Carter Emmart: A Galactic Farewell from the Hayden Planetarium

Carter Emmart, known for creating captivating planetarium shows that span the cosmos, is retiring from his role at the Hayden Planetarium. His final show, "Encounters in the Milky Way," opened on June 9, marking the end of an era. Emmart is set to enjoy a quieter life in Thailand, after his extraordinary tenure that has inspired millions.

For nearly three decades, Carter Emmart has been the driving force behind the mesmerizing planetarium shows at the American Museum of Natural History's Hayden Planetarium, but now, he is preparing to voyage beyond the familiar stars. As the director of astro-visualization, Emmart, 64, has spent years crafting a digital universe enriched with data and visuals from space probes and telescopes around the globe.

His imaginative shows have transported millions of visitors back and forth through time and space, unveiling the captivating stories of the cosmos. Dressed in an iconic blue astronaut jumpsuit with long hair and beads, Emmart looks every bit the part of a cosmic explorer, and his office is a reflection of his creative spirit, adorned with Barbies dressed up in eclectic regional outfits for his design models.

Over the years, audiences have gasped as they witnessed spectacular stars exploding, galaxies colliding, and interstellar dust swirling in beautiful formations. His shows, narrated by notable figures such as Tom Hanks and Neil deGrasse Tyson, have not only entertained but also educated, spanning across 60 institutions in 40 countries.

During a recent visit, a fortunate viewer experienced a personal tour as Emmart showcased his celestial creations, lingering over the moon's craters and the landscapes of Mars. Emmart's final production, "Encounters in the Milky Way," debuted on June 9, encapsulating the history and projected future of our galaxy, while marking his exit from the planetarium scene.

As the summer unfolds, he plans to retire to Thailand, cherishing the prospect of reconnecting with nature in tranquility. "I’m looking forward to being in nature with the peace and quiet," Emmart shared, closing a significant chapter of his life's work that has sparked curiosity and wonder about the universe beyond our planet.