A long time ago, in a movie theater far, far away, the lights went down and we were dropped into the outer space of “Star Wars.”

We were given a few seconds to take in peaceful stars and planets before a gigantic white spaceship shot out over us with an almost unbearable weight, filling the top of our field of vision and shrinking us into awe.

Now, with those memories replaying in our mind, we can be the ones standing over the Imperial Star Destroyer, taking in all the sleek white expanse of Darth Vader’s ship — all 49 inches long. It’s the model that was filmed for the opening of the original “Star Wars” movie and one of 80 artifacts that can be seen in a long-awaited exhibit that opens May 26 at Exploration Place.

“Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination” is the largest exhibition that Exploration Place has ever staged. To make room for its 10,000 square feet – 3,000 square feet more than its previously largest exhibit, “Whales,” the museum had to relocate its Tots’ Spot and reconstruct walls and floors.

Joliet Public Library hosts third annual Star Wars Day featuring over 30 costumed characters from the Star Wars Universe including fan favorites Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia, Queen Amadalia, Storm Troopers, and Jedi Knights courtesy of the 501st. Midwest Garrison and Rebel Legion.

Join us on June 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Main Library to find out if you have what it takes to be a Jedi or Sith Lord during this family friendly event which will feature many Star Wars themed activities, costume competition, and live musical performances of Star Wars themed songs by the Illinois Klingon Troubador Project. Participants are encouraged to come dressed as one of their favorite characters and enter a costume contest, but costumes are not required to attend this event.

An exciting addition this year includes a meet and greet with award winning Star Wars artist Dave Dorman and fantasy illustrator Steve Palenica.

This year’s partners include Joliet City Center Partnership, City of Joliet, and the Heritage Corridor and Visitors Bureau. Sponsors include Friends of the Joliet Public Library, Dr. Pirie of Elite Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Institute, and D'Arcy Motors.