Chandrayaan-3 Landing: Explore India’s Best 08 Planetariums

India’s Chandrayaan-3 achieved a historic lunar touchdown, joining the elite club of nations with successful lunar landings. The dynamic Vikram and Pragyan, reminiscent of Chandrayaan-2, made their mark with an innovative propulsion system. This significant milestone solidifies India’s stature in space exploration, alongside the US, Russia, and China. Executed flawlessly on July 14, Chandrayaan-3’s successful soft landing on 23rd August 2023 adds another star to India’s cosmic journey. With the successful landing of Chnadrayaan 3, India became 4th country to land on the moon. If you are someone who has always been obsessed with the celestial sphere, here are the best 10 Planetratiums in India you must visit. 

If you loved India’s historic Chandrayaan-3 landing, you need to check out these planetariums in ndia.

1Birla Planetarium, Chennai

Step into the realm of the cosmos at the M. Birla Planetarium in Chennai. This iconic planetarium offers a virtual tour of the night sky and hosts captivating cosmic shows under a specially perforated hemispherical aluminium dome. Situated within the Periyar Science and Technology Centre campus, the planetarium stands as a beacon of modernity and astronomical wonder. It’s not just about stargazing here; the campus features eight distinct galleries housing over 500 exhibits that span topics such as Physical Science, Electronics and Communication, Energy, and more. Immerse yourself in a journey through science and space, and pay tribute to the visionary B. M. Birla while you’re at it.

Entry Fees For Birla Planetarium, Chennai: Rs 30/- per person for Adults & Rs 15/- per person for Children (Below 12 yrs)

2Birla Planetarium, Hyderabad

For an adventure that’s equal parts informative and fun, the Birla Planetarium in Hyderabad beckons. The planetarium becomes a unique destination where science meets entertainment. With information presented in three languages – Hindi, English, and Telugu – this planetarium breaks down language barriers to bring the universe closer to everyone. The sky show, lasting around 35 minutes, offers insights into the celestial realm. Bridging the gap between science and the masses, the Birla Planetarium in Hyderabad is a must-visit, offering experiences that are both educational and delightful.

Entry Fees For Birla Planetarium Kolkata: Rs.150/- ; Combo (Planetarium + Science Museum): Rs.250/-

3Birla Planetarium, Kolkata

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Asia’s largest planetarium, the Birla Planetarium in Kolkata. Nestled within the city’s bustling landscape, this circular structure embraces a design reminiscent of the majestic Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi. An architectural marvel, it’s a blend of traditional Indian style and modern astronomy. Inaugurated by the visionary Jawaharlal Nehru, the planetarium boasts an electronics laboratory and an astronomical observatory equipped with a Celestron C-14 Telescope. Explore the astronomy gallery with its exquisite paintings and models, and witness over 100 astronomical projects that span the cosmos, space science, and celestial myths. With a capacity of 680, it’s a treasure trove for those who seek to uncover the universe’s secrets.

Birla Planetarium Kolkata Entry Fee: Rs 100/- per person (General); 40/- per person for students in a group of 25 or more.

4Guwahati Planetarium

Embark on a journey of astronomical discovery at the Guwahati Planetarium, a unique hub of research in Assam and the northeastern region of India. Its distinctive dome and sloping walls stand out on the skyline, setting the stage for an awe-inspiring experience. The planetarium utilizes the Japanese Goto GX instrument and is on the cusp of introducing a hybrid planetarium projection system, setting a new standard in the region. With plans for an astronomical gallery, mobile ‘Taramandal,’ and an Astro-van, this planetarium remains dedicated to bringing the universe closer to enthusiasts. As you step into the Guwahati Planetarium, you’re stepping into a world where science and the cosmos merge seamlessly.

Guwahati Planetarium Entry Fee: General Ticket is Rs.50/-. The Concession Tickets are available for the students only at Rs.30/-

5Indira Gandhi Planetarium, Patna

Journey to the heart of the Indira Gandhi Science Complex in Patna to discover a gem of a planetarium. This planetarium in India was conceptualized by the visionary Satyendra Narain Sinha, and it has grown to become one of Asia’s largest planetariums. With film shows, exhibitions, and a host of attractions, the planetarium is a magnet for tourists, both domestic and international. As the silver screen comes to life with topics related to astronomy, visitors are treated to an engaging experience. With a strategic location and an array of captivating features, the Indira Gandhi Planetarium beckons all those curious about the cosmos.

Indira Gandhi Planetarium, Patna Entry Fee 50/- Rs for adults

6Nehru Planetarium, Bengaluru

Bengaluru’s Jawahar Lal Nehru Planetarium is more than just a planetarium; it’s a beacon of education and enlightenment. Founded by the city corporation and managed by the Bengaluru Association for Science Education (BASE), the planetarium offers a unique blend of science, art, and culture. The “Space Master” planetarium projector graces a 15-meter dome, projecting constellations and panoramas that bring the night sky to life. What sets this planetarium apart are its sky-theatre shows, which merge science, literature, art, and culture into an awe-inspiring experience. The planetarium is not just a place for learning; it’s a hub of creativity and curiosity.

Nehru Planetarium, Bangalore Entry Fee: Rs.75/- per adult · Rs.50/- per Child (below the age of 16 years) Rs.40/- per head for an organized group of school students

7Nehru Planetarium, Mumbai

The Nehru Planetarium, commissioned in 1977, is an emblem of learning and edutainment. The planetarium has carved a niche for itself by making astronomy a pleasurable experience for all. But it doesn’t stop at edutainment; it has evolved into a hub for scientific discussions, lectures, and meetings. As you explore the exhibits and events, you’ll realize that the Nehru Planetarium is more than just a place to learn about the stars – it’s a platform where science and curiosity unite to ignite a spark of wonder.

Nehru Planetarium Entry Fees: ₹100 per person (aged 5 years and above)

8Pathani Samanta Planetarium

Journey to Bhubaneswar’s Pathani Samanta Planetarium, a place dedicated to creating awareness about space, astronomy, and astrophysics. Engage in mesmerizing audio-visual programs, immerse yourself in poster shows, and gaze at the night sky through the planetarium’s lens. Beyond being a centre for education, the planetarium encourages research in the field of astronomical science, contributing to the advancement of our understanding of the cosmos.

Pathani Samanta Planetarium Entry Fee: 30/- per person for Adults and 20/- per person for children.

Each of these planetariums offers a unique window to the universe. From the celestial wonders of Chennai’s M. Birla Planetarium to the interactive programs at New Delhi’s Nehru Planetarium, there’s something for every star enthusiast. As we congratulate ISRO on this amazing feat, let’s embark on a celestial journey, unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, and let the wonders of the universe ignite your curiosity and imagination.

by Ciyona Fernandes

Chief Editor at Things2do