us in advance.
The planetarium is inclusive, and welcomes all guests. If a member of your group has special needs requirements, please let us know so we can make appropriate accommodations. An ASL interpreter is available with advance notice.
From Charlotte , NC
I-85 N. to I-40 E. to US 64 E. to US 17 N.
(Approx. 324 miles)
From Raleigh , NC
I-64 E. to US 17 N.
(Approx. 162 miles)
From Virginia Beach
Norfolk Airport
I-64 E. to US 17 S.
(Approx. 52 miles)
From Washington D.C.
I-395 S. to I-95 S. Take I-64 E. to US 17 S.
(Approx. 252 miles)
- All visitors to the ECSU campus must obtain a visitor's pass.
- Vehicles without a visitor's pass are subject to ticketing and/or towing.
- Visitors to the Planetarium may obtain a parking pass either from Campus Police (Thomas-Jenkins Building) or from Planetarium Personnel.
- Visitors may park in Lot E located near the Wellness Center and the Jenkins Science Building. After dropping off teachers and students, school buses must park near the Roebuck Stadium located on Herrington St. across from Hoffler St.
The Khan Planetarium follows Elizabeth City State University's Inclement Weather Policy. You can find inclement weather announcements by calling ECSU Information at (252) 335-3400. We will also post the information on this Web site and our SKY line (provided above). In the event of inclement weather, the Khan Planetarium will be happy to reschedule your field trip at a later date.
Can't come to us? We'll come to you!
If traveling to Elizabeth City isn’t an option, consider bringing the ECSU portable planetarium to your location! We have a “StarLab” portable planetarium & can schedule a visit to your location. Our on-site team has the tools to meet current Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) with starry Night and Layered Earth software as part of our portable planetarium visit to your school or institution!
James Reynolds
Planetarium Educator
406 Jenkins Science Building
Campus Box 845
jmreynolds@ecsu.edu