Image Source: Shubham ingle
About Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
A premier science education and astronomy centre, the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is located in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It was established in 1989 by the Bangalore Association for Science Education (BASE) to foster scientific temper and interest in space science.
It is named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who had a vision of promoting scientific inquiry and education among young minds.
Observatory with Refractor Telescope
Bringing distant stars and planets closer to earth, a six-inch code refractor telescope is installed into the planetariums. It allows enthusiasts to gaze at the celestial wonders.
Sky Theatre Experience
Sky Theatre is a renowned planetarium, which is a 15-meter dome with a seating capacity of around 210 people. The theatre has an advanced projection system that explains celestial phenomena and offers captivating shows on topics like the solar system, black holes, and constellations.
Educational Focus
Planetarium conducts interactive sessions to educate people about astronomy and astrophysics. It offers special programs like Science Club and Telescoe training for students and space enthusiasts.
Thematic shows such as “The Dawn of the Space Age,” “Our Solar System,” and “Exploring the Universe” tell the hidden secret about nature.
Science Park Development
Adjacent to the Planetarium is the Science Park, which is an open-air space for various interactive exhibits. It has giant kaleidoscopes, whispering dishes, and models that demonstrated principles of physics and astronomy.
Celestial Events and Celebrations
Several sky gazing events are organised by the planetarium, where visitors can use telescopes to observe celestial objects like planets, the Moon, and constellations. Astronomical events such as meteor showers, solar and lunar eclipses, and planetary alignments are popular.
The events include live screenings, expert talks, and guided observations.
The planetarium also hosts programs for visually impaired students, using tactile models and audio descriptions. Also, it is conducted in different languages, in English and Kannada.
Advanced Projection System
In 2017, a state-of-the-art hybrid projection system was upgraded, which combines opto-mechanical and digital technologies for an immersive experience. It shows real-time simulations of celestial phenomena, enhancing the learning experience.
Show Timing
Taking visitors on an astronomical voyage, the planetarium hosts two daily shows at 3 PM and 4:30 PM. Keep in mind the planetarium remains closed on Monday.
Entry Fee
Making it an accessible and enriching experience for all, the entry fee to the park is Rs. 35 for adults and Rs. 20 for children.
How to Reach
By Road: It is well-connected by city buses and cabs.
By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, around 35 km away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Bangalore City Railway Station, about 4 km away.
By Metro: The Cubbon Park Metro Station is just a short walk from the planetarium.
Maps and Location
Situated just 3 km from Bangalore City Railway Station, the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium graces T. Chowdiah Road, near Vidhana Soudha in Bangalore.