About Us

The mission of the Adler Planetarium is to inspire exploration and understanding of our universe.

The Adler Planetarium — America's First Planetarium — was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler. The museum is home to three full-size theaters, extensive space science exhibitions, and one of the world's most important antique astronomical instrument collections on display. The Adler is a recognized leader in science education, with a focus on inspiring young people, particularly women and minorities, to pursue careers in science.

Meet the Adler Planetarium’s executive staff.

The Adler Board of Trustees is a diverse team of corporate, philanthropic, academic, and government leaders that serves as the governing body of the institution. Trustees set and oversee Adler plans and policies, serve as ambassadors to the larger community, secure support for programs, and are primary stewards of the Adler’s finances and museum collections.

The Women’s Board is the Adler’s lead partner in education, supporting the museum’s education, research and advocacy missions. Since 2002, the board has provided essential support for the Adler’s marquee education programs. The fundraising and outreach of the Women’s Board are vital to the museum’s efforts to engage women and minorities in science.

The Adler Planetarium’s Webster Institute for the History of Astronomy houses one of the world’s great collections of historic scientific instruments, rare books, maps, works on paper, and materials documenting the exploration of the universe. In 2008, Adler Trustees authorized the creation of the Webster Club, whose charge is to strengthen and preserve the Adler Collection.

Museums Work for Chicago is a regional campaign to show people how much Chicago's fourteen major museums and zoos contribute to our area in terms of education, culture, economics, and global recognition.

The Adler Planetarium is committed to promoting sustainable practices within the museum by modeling environmentally friendly behaviors and promoting eco-friendly policies. The Adler encourages employees, volunteers, and visitors to participate in reducing our carbon footprint thereby improving the quality of our planet.

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Have a general question about the Adler? Check our frequently asked questions below.