Science Central, the popular science museum in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has officially started the construction of its new planetarium. The project, which has been in the works for years, will add a new attraction to the museum and the city.
What is a Planetarium?
A planetarium is a dome-shaped theater that simulates the night sky and other celestial phenomena. It uses a projector and a starball to create realistic images of stars, planets, constellations, and more. Planetariums are used for education, entertainment, and research purposes.
Science Central’s planetarium will be the first public planetarium in the area. It will be located within the existing center, in an unoccupied portion of the west side. The planetarium will have a dome measuring 21 feet high and 28 feet across, and will seat about 60 people. It will feature a digital projection system and a starball projector, which will allow for various shows and presentations.
Why a Planetarium?
Science Central’s mission is to inspire and educate people of all ages about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The planetarium will enhance this mission by providing a new way to explore and learn about astronomy and space science.
The planetarium will also benefit the community by attracting more visitors and tourists to the museum and the city. It will offer a unique and immersive experience that will appeal to people of different backgrounds and interests.
Science Central’s executive director, Martin Fisher, said that the planetarium will be a “game-changer” for the museum and the region. He said that it will be a “world-class facility” that will “inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers”.
When Will It Be Ready?
The construction of the planetarium is expected to take about a year and a half. The tentative opening date is the end of 2024. The project is funded by a combination of grants, donations, and sponsorships from various sources, including the state, the city, and private organizations.
Science Central held a private groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, during its annual shutdown. The ceremony was attended by representatives from the museum, the city, the state, and the contractors involved in the project.
Science Central will provide updates on the progress of the project on its website and social media platforms. The museum will also offer sneak peeks and previews of the planetarium to its members and supporters.
Science Central invites the public to support the project by making donations, becoming members, or volunteering. The museum also welcomes feedback and suggestions from the community on what they would like to see and experience in the planetarium.
