After nearly 30 years of captivating audiences, astro-visualization director Carter Emmart departs from the American Museum of Natural History, leaving behind a galaxy of unforgettable experiences.
Carter Emmart: A Luminary's Journey Beyond the Stars

Carter Emmart: A Luminary's Journey Beyond the Stars
Celebrating the legacy of Carter Emmart as he prepares for an extraordinary retirement after decades at the Hayden Planetarium.
In a cosmic farewell that resonates with audiences worldwide, Carter Emmart, the revered director of astro-visualization at the Hayden Planetarium of the American Museum of Natural History, is set to retire after nearly three decades of enchanting planetarium shows. Emmart, who has been curating a digital cosmos crafted from the wonders of space probes and telescope images, is hailed as a pioneer in delivering immersive experiences that offer a journey through time and space.
Affectionately known for his unique style—shoulder-length hair, colorful beaded accessories, and a blue astronaut jumpsuit—Emmart's vibrant personality adds flair to his role. His office, adorned with a collection of Barbies dressed in global costumes, reflects his imaginative approach to astro-visualization.
Over the years, millions of visitors have marveled at his shows, which have taken them through cosmic phenomena such as exploding stars and colliding galaxies. Featuring the narration of renowned voices like Tom Hanks, Whoopi Goldberg, and Neil deGrasse Tyson, these presentations have extended their reach to 60 institutions across 40 countries.
As Emmart prepares for his final show, "Encounters in the Milky Way," which premiered on June 9, he leads a nostalgic tour through his digital universe, where viewers can appreciate the intricate details of the moon's craters and the dunes of Mars. With his sights set on retiring in Thailand to embrace nature’s tranquility, he reflects on the unforgettable journey he has shared with audiences. Emmart's departure marks the end of an era, yet the legacy of his celestial storytelling is destined to resonate for years to come.
Affectionately known for his unique style—shoulder-length hair, colorful beaded accessories, and a blue astronaut jumpsuit—Emmart's vibrant personality adds flair to his role. His office, adorned with a collection of Barbies dressed in global costumes, reflects his imaginative approach to astro-visualization.
Over the years, millions of visitors have marveled at his shows, which have taken them through cosmic phenomena such as exploding stars and colliding galaxies. Featuring the narration of renowned voices like Tom Hanks, Whoopi Goldberg, and Neil deGrasse Tyson, these presentations have extended their reach to 60 institutions across 40 countries.
As Emmart prepares for his final show, "Encounters in the Milky Way," which premiered on June 9, he leads a nostalgic tour through his digital universe, where viewers can appreciate the intricate details of the moon's craters and the dunes of Mars. With his sights set on retiring in Thailand to embrace nature’s tranquility, he reflects on the unforgettable journey he has shared with audiences. Emmart's departure marks the end of an era, yet the legacy of his celestial storytelling is destined to resonate for years to come.