First Friday
19th Century Astronomy in Ann Arbor
Friday, November 6, 2026 | 6 p.m. at Longway Planetarium
The 19th century was an incredible time for discovery. Telescopes were getting bigger and so was the Solar System. Seven planets turned into hundreds. After it was founded in 1854, the U-M Detroit Observatory in Ann Arbor quickly became one of the most important places to learn and practice this exciting science. Explore the observatory’s history with the Frankel Detroit Observatory’s Assistant Director for Astronomy, Austin Edmister, in this live presentation.
This month's First Friday lecture is FREE; courtesy of our generous sponsor and planetarium supporter. Tickets can be reserved in person at Guest Services; tickets reserved online will incur a $2 processing fee.
Single Show Ticket Prices
All Longway Planetarium shows are 50% off for Genesee County residents.
Pricing For Genesee County Residents:
Adults:$5.00
Seniors 60+: $4.00
Children ages 2-11: $4.00
Children 0-2: Free
Please present your driver license or ID with address on it when you arrive to confirm your residency.
(Longway Planetarium shows are funded, in part, by the Genesee County Arts Education and Cultural Enrichment Millage. Your tax dollars are at work!)
Adults 12-59: $10.00
Seniors 60+: $8.00
Children 2-11: $8.00
Children under 2: FREE
Members of Sloan Longway get FREE admission to all Longway Planetarium shows.
Please log in with your member ID when you purchase your tickets. Your discounts will automatically be applied at checkout. Please note that there will be a $2.00 online processing fee when you purchase any tickets online.
Not a member? Find out how to become a Member and start SAVING!
Please present your membership card and driver license or ID when you arrive
Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) Members:
FREE general admission
Flint Children’s Museum Members:
$1 off per ticket for general admission
Impression 5 and Ann Arbor Hands-On members:
50% off general admission
Military Veterans & Teachers:
FREE general admission for the individual (*Does not apply to families)
Active Military Members + Family:
FREE general admission for active military personnel & immediate family members
Please present proof of status to receive discounts. I.E., member card, veteran ID, active military ID, or staff ID
Add a same-day visit to Sloan Museum and SAVE!
Out-of-county guests can make it a full day of discovery with our combo-ticket pricing! Add admission to the Sloan Museum of Discovery across the street and SAVE! Genesee County residents receive FREE general admission to Sloan Museum.
Adults 12-59: $21.00
Seniors 60+: $16.00
Students (with I.D.): $16.00
Children 2-11: $14.00
Children under 2: Free
