Yoga in the Planetarium

“It was such a cool experience! [The instructor’s] voice was so steady and soothing. I really enjoyed the way each movement was thoughtfully described and the tidbits of planetary knowledge peppered throughout! I had never done a moon salutation before and felt strong/graceful working through the sequence with [the] comforting guidance.”

Connect with the universe through accessible Vinyasa yoga at the Brown Planetarium, where people of all experience levels can move under the stars during an astronomy-themed practice. These experiences are open to everyone, ages 12 and over, with registration and a signed waiver.


Register for a Public Planetarium Yoga Experience

Reserve for a Private Experience

General Info
  • Planetarium yoga experiences are open to everyone age 12 and over. For children 12-17 years old, two signatures are required by legal guardians. Children must be accompanied by a supervising adult on site. The supervising adult does not need to register for the session unless they wish to participate.
  • Pre-registration and signed waivers are required. Waivers will be provided in advance and at the door.
  • Due to the dark nature of the planetarium, no late entry is permitted after start time.
  • Doors open at least 15 minutes prior to each session.
  • Sessions last approximately 60 minutes.
  • You are invited to bring your own mat as only a limited number will be made available. Water is permitted in spill-proof containers. You may bring your favorite props such as blocks or straps, and a towel if you tend to get sweaty during practices.
  • Daytime parking information is located under the FAQ tab.

What is planetarium yoga like?

Yoga at the Brown Planetarium offers all the benefits of a traditional class, enhanced by a breathtaking star-filled environment. You will also hear tidbits about the science behind the visuals and how they connect with the yoga practice throughout the class.

Do I need to register ahead of time?

Pre-registration is required for all planetarium yoga experiences. Spots are limited and classes are popular, so register early. Day-of registration may be possible if spots are still available.

If I arrive late, can I still join the experience?

No. The planetarium is dimly lit, so for your safety and for the consideration of others, we do not accept late entry into classes after start times.

What do I need to bring/wear?

Yourself; a yoga mat (unless you request one on your registration form); a spill-proof water bottle; any props you may want such as blocks or straps; and a towel if you tend to get sweaty during practices. Wear comfortable, breathable clothes you can move in, and please avoid strong scents out of respect for those around you.

What should I do when I arrive?

Aim to arrive 5-15 minutes early so you can meet the instructor, sign your waiver, and get settled before class begins. By arriving early, you will be able to set any belongings on the planetarium theater seats (bags, jackets, etc.), remove your shoes, and settle onto your mat with any props and water.

Do you have a cancellation or refund policy?

At this time, no refunds will be made unless class is cancelled. Please know that we understand that the unexpected can happen and so if something comes up, contact us at least 24 hours prior to class time with any cancellations and we will see what we can do. If you have to cancel last minute, please try and let us know so we can open your spot up to someone else.

Accessibility Notes:

  • The planetarium is fully ADA accessible with barrier-free entry.
  • Multiple pose variations are offered to accommodate different needs and abilities within the class.
  • Support from a nearby wall or chair may be available; however, please note that this is not a chair yoga class.
  • The planetarium environment features low lighting with immersive domed visuals; no strobes or moving images are used during yoga events.
  • This is an intimate event with a maximum of approximately 12 participants to ensure personalized attention and space. 

Where is the planetarium and where should I park?

The Charles W. Brown Planetarium at Ball State University is on the west end of the Cooper Science Complex, located along Riverside Avenue at:

2111 W. Riverside Ave.
Cooper Science Complex
Ball State University
Muncie, IN 47306

Daytime University parking is located at: MCKINLEY AVENUE PARKING GARAGE, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306. You must pay at the beginning of your stay in the parking garage. Spaces designated for visitors with disabilities are located near the entrances/exits of the parking garage.

RIVERSIDE AVENUE METERED PARKING is a closer option, just west of the planetarium. This parking is not managed by Ball State University and there are no spaces designated for visitors with disabilities.

If you need closer parking, you may request a free permit for one of two parking spaces reserved for the planetarium in lot R11 when registering for the event. Permits may be reserved ahead of time or they will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis the day of the event.

  • Please set cell phones to silent or off so everyone can enjoy a peaceful, present practice. Photos can be taken after class!
  • To maintain a calm and focused space, no late entry is permitted. If you're new or still finding your rhythm, we recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early.
  • Consider early arrival part of your yoga practice. Give yourself time to check in and center yourself before we begin.
  • Classes are guided by the teacher, but every pose is an invitation, not a requirement. You're encouraged to explore variations that suit your body, while staying connected to the rhythm and energy of the group.
  • Treat fellow students and staff with care, compassion, and non-judgment. Practices are designed in a way that no one should touch or be touched by others. While we may be in close proximity to each other on our mats, please be respectful of everyone’s personal space. Additionally, please refrain from giving advice or corrections to others unless it’s asked for.
  • Savasana, or the final rest, is a vital part of the yoga practice. If you absolutely must leave early, please aim to set up near an exit, and step out quietly before Savasana begins.
  • At the end of class, please tidy your space. If you borrowed a mat, you may leave it laid out for staff to sanitize and put away for you.

I'm Dayna Thompson, planetarium director at the Brown Planetarium and a certified 200-hour yoga teacher with a deep passion for both the cosmos and the practice of yoga. I strive to make both astronomy and yoga accessible, welcoming, and empowering for everyone.

Whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time or continuing a long-standing practice, there's space for you at planetarium yoga—to move, to breathe, and to reconnect with yourself beneath the stars.

My goal is to support your journey toward strength, awareness, and presence, while we draw inspiration from the vastness of the universe. Because just like the cosmos, there’s always room within ourselves to grow—and infinite possibilities to discover.