JOIN USPay a visit to the stars
Sky theatre, and Space Master are highlights of the Planetarium.
In a completely dark hall, an image of the sun suddenly appears on the rounded ceiling. As your eyes widen and you get the distinct feeling as though you are getting nearer to it, within seconds it appears that you have boarded a journey to our solar system. This sky theatre is a part of our City’s very own Nehru Planetarium which is very popular among young children and astronomy enthusiasts.
The first thing that grabs your attention is the ‘Space Master’, a telescope which has served the planetarium for 25 years, since the time of its establishment. As you move ahead several interesting facts about the universe are brought to light. Simple instruments can be used to understand gravitation, light and how planets revolve in retrograde motion.
To make it more interactive and fun, the planetarium has LCD screens in every section which give detailed information about the origin of the universe. Short films on ‘Big Bang’ theory which led to the evolution of stars and planets are continuously replayed on the screens.
Scientists have constructed a ‘Sky Map of the universe’ through imaging electromagnetic waves coming in from all the directions. Other videos on recent studies of galaxies and the Milky Way are also played on loops continously.
For science enthusiasts, sections like ‘Exploring Planetary World’ which point out the difference between weight and mass; gravitation and formation of stars are a big attraction. Another interesting part of the planetarium is the place where original Soyuz T-10 has been placed, the space module in which Sqn Ldr Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian cosmonaut returned to earth after completing his mission on 11 April, 1984. A cosmonaut’s space suit is also on display.
The planetarium also has a section devoted to ancient Indian texts on astronomy. To see the details of the texts, one has to use an eye camera placed on the table. A digital flip book appears onscreen that gives you an insight into Aryabhatta discoveries in the field of astronomy.
The director of the planetarium N Rathnashree says, “Innovative and informative shows like Our Cosmic Heritage, New Solar System and Life Story of a Star are most loved by people. Over the years, we have been conducting interactions and programmes for visitors, students and amateur astronomers. Workshops and photography exhibitions are also conducted to encourage those are in love with our solar system.”