J. Frederick Ching Planetarium

Hartnell College, 411 Central Avenue
Salinas, CA 93901

831-755-6913

The J. Frederic Ching Planetarium has been enchanting audiences with the wonders of astronomy and space science since its original construction in 1962. A renovated and updated facility reopened in 2005, ushering in a new digital era for Hartnell's planetarium with the Konica Minolta Mediaglobe projection system. Our facility offers public programs, support to Hartnell's astronomy classes, and hosts thousands of visiting elementary school students from Monterey County and beyond each year. Apart from showing the night sky and its countless stars across a thirty foot diamter dome, modern immersive imagery can transport planetarium visitors through space and into many other astonishing virtual worlds of scientific discovery.

Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors.
Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide

AARP Events for Salinas

View All AARP Events

image of two AARP membership cards
Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal
  • Immediate access to your member benefits
  • Discounts on travel and everyday savings
  • Subscription to AARP The Magazine
  • FREE second membership
Join AARP
Already a member? Renew or Print Card

Contact AARP
California