subject: Explore A Space Odyssey In Mumbais Nehru Planetarium [print this page] Out of the four Nehru Planetariums scattered across India, the Mumbai instalment of the famed institution enjoys an unparalleled reputation as one of the countrys finest centres for scientific and galactic exploration and education. Named after the nations first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru the planetarium cum science centre has been a pioneer much like its name sake in the field of astronomy. Having opened its doors to the public in the late 70s, the planetarium is a popular hangout for aspiring astronomers and would be cosmic scientists who flock to the dome shaped structure down Annie Besant Road for inspiration and a host of educational activities. Designed by renowned Indian architect J.M. Kadri, the planetarium is the focal point of interest within the Nehru Science Complex which also houses the Nehru Science Centre and the Nehru Auditorium.
Equipped with a state-of- the -art Carl Zesis Universal Projector and Digistar-3 technology the planetarium offers a true to life space exploration experience like no other. Visitors can sit back and relax while the cosmic universe is unfolded before them in a virtual encounter that is guaranteed to engage the galactic explorer in each of us. Running its 31st sky theatre presentation dubbed Awesome Universe, the venue also offers guests a 45-minute display named the Wonders of the Universe as a part of the theatre program. Guests can also calculate their weight on the nine planets of our solar system by venturing in to the informative cubicles located within the planetarium. As the only astronomical centre in the country that also includes a cinema and concert auditorium, children are able to enjoy regular films specially created for their consideration and pleasure. Educational programs such as astro-poetry, science elocution, astro-painting, and astro-quiz contests are also organized by the planetarium which also offers study programs for students in solar and lunar eclipses and meteor showers.
Adjoining the planetarium is the equally engaging Nehru Science Centre where visitors will find the 14-gallery exhibit named the Discovery of India housing 3D replicas of the nations major artistic and architectural wonders. Complete with 50,000 exhibits the 100,000 square feet exhibition space provides audio visual presentations, photographs and dioramas that trace the countrys progress throughout the years. Home to an illustrious library, art gallery, restaurant and a cultural centre the venue also exhibits antique vehicles such as airplanes; steam lorries, tramcars and ancient railway engines.
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