- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Mon, 19 May 2025 02:18 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Uttar Pradesh is set to revamp its planetariums to spark greater public interest in space science and astronomy. With over 11.25 lakh visitors in the past eight years to its three major planetariums — located in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Rampur — the state is witnessing growing enthusiasm for exploring the universe.
To keep up with this interest, the Uttar Pradesh Council of Science and Technology (UPCST) has begun modernising these centres with advanced technology and enhanced visitor facilities. Though currently closed for renovation, the planetariums will soon reopen with a fresh, immersive experience.
Lucknow’s Indira Gandhi Planetarium, established in 1988, has undergone a complete transformation at a cost of Rs 40 crore. Equipped with cutting-edge digital systems and a 15-meter dome, it is ready for inauguration. Renovation work is also underway at Gorakhpur’s Bir Bahadur Singh Planetarium (17-meter dome), while Rampur’s Aryabhatta Planetarium is set to be upgraded later this year.
UPCST Director Sheeldhar Singh Yadav emphasised that these planetariums are more than entertainment hubs — they are vital tools for promoting scientific thinking, especially among children and youth. Once reopened, they are expected to energise science communication and open new doors of discovery for astronomy enthusiasts across the state.