Mobile Planetarium

We have an inflatable mobile planetarium with the latest projection equipment, with which we can provide astronomy shows covering a wide variety of astronomy themes. These are usually based on a 'tour' of the night sky, taking in some major constellations and the astronomical objects to be found there, including galaxies and nebulae, and their physical properties. We can also display the appearance and motion of the Sun, and the planets and their moons. We can describe some of the historical aspects of astronomy, such as the origin of the constellation patterns in the Greek myths, and the historical use of the night sky (e.g. for navigation). As well as the 'classical' star-based planetarium display, our new digital equipment allows us to show close-ups of planets, nebulae and galaxies using spectacular telescope images, and allows us to leave the Earth behind and go on a virtual journey through the wider universe.

Our school shows are usually aligned closely with the learning outcomes of the school curriculum, and we can tailor our presentations to highlight whichever areas you find most interesting. Each show usually lasts around 30 minutes, and the planetarium can accommodate an audience of about 25 in each show. We prefer to operate with a team of 3 presenters, which gives 2 with the planetarium for the star show, and allows the third team member to return to the classroom after a show for some follow-up, usually a question-and-answer session lasting up to about 30 minutes. All our presenters are active research astronomers, so as well as the planetarium show we give the pupils a chance to meet and talk to a real astronomer. Our primary school shows are well-suited to the P4 to P7 age range, but we can also provide presentations for an older or younger audience.

For secondary schools, we can use the planetarium to illustrate and give context to some of the physical processes involved in astrophysical objects, while discussing the physics in greater detail, in line with the secondary physics curriculum.

We are also available for non-schools-related astronomy events, such as science festivals or community astronomy days.

We can provide the planetarium either for a half day or full day. We provide the planetarium equipment and a team of experienced astronomers to present the shows. The choice of half or full day depends on the number of shows required: we require 45 minutes in total per show for 25 people, plus around half an hour at either end for set-up and take-down. If this can't be accommodated in a half day we would go to a full day.

Requirements

We require a large space such as an assembly or gym hall with a flat, clean, cleared floor and access to an electrical socket. The cleared floor space must have minimum dimensions of 8 by 8 metres (26 by 26 feet) square, and overhead clearance of 4 metres (13 feet), with no projections such as hanging light fittings below this level. The planetarium dome has a full-height airlock door, allowing quick and easy access to the interior.

If you would like to book us, we would require a list of suitable dates for the visit, the numbers/age ranges of the audience, and a contact name, address and telephone number. We welcome donations towards the on-going running costs of the planetarium - please contact us to discuss this.