Prague Planetarium Unveils Europe’s Cutting-Edge Experience!
After nearly a year filled with extensive renovations, the Prague Planetarium is all set to reopen on Saturday, June 14. It now features the most cutting-edge projection technology found in Europe and ranks among the most sophisticated systems globally.
The major focus of the planetarium’s renovation is its new LED Dome, a significant upgrade costing €12 million. This new feature replaces the old projection systems with ultra-high-definition, immersive visual experiences.
“We have planned a special lineup of events for the opening weekend of June 14 and 15 to warmly welcome our visitors back,” shared director Jakub Rozehnal. “Attendees can expect a captivating 15-minute show running in cycles over both days, ticket discounts, and a special keepsake to mark the occasion.”
Starting Monday, June 16, the planetarium will revert to its regular operating schedule, which will feature a wider range of programming options. “We have acquired new educational films and are in the process of finalizing their translations and dubbing,” Rozehnal noted. “We will include everything that is ready by that date.”
A New Benchmark in Planetarium Technology
The renovation, which kicked off in summer 2023, was entirely financed by the City of Prague, with the total expenses reaching 300 million CZK. The highlight of this transformation is the LED Dome, worth 180 million CZK and measuring 22 meters in diameter.
In contrast to traditional systems that rely on spherical projectors and fabric screens, the newly designed dome utilizes 45.3 million micro-LEDs. This innovative approach provides unparalleled image quality, contrast, and brightness, achieving an impressive 8K+ resolution.
The technology—created by the American company Cosm—marks a significant advancement in immersive educational experiences.
“Prague now proudly hosts the most advanced planetarium technology available,” stated representatives from Cosm. “With the CX System, which incorporates Digistar 7 and works seamlessly with Unreal Engine, visitors will enjoy some of the most lifelike astronomical simulations and scientific visualizations in the world.”
Built to Endure—and Deliver Returns
City officials feel confident that this investment will provide returns over time. In 2019, prior to the pandemic, the planetarium attracted 200,000 visitors, and that number is anticipated to rise significantly following the enhancements. Additionally, the LED Dome has an expected lifespan of 25 years, leading to lower operational costs in the long run.
To address the considerable heat produced by the LED system, a new ventilation and energy recovery system has been put in place. The excess heat generated by the diodes will be repurposed to warm the building, thereby enhancing the facility’s energy efficiency.
Increased Capacity and Additional Offerings
The capacity of the planetarium’s auditorium has been increased from 190 to 280 seats, complemented by new amenities such as a souvenir shop, a cloakroom, and a redesigned flow layout that makes it easier for visitors to navigate.
This newly renovated space offers more than just a venue for stargazing; it aims for diverse programming opportunities. Alongside astronomy shows, it will also feature educational films, concerts, and theatrical performances. Rozehnal highlighted the mission of attracting “a wide range of audiences, spanning all age groups.”
First opened in 1960, the Prague Planetarium boasts one of the largest domes worldwide, measuring 23.5 meters in diameter. With this significant renovation, it is now poised to spearhead the future of science and culture across Europe.
