Birla Planetarium’s new viewing experience opnes
HYDERABAD: The B.M. Birla Planetarium opened its upgraded system to the public on Friday, giving the audience, especially children, a deep immersive and cinematic experience.
Unlike the concentric circles for 36 years, the new system has unidirectional seating arrangements, relocated projectors to the cove area, and a perforated clear projection dome. The cosmic space show, called ‘The Biography of the Universe’ was in English at 11.30 am 4 pm and 6 pm, in Telugu at 12.15 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm and 6.45 pm and Hindi at 7.30 pm.
The upgrades have increased the viewing experience. The visuals kept the viewers glued to their seat during the show. “The planetarium team worked tirelessly for two weeks for almost 18 hours a day to ensure visitors have a memorable experience,” said K.G. Kumar, director, G.P. Birla Archaeological Astronomical and Scientific Research Institute under which the B.M. Birla Science Centre and Planetarium functions.
‘Biography of the Universe’ talks about an inspirational journey through time and a celebration of life on Earth. Starting with the Big Bang, this show deals with the birth of the universe, the formation of the stars and galaxies, the solar system, the Earth and the first life and ends in theories about what could happen when the Sun explodes or an asteroid hits the Earth.
“It was a thrilling experience, I remember coming here as a kid when in school. I got a bad corner, felt like I didn’t get the best view but today erased that memory and I was just as excited as my 8-year-old,” said Meera Kirutan, an IT professional.
Sahiti B., a 14-year-old astronomy enthusiast, had visited the planetarium several years ago and loved the new experience. “I was able to recall the many things I learnt as a kid, understood the power of the visual medium,” she said.
“We wanted more and more people to enjoy the thrill of human perseverance and splendour of the magnificent possibilities that lie outside our home planet – the Earth and also enjoy the exhibits in the interactive zone. We also have a new experience science gallery which encourages interactive learning for better perception,” the director said.
