Ocean county college planetarium will install six space-related exhibits that enable people of all ages to engage in experiential learning activities that enhance knowledge and align with the…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded Ocean County College $148,080 on September 1, 2026, under the Museums for America program (CFDA 45.301) to install six space-related exhibits at the Ocean County College Planetarium in Toms River, New Jersey.

The planetarium will acquire and install the exhibits, create a Launch Lab space, develop curriculum and interpretive displays, and conduct educator training. The project director will attend regional and national conferences to disseminate findings to small and large museums and planetariums. The work is designed to enable experiential STEM learning for K-12 and college students as well as the general public and to position the planetarium as a regional science center hub. Project activities include evaluation of outcomes.

Performance runs through August 31, 2028.

Ocean county college planetarium will install six space-related exhibits that enable people of all ages to engage in experiential learning activities that enhance knowledge and align with the planetarium's plans to become a science center hub for the region. Project activities include purchasing the new exhibits, installing them, creating the launch lab space, and developing curriculum and interpretive displays for the new offerings. The project also includes evaluation and educator training. The project director will attend both regional and national conferences to disseminate the project's work with other small and large museums and planetariums. The project will benefit k-12 and college students, as well as the broader public, to engage in stem learning and stem careers.