Lucknow: The Indira Gandhi Planetarium, Lucknow, reopened in a grand ceremony after undergoing major modernization, offering visitors an immersive 8K/3D astronomical experience. The revamped planetarium was inaugurated at 3 PM by Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of Science and Technology, Anil Kumar, in the presence of Minister of State for Science and Technology Ajit Singh Pal, Principal Secretary Pandhari Yadav, Special Secretary Sheeldhar Yadav, Director General of the Council of Science & Technology, UP, along with senior officials and scientists.
In his address, Minister Anil Kumar emphasized the growing role of science and technology in nation-building and said the upgraded planetarium would serve as an inspiration for students and scientists alike. He also announced that modernization work at Gorakhpur and Rampur planetariums was nearing completion, while a Science Park in Gorakhpur was in its final phase. Referring to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s vision, he highlighted the significance of science in achieving the goal of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
Minister of State Ajit Singh Pal remarked that the planetarium’s new form was a matter of pride for Uttar Pradesh, noting that it would not only entertain but also cultivate a scientific outlook among children and youth.
Principal Secretary Pandhari Yadav underlined that the upgraded facility, equipped with state-of-the-art 2D/3D 8K digital full-dome projection and Digistar 7 technology, would spark curiosity and promote science communication. The planetarium now enables real-time simulations of the universe, including lunar landscapes, asteroid collisions, galaxy formations, and celestial phenomena. Viewers can witness the night sky from 10,000 years in the past to 10,000 years into the future. Advanced terrain rendering allows exploration of planets, mountains, valleys, and clouds.
The planetarium also boasts a 15-meter seamless nano-seam dome and an upgraded 7.1 surround sound system, ensuring a distortion-free, lifelike experience. With dome-casting technology, shows from Lucknow can now be broadcast live to other planetariums worldwide.
The first audience included 110 students of Atal Residential School, Mohanlalganj. On this occasion, a prize distribution ceremony was also held, and members of the Uttar Pradesh Amateur Astronomers’ Club (UPAAC) participated.
Ticket prices were announced:
- Free entry for children below 5 years.
- General audience: ₹100 (2D) and ₹200 (3D).
- Students up to 18 years & persons with disabilities: ₹50 (2D) and ₹100 (3D).
- Special concessions for groups of 100 or more: ₹30 (2D) and ₹60 (3D) per student; ₹60 (2D) and ₹120 (3D) per general visitor.
Shows will run daily from 12 noon to 4:30 PM, with an additional 6 PM summer show. Mondays will remain closed, while on weekends, select shows will be conducted in English at 1 PM and others in Hindi.
The planetarium, under the Council of Science & Technology, Uttar Pradesh, has reemerged as one of the country’s premier centers for astronomy education, drawing praise from science enthusiasts, students, educators, and media representatives present at the inauguration.
