Prague’s Cutting Edge New Planetarium Sets Records

For nearly 65 years, the Prague Planetarium has been drawing curious minds skyward. Now it has taken a quantum leap into the future.

After a two-year renovation, this iconic venue has reopened with Europe’s first full LED dome, setting new standards for what immersive storytelling and science education can be.

At the heart of the update is a 22-meter-diameter hemispherical LED screen provided by Cosm’s CX System.

The dome is fully immersive at 360 by 180 degrees, eliminating shadows and blind spots and surrounding audiences in pure image.

The building itself is a protected historic structure, dating back to the 1950s. Integrating cutting-edge LED technology into its existing form was no small feat.

Engineers worked within strict architectural constraints while upgrading infrastructure to handle the demands of the new system. The result is a sleek, comfortable space that now seats 277 visitors. Indeed, the relocation of the projection system allowed for 20% more seats than before, within the same footprint.

A trip to the Prague Planetarium is more than just a stargazing session. Visitors can expect astronomy shows that map the night sky in vivid detail, real-time simulations of cosmic events, and immersive journeys through our solar system and beyond.

The LED dome allows for bright daytime scenes and even non-astronomical programs: cultural showcases, natural landscapes, or experimental art visuals. Families will find engaging programs for children, while science enthusiasts can dive into detailed, data-driven presentations. With new custom seating and upgraded acoustics, the experience is as comfortable as it is breathtaking.

The new system also expands the planetarium’s potential. From concerts to immersive art, the space is designed to host a wider range of cultural events. It becomes not just a scientific venue, but a city landmark for creative storytelling and shared wonder.

It’s worth noting that Prague’s dome serves a different purpose than the much larger Las Vegas Sphere. The Sphere is designed for concerts and live shows, boasting a wraparound interior screen that envelopes tens of thousands of people in sweeping spectacle.

Prague’s dome, though far smaller, focuses on clarity, contrast, and scientific accuracy, creating an environment where the fine details of the cosmos shine. Both are groundbreaking, but they live in separate worlds of experience: one educational and contemplative, the other theatrical and spectacular.

From its reopening, the planetarium has been drawing in excited crowds. For visitors, the effect is visceral. It demonstrates how a historic cultural institution can reinvent itself for the 21st century, combining legacy and innovation in a way that amplifies both.

Read more about the events and schedule at Planetum.cz.

Images © Copyright Planetum. Photos via BoysPlayNice. Via UrDesign.

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