Breathtaking visuals and an amazing story of our planet, solar system, and galaxy lie in store for you at the Encounters in the Milky Way. The best part about the story? It’s all true. Go on a journey across time and space in mere minutes as you watch the Hayden Planetarium Space Show.

How to visit the Hayden Planetarium Space Show at AMNH

Rose Center for Earth and Space exterior with glass facade in New York City.

Location: Floor 1, Hayden Planetarium

The Hayden Planetarium Space Show takes place on the first floor of the Hayden Sphere inside the Rose Center for Earth and Space. Encounters in the Milky Way is the current show that runs every 30 minutes at the Hayden Planetarium. Tickets to the show are not included with your General Admission entry, so you will need to buy an additional special exhibit pass to view the film. Additionally, you can also purchase the General Admission + 1 Ticketed Exhibit and select the Space Show as the ticketed exhibit of your choice to view Encounters in the Milky Way.

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American Museum of Natural History Tickets + 1 Ticketed Exhibition

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American Museum of Natural History Tickets

Extended validity

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

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Check availability

Things to know before booking your tickets for the Hayden Planetarium Space Show

The Space Show can only be viewed with a special exhibit ticket, but you can purchase the General Admission + 1 Ticketed Exhibition and select the Space Show to watch Encounters in the Milky Way.
The show runs every 30 minutes, but it requires prior reservations. It is a timed entry experience, and you can book your desired time slot at the entrance while making the selection for the special exhibit of your choice.
If you wish to reschedule your slot to another day, you will have to purchase another General Admission ticket to the Museum to be able to view the Space Show.
Encounters in the Milky Way also has captioning devices and audio description devices available for those who require additional aid. You can ask a staff member at the Planetarium for assistance if needed.

Encounters in the Milky Way | Science, technology, art, and the cosmos

While Pedro Pascal's narration could be reason enough to watch this masterpiece, here are some more things that make this Space Show something you cannot miss:

It’s created by using data that maps the positions, distances, and motions of close to 2 billion stars in our galaxy, precisely.
The team that created Encounters in the Milky Way includes astronomers, artists, and science visualization experts to give you an accurate visual treat.
You get to time travel as Gaia simulates the past, present, and future of the Milky Way.
Meet the Oort Cloud, learn what it is, and find out more about the “local bubble” we currently reside in.

Why you need to watch Encounters in the Milky Way at Hayden Planetarium

1/5

Audiovisual immersive show

The 360-degree viewing experience with the immersive audio system at the Hayden Planetarium makes Encounters in the Milky Way a completely immersive experience while you watch it.

Engaging learning experience about the galaxy

New data, research, and facts about our solar system and our neighbors in the Milky Way are displayed in a visually gripping way.

Suited for people of all ages

The show does not require any prior scientific knowledge to attend. Just a curious mind!

Researched and data-driven artistic showcase

A perfect blend of science, technology, and art.

Science made fun

Learn a little more about the universe and leave with a sense of intrigue and wonder about our solar system and galaxy.

About the Space Theater and Hayden Planetarium

American Museum of Natural History Hayden Planetarium

The Space Theater, housed within the Hayden Planetarium is where the Space Shows take place. Known for its powerful digital projection system and state-of-the-art surround sound, the theater transforms complex astronomical data into immersive, cinematic journeys through space and time. Whether you're exploring distant galaxies or witnessing the birth of stars, each Space Show taking place at the Space Theater takes you across the universe like never before, making it an essential stop for anyone curious about our place in the cosmos.

Learn more about Hayden Planetarium here.

Know before you go

American Museum of Natural History dinosaur skeleton exhibit, New York City.

Location: Floor 1, Hayden Planetarium, Rose Center for Earth and Space
Timings: 10:30am to 4:30pm
Duration: 24 minutes
Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Reservation required: Yes
Included with general admission: No
Accessibility: Hayden Planetarium is wheelchair accessible, and there are wheelchair seating areas with companion seats available in the Space Theater.

Frequently asked questions about the Hayden Planetarium Space Show at AMNH

Is the Space Show at the Planetarium a permanent exhibit?

No, the Hayden Planetarium Space Shows are rotating shows that change every few months. The current film, Encounters in the Milky Way, was released on June 9, 2025.

Can I re-enter on the same day with my ticket?

No, re-entry is not allowed. You will have to buy an additional ticket to view the Space Show if you want to watch it a second time on the same day.

Is Encounters in the Milky Way kid-friendly?

Yes! The film has an engaging visual narrative and is great for children who are interested in astronomy and science, or just want to watch something visually enticing.