STARLAB is a portable planetarium, with an inflatable dome capable of accommodating about 25 people. Inside the dome, a cylinder projector displays the night sky devoid of any light pollution; imagine taking a journey from the South Pole to the Equator and on to the North Pole. See the sky as it looks right now in West Virginia as well as at the far end of the Australian outback. Observe the Milky Way, Earth's home galaxy is one of billions in the observable universe and study it's Solar System. Take a look deep beneath the Earth's crust to see the tectonic plates; study causes and effects of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Use STARLAB as an informative vehicle for exploring different cultures. See the sky through the eyes of ancient Egyptians and Greeks; learn the legends of ancient China and Africa; see America through the eyes of its first inhabitants by studying the tales of Native Americans and European settlers.
Bring the night sky inside!
Schools: Offer your students an exciting way to learn astronomy, study the changing of the seasons, explore how elements of the universe have been used as themes in music, literature, folklore, humanities, mythology and the arts with a Starlab program.
Clubs/Organizations: Want a new and exciting topic for your next meeting? A great team building activity? Starlab is much smaller and more intimate than permanent planetariums. Its setting encourages participants to ask questions, actively explore a problem, test theories, and perform hands-on activities.
StarLab is presented with financial assistance by:
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
There are many options for how to use the STARLAB: 1-2 hour sessions; up to 5 30-40 minute sessions in a day; half day intensives; and mini-residencies. Carnegie Hall can tailor the program to best meet your objectives.
Logistics:
STARLAB is 12feet high and 25feet in diameter. It must be used indoors, in a climate controlled area, with enough space to provide sufficient clearance.
STARLAB requires electrical access to 2 grounded, 3-prong plugs.
STARLAB is not sound-proof; try to select a relatively quiet area.
Carnegie Hall has several spaces which are conducive to STARLAB presentations.
A trained STARLAB facilitator must conduct presentations. If your school or organization does not have a trained instructor, a facilitator is available to travel with STARLAB at the rate of $20 per hour, plus mileage at 35¢ per mile, in addition to rental fee/s for the STARLAB equipment. Contact Carnegie Hall for a quote for facilitator services outside of school programs, at 304-645-7917, or by email at info@carnegiehallwv.com
RENTAL RATES
First Day - $50
Second Day - $75
Third Day - $100
Fourth Day - $125
Five Days - $150
Please make every attempt to schedule a STARLAB rental at least 2 weeks prior to the event date. STARLAB may be reserved with a school purchase order or with a major credit card (VISA or M/C). A non-refundable deposit of $25 will be charged at the time of reservation and can be applied toward any applicable fees.