The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH) will host Astro Fest, a day of special activities to celebrate astronomy, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, May 4.

The museum is offering space-themed activities for all ages, with support from partners UCSB Physics Circus, the Santa Barbara Astronomical Unit (SBAU), and the Central Coast’s Girl Scout Astronomy Club.

In addition to the regular schedule of shows in Gladwin Planetarium, SBMNH is expanding the hours of Palmer Observatory for the duration of the event.

Observatory visitors can safely view the sun through solar telescopes (weather permitting) and enjoy cosmic discussions with SBAU volunteers and SBMNH staff.

Fleischmann Auditorium will be full of astronomy and physics-themed craft and demonstration opportunities.

“We are excited to bring the cosmos a little closer with Astro Fest, an event full of celestial fun, hands-on exploration, and skyward inspiration,” said Ila Jade Komasa, SBMNH astronomy programs manager.

“This event strives to connect guests to the awe-inspiring scale of the universe, the curiosity that drives scientific discovery, and the joy of asking big questions. From young future astronauts to seasoned stargazers, there will be something for everyone at Astro Fest,” Komasa said.

Astro Fest is included with general admission; museum members attend for free.

Those hoping to attend a planetarium show are encouraged to line up in front of the planetarium 10 minutes in advance of each show. First come, first served. No late entry is granted.

The museum anticipates expanding its capacity to interpret astronomy even further this summer, with the public reopening of its updated Space Sciences exhibits on July 12.

Museum members can preview the exhibit during the Members’ Party on July 11. Visit sbnature.org/astronomy for more.