Clark Planetarium expands sensory friendly experience

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Clark Planetarium announced that it will be expanding its Sensory Friendly Saturdays program in an effort to provide more accessibility.

The experience, which was offered only on the first Saturday of each month, will now be available every Saturday. Beginning on May 31, the event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

According to a press release from the planetarium, Sensory Friendly Saturdays look to provide a welcoming environment for guests with sensory sensitivities. During these hours, the planetarium will adjust the lighting and sound levels in its free exhibit areas, as well as in the Hansen Dome and Northrop Grumman IMAX theatres.

There are also sensory support items, such as noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, weighted blankets, needs charts, magnifying glasses, and sensory objects available at the ticketing counter, upon request. The planetarium said these accommodations help create a calmer atmosphere.

In 2023, Clark Planetarium earned the Sensory Inclusive Certification through KultureCity, a nonprofit that promotes sensory accessibility and inclusion. The certification ensures that frontline staff are trained to recognize and support guests with sensory processing needs, and that proper accommodations are available.

“Our goal is to make space and science accessible to everyone,” said Duke Johnson, Director of Clark Planetarium. “By expanding Sensory Friendly Saturdays and maintaining our KultureCity certification, we’re reaffirming our commitment to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy what we have to offer.”