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Lowell Observatory and The Orpheum presents I� Pluto: Road to Discovery: Pluto & Route 66 on Saturday, February 14th at the historic Orpheum Theater in downtown Flagstaff, AZ!ALL AGES | DOORS: 6PM | SHOW: 7PM | VIP: 5-6PM
More on the event:
Lowell Observatory presents a Night of Discovery, commemorating the anniversary of Clyde Tombaugh’s discovery of the icy world Pluto on February 18, 1930. This is the keynote event of the 7th Annual I Heart Pluto Festival. This year’s theme is Mother Road to the Stars, in recognition of the centennial of Route 66 and its Pluto heritage.
Meet Eminent Space Experts
Headlining this year’s event is a presentation that explores our past, present, and future understanding of one of the most storied and celebrated bodies in our solar system, Pluto.
Participants include:
Dr. Alan Stern, Principal Investigator of the New Horizons mission and astronaut Sr. Chad Trujillo, co-discoverer of the massive dwarf planet Eris, whose discovery led to the reclassification of Pluto 20 years ago. Andy Chaikin, award-winning science journalist and author of A Man on the Moon, the classic book about the apollo mission to the Moon and the basis of the Tom Hanks HBS miniseries From the earth to the Moon. Dave Eicher, Emeritus Editor in Chief of Astronomy magazine, will moderate the discussion.
Other presentations include:
Alice Bowman, Mission Operations Manager of the New Horizons Mission, will also be on hand to gift Lowell Observatory a scale model of the New Horizons spacecraft. Arizona State Representative Justin Wilmeth, who authored the bill recognizing Pluto as Arizona’s official state planet, will give an update about his efforts to establish a spaceport in Arizona. Christopher Fox Graham, Editor of the Sedona Red Rock News, will perform a poem he wrote about Route 66 and its space heritage. Kevin Schindler, Lowell Observatory Historian, will share the remarkable connection between Route 66 and Pluto. Books by some of the presenters, as well as commemorative posters and other items that may be signed by the presenters, will be available for purchase onsite.
Explore Space Art Displays
The International Astronomical Artists Association (IAAA) will display a variety of space-themed art throughout the Orpheum. The IAAA consists of artists and scientists-artists who implement and participate in astronomical and space art projects.
Try Your Hand at Axe Throwing
FlagTagAZ will set up their axe-throwing trailer in the Orpheum parking lot so guests of all ages can test their skill at this fun activity.
Quench Your Thirst with Pluto Beer
Back by popular demand is a Pluto-themed beer created specially for this event by Mother Road Brewing Company.
Admission
Regular admission gives guests access to all of these events. For those interested in a deluxe experience, consider the VIP option. This includes admission to all regular events, plus admission to a private reception with all the presenters, plus gift bag with Pluto and Route 66 goodies.
Schedule
5-6pm VIP reception
6-7pm Doors Open for Regular Admission
7-9pm Keynote Program
Why the Orpheum?
Why hold this event at the Orpheum Theatre? Because Clyde Tombaugh watched a movie here on the night of his great discovery in 1930. Plus, the Orpheum accessibility, comfort, and old-time charm, make it a perfect venue.
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The Orpheum Theater is a historic, indoor venue located on Aspen Street in downtown Flagstaff next to the Weatherford Hotel and Residence Inn.
* Parking is not available on site. Find info on street and garage parking here [https://orpheumflagstaff.com/getting-here/].
* Tickets are the same price at the box office and online
* A Full Bar is available at the venue
* No outside food and beverage is allowed. Concessions available in the venue.
* Empty, soft, clear water bottles will be allowed. No hydro flasks, metal, or hard plastic water bottles of any kind will be permitted inside the venue.
* Unless specifically stated by the show, venue has a strict no re-entry policy
As of September 1st, 2025, our security team will be enforcing a "Clear Bag Policy."
Guests attending public-ticketed events are permitted to bring a 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or smaller CLEAR stadium bag, or a gallon-sized clear zip bag.
Permitted non-clear bags include wristlets measuring 4″x6″x1″ and smaller, and/or diaper/medical bags, which are subject to search.
No other bags are permitted; bag storage is NOT available at the theater. Clear bags are available for purchase. Thank you for your understanding.
For a complete list of Permitted & Prohibited Items click here [https://orpheumflagstaff.com/permitted-prohibited-items/]
Where to Stay in Flagstaff [https://orpheumflagstaff.com/where-to-stay/]
Accessibility [https://orpheumflagstaff.com/accessibility/]
FAQ [https://orpheumflagstaff.com/faq/]
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
15 W. Aspen Avenue Flagstaff AZ 86001, 15 W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001-5511, United States
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