Science and Satellites: Orbiting the Modern World
Schedule
Wed Apr 15 2026 at 07:00 pm to 08:15 pm
UTC-04:00Location
4501 Elkhorn Ave, Norfolk, VA, United States, Virginia 23529 | Norfolk, VA
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Science and Satellites: Orbiting the Modern WorldApril 15, 2026
6:30pm Doors open and tickets available
7:00-8:15pm Showtime
Tickets: $5
For the remainder of the spring semester, our Wednesday night shows are free to ODU students, faculty, and staff with an ODU ID.
This program explores the rapidly growing population of artificial satellites orbiting Earth, now numbering in the tens of thousands when including both active spacecraft and debris. Audiences will examine how satellites are launched, the types of fuels that make spaceflight possible, and how different orbital paths serve purposes ranging from communication & navigation to Earth observation and scientific research.
We’ll highlight the typical operational lifetimes of satellites and the challenges posed by orbital decay and space debris. Through a combination of real-world examples and visualizations, viewers will gain an understanding of how satellites have become essential infrastructure supporting modern society while also raising important questions about sustainability in Earth’s orbital environment.
Recommended Ages 6+
• Cash, credit, or debit accepted at the door.
• Doors open at approximately 6:30 pm.
• No early reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served.
• Open to the public! No affiliation with ODU is required to join the fun.
• Check our website’s Location & Parking section for more info: www.odu.edu/planetarium
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Where is it happening?
4501 Elkhorn Ave, Norfolk, VA, United States, Virginia 23529Event Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.











