SCHENECTADY, NY (August 5, 2025) — Discover Schenectady announced today that the Museum of Innovation and Science (miSci) will present Rockin’ the Dome — an all-new planetarium series combining stunning 360-degree visuals with the timeless energy of classic rock. The first Rockin’ the Dome experience will feature the music of rock legends Led Zeppelin and debuts Saturday, August 23.
Building on the success of James Hood’s Mesmerica, which captivated audiences with its immersive audiovisual experience during a 10-month run at miSci, Rockin’ the Dome invites visitors to embark on unforgettable journeys through the music they love — all under miSci’s cutting-edge planetarium dome.
To commemorate Led Zeppelin’s historic performance at the Schenectady Aerodome in August of 1969, opening night tickets to Rockin’ the Dome will be priced at only $4.50 — the same price it cost to see the band at the Aerodome. And if you can show proof you were at that legendary performance, your ticket is FREE!
Regular admission to Rockin’ the Dome is $20 and includes admission to the museum. Tickets can be purchased on miSci’s website here or misci.org. Shows run every Saturday night at 5:50, 6:50 and 7:50 p.m. until September 13, when Rockin’ the Dome will begin featuring the timeless music of Pink Floyd.
“Shows like these just couldn’t be seen in the Capital Region until now,” said Chris Hunter, miSci’s President. “Thanks to community support and recent upgrades to our planetarium, we welcomed nearly 30,000 planetarium visitors this year — a 68% increase over the previous year. Now Rockin’ the Dome will bring the iconic music of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and more to our visitors in a way they’ve never experienced before.”
Rockin’ the Dome is made possible by presenting sponsor Price Chopper/Market 32. The Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority provided over $140,000 in funding to equip the planetarium to host immersive programming like Mesmerica and Rockin’ the Dome shows. Additional support was provided by the Bender Scientific Fund, and the Niskayuna Community Foundation. Planetarium upgrades include a new projector, projection equipment, sound system, seating, and other technical enhancements.
“Schenectady County continues to attract unique, one-of-a-kind shows like Rockin’ the Dome that set us apart as a destination for arts, culture, and innovation,” said Gary Hughes. Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “With the success of Mesmerica and major upgrades to the planetarium, miSci is now a place where unforgettable music and visuals come together in a way you can’t find anywhere else in the region.”
“Rockin’ the Dome brings together everything we love about Schenectady County — innovation, unforgettable experiences and fun,” said Todd Garofano, Executive Director of Discover Schenectady. “We’re thrilled that miSci continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in a planetarium setting and this unique, only-in-Schenectady experience will have visitors and locals talking about it long after the music ends.”
Don’t miss the chance to hear classic Led Zeppelin tunes including “Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Lotta Love,” “Kashmir” and more — like you’ve never heard, or seen, them before at miSci’s Rockin’ the Dome!
More information is also available at Discover Schenectady’s dedicated Rockin’ the Dome web page located here. The page includes ticketing information along with details on where visitors can eat, drink, play and stay in Schenectady County while attending the show.
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About Discover Schenectady: Discover Schenectady is a non-profit organization responsible for promoting travel, tourism, conference and convention assets and opportunities throughout Schenectady County. Discover Schenectady inspires visitors to experience and enjoy that Schenectady County has to offer, from its vibrant communities with dining, entertainment and shopping to its gorgeous waterfront and outdoor activities. For more ways to Discover Schenectady County all year long, visit www.discoverschenectady.com