Learn about planets, optics, telescopes, physics, robotics, space travel, nanotechnology and more at Astronomy Day, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. April 20 at the University of Nebraska State Museum of Natural History in Morrill Hall, south of 14th and Vine streets.

Visitors will get a chance to win a telescope, binoculars and other prizes, watch educational laser shows and participate in activities about space and science. Regular museum admission will be required;members are free.

During the day, Mueller Planetarium will present Lasers in Astronomy,which explores how state-of-the-art laser technology is helping astronomers better understand the universe. Show times: 11 a.m., noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m., withadditional Sunday showings at 2 and 3 p.m.

Astronomy Day concludes with a free "star party" between 8 and 11 p.m. at Hyde Memorial Observatory on the south edge of Holmes Lake Park.

Founded in 1973, the national celebration started by the Astronomical League promotes awareness of amateur and professional astronomy.

More, http://www.spacelaser.com/ADay2013.html.

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Mueller Planetarium to celebrate Astronomy Day