Infinite Possibilities

THE PARTY With the theme Infinite Horizons, more than 700 guests were transported to a galaxy of planets to envision a world of space exploration at the annual Adler Planetarium Women’s Board 2013 Celestial Ball. THE HIGHLIGHTS Astronaut Captain James Lovell of Apollo 13 was the honorary chair of the black-tie gala, which started off with a cocktail reception highlighted by lavish hors d’oeuvres. Always known for its spectacular decor, this year’s event featured tables adorned with exotic flowers in organic green moss on satin tablecloths in deep-space blue and purple hues. Among the extravagant auction items was a gift certificate from Graff Diamonds, a family trip to Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and a rare (and adorable) charcoal lab puppy. Guests danced the evening away to the music of Sway. THE BOTTOM LINE The event raised more than $1 million for the Adler Planetarium’s STEM education programs, which reach more than 90,000 students and teachers each year with a special emphasis on communities at risk. Photography by Dan Kuruna