Despite their destructive cinematic depictions, most lasers are helpful, often found assisting slideshow presentations and playing DVDs for people who aren't entertained by just staring at the shiny part. Let a laser do some good with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

• $14 for tickets to two shows for two people (Up to a $28 value)
$26 for tickets to two shows for four people (Up to a $56 value)

Astronomy shows include programs such as AstronoMyths, which explores the relationships between Greek mythology and constellations, and Fall Skies, a live-narrated program that teaches what stars and constellations are visible in the night sky. Laser concerts match magnificent visuals with popular music, such as Pink Floyd or Lady Gaga, and children's programming includes The Secret of the Cardboard Rocket, an adventure that teaches kids 6–12 about the solar system. Feature length varies, but most shows run for about 40 minutes, and the planetarium also hosts early-afternoon children's shows. Both shows must be viewed on the same day, and the planetarium recommends that guests arrive 20–30 minutes before showtime.

Though Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium sometimes offers a discounted price for back-to-back shows, this Groupon is still the best deal available.

Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium

The Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium entreats attendees of all ages to sit back, look up, and gaze upon constellations and other light-based spectacles. Astronomy shows entertain younger audiences during afternoon showings, with summer gems such as Attack of the Space Pirates or Solar System Odyssey. On weekends, the staff caters to older crowds with laser concerts with music from bands such as Coldplay, The Beatles, and Pink Floyd.

After the show, guests can stop into a gift shop filled to the brim with science, astronomy, and star charts, along with freeze-dried astronaut foods such as ice cream or apple wedges. With an eye toward community outreach, the Planetarium also hosts group shows and field-trip programs. The crew also regularly tricks stars into attending the third grade by dragging them to schools via the Starlab Portable Planetarium’s inflatable dome.