November 24, 2025 – The Macon County Conservation District has introduced a new presentation structure for their StarLab Planetarium programs, designed to bring immersive astronomy experiences directly to schools and other organizations. The StarLab was made possible thanks to support from a Heart of Illinois Community Foundation grant and additional funding from the Macon County Conservation Foundation.
The fully digital portable planetarium can accommodate 30-40 participants inside and allows audiences to explore a wide variety of topics that include planets, stars, constellations, the solar system, the moon, and much more.
Presentation pricing starts at $200, which includes set-up, takedown, two trained District staff members, and a presentation. The planetarium does need to be set up indoors and near a power outlet with at least 13-ft of vertical clearance (best for use in gymnasiums or multipurpose rooms with tall, vaulted ceilings) and a 25×25 sq. ft of open floor space.
Groups, programs and schools interested in hosting the StarLab, can contact Director of Program Services, Alysia Callison at 217-423-7708 or ACallison@MaconCCD.org
