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Prague Planetarium unveils Europe's first LED dome
Following two years of extensive renovations, the Prague Planetarium celebrated the unveiling of its new fully digital LED dome on Saturday. The project marks a significant milestone for the institution, which aims to enhance its educational and astronomical offerings. The dome, measuring 22 metres in diameter, is expected to be the first of its kind in Europe, featuring approximately 45 million LED lights that create stunning, highly detailed images of the starry sky.
Jakub Rozehnal, director of Prague Observatory and Planetarium, emphasised the importance of this development, stating that the reconstruction was the largest in the facility's 65-year history. 'Everyone we have shown the new system to has been amazed,' he said. The digital upgrade is designed not only to improve visual quality but also to provide a more immersive experience for visitors, integrating modern technology with the planetarium's longstanding reputation as a centre for astronomical education.
The new lighting system, manufactured by a prominent US-based company, stands out for its longevity, low maintenance requirements, and exceptional image contrast and resolution. This advanced technology dramatically enhances the viewing experience, allowing for more precise and vivid portrayals of celestial phenomena. Additionally, the system's waste heat is repurposed to heat the entire building during the winter months, reflecting the facility's commitment to sustainability.
The renovation cost approximately £12 million ($13.8 million), illustrating the significant investment made in maintaining Prague Planetarium's status as a leading astronomical educational centre. The planetarium, which opened its doors in 1960, attracts more than 250,000 visitors annually from around the world.
A key aspect of the renovation was the preservation of the site's historical roots. In partnership with conservationists, the original projection device—crafted by the East German optics manufacturer Carl Zeiss Jena—is being retained in an adjacent room. This ensures the preservation of a vital piece of the planetarium's history while embracing cutting-edge digital technology.
The Prague Planetarium is also recognised for its contributions to scientific education and outreach. Over the years, it has hosted numerous exhibitions, astronomy lectures, and space-themed events designed to inspire curiosity among visitors of all ages. It has a long-standing reputation for fostering public interest in astronomy, making the recent advancements an exciting chapter in its ongoing mission to educate and inspire.
Prior to the recent upgrades, the director of the Prague Planetarium was Dr. Pavel Vlk, who served until 2020. The current management team continues to focus on expanding educational programs and enhancing visitor experiences, ensuring the planetarium remains a pivotal cultural and scientific landmark in the Czech Republic. The recent technological advancements position Prague Planetarium at the forefront of astronomical education and entertainment in Europe, promising to attract even larger audiences and deepen public engagement with the cosmos. —dpa
