As a child, young Matt Linke found himself wanting to learn more about the planets and outer space.

After coming to U-M to begin a master's program in 1988, Linke was offered the planetarium director position at the Museum of Natural History. In addition to being a presenter, Linke also creates shows and movies for the planetarium.

The planetarium has undergone many renovations over the last twenty years. Most recently, the third (and last) analog instrument under the original canvas dome was replaced with a state-of-the-art digital, all-dome projection system. This employs a powerful computer to reproduce and display the night sky and things in it. Travel from the surface of the Earth to the most distant reaches of the Universe is now possible, in addition to exciting all-dome feature films.

Each year, thousands of adults and children attend star talks and other planetarium shows. Linke enjoys the work he does because it allows him to informally teach the general public and students of all levels about the universe. He believes U-M's unique blend of faculty and staff, as well as the resources available at the university, help to make all aspects of the museum's work a success. "There are so many resources and interesting people here. I can't imagine doing what I do, the way that I do it, anywhere else." says Linke.