The Cleveland Museum of Natural History (CMNH) is turning up the volume this summer, bringing together science, music, and visuals with two sound-driven programs—one built around Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon,” the other featuring live piano performances in collaboration with Cleveland State University.

Starting this Saturday, May 24, “The Dark Side of the Moon” returns to the Shafran Planetarium. A crowd favorite last year, the program returns by popular demand—setting Pink Floyd’s iconic 1973 album to a light and sound experience cast across the planetarium’s dome.

"The setting of the planetarium really puts your emotions in motion, creating a more enjoyable experience under the round dome,” says museum astronomer Monica Marshall. “Witnessing the great musical talent of Pink Floyd while exploring the awe of the night sky also creates a nostalgic feeling for visitors—Pink Floyd fans, and those who haven't been under a dome since their school days."

The program sets Pink Floyd’s iconic 1973 album to a light and sound experience cast across the planetarium’s dome.Each song on the 42-minute album is paired with custom visuals—some futuristic, others pulling from the band’s classic iconography—intentionally designed to match the mood and tone of the music.

The show was created by Leicester, United Kingdom-based NSC Creative, in collaboration with Aubrey Powell of Hipgnosis, the band’s longtime creative partner.

Marshall suggests that those who saw the film at the museum during its 2024 run may want to experience it again—the planetarium’s recent upgrades include sharper visuals and better surround sound.

“The Dark Side of the Moon” runs through August 31, with screenings at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. The 5 p.m. showing isn’t available every day, so be sure to check the calendar for exact times.

Tickets are $15 for the early show and $20 for the later one, with a 10% discount for museum members. Tickets can be purchased without museum admission, but a general ticket is required to access the exhibits.

“Sounds of Summer,” the other musical addition to CMNH’s summer lineup, is a free concert series held in the museum’s new Visitor Hall on Saturdays throughout the summer. Presented in partnership with Cleveland State University, the series begins Saturday, June 14, and will feature six live piano performances through August 23.

"We are excited for this partnership with Cleveland State University,” says CMNH assistant director of programs and engagement Jackie Anselmo. “This series of performances will highlight the intersection of art and science and will offer an enhanced museum experience for our visitors."

Each performance runs from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. and is open to the public with no admission or tickets required.