A new Rs 91-crore planetarium is under construction at the Chamundi Hills campus of the University of Mysore, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAp). This planetarium will feature an innovative LED dome system, unlike traditional projector-based systems used in most planetariums. The LED system uses elements that emit light across a vast color spectrum, providing a more vibrant and immersive experience.
IIAp Director Annapurni Subramanian explained that the planetarium will feature a 15-meter diameter dome, tilted at a 15-degree angle. This unique design allows visitors to view the night sky directly in front of them, eliminating the need to lie back in reclining chairs. The LED dome system offers higher luminance and a broader color range, enabling highly realistic depictions of starry skies and astronomical visuals. The system will be powered by 8K LED lights controlled by the SkyExplorer software from RSA Cosmos, a French firm.
The construction of the planetarium is progressing swiftly, with plans to open it by September next year. The project also includes the Cosmology Education and Research Training Centre (COSMOS), which will serve as a hub for education, teacher training, and public outreach. This initiative is supported financially by various government agencies, including MPLADS funds from Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Department of Science and Technology, and the Department of Atomic Energy.
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