Published: Sept. 6, 2006

The history and science of astrology, including the origins of the zodiac, will be explored at the University of Colorado at Boulder Fiske Planetarium on Sept. 14-15.

Instructors Matt Tearle and Adam Norris of CU-Boulder's applied mathematics department will present the show both days at 7:30 p.m. in the planetarium.

During the show, they will discuss the basic astronomy that ancient people used to organize their lives, including how planets and stars provided timekeeping, helped farmers and sailors plan their activities and how the complex system of astrology developed.

They also will examine the similarities and differences between astrology and astronomy, as well as topics such as why there are seven days in a week and what a solstice and an equinox are.

Admission for each show is $6 for adults, $5 for students and $3.50 for children and seniors. The Sommers-Bausch Observatory is open to the public following Friday evening shows, weather permitting. Admission to the observatory is free.

For more information about Fiske Planetarium and other shows and programs it offers call (303) 492-5001 or visit the Web site at fiske.colorado.edu.