After a two-year renovation, Lucknow’s iconic Indira Gandhi Planetarium is set to reopen today, August 19, introducing India's first active stereo 3D technology. The revamped facility boasts a cutting-edge 8K Digital Full Dome Projection System, powered by six synchronised projectors and enriched with NASA’s Digital Universe data.

The transformed Indira Gandhi Planetarium will now take visitors on an unforgettable journey through time, from the Jurassic era to distant galaxies. Its ₹42 crore upgrade features cutting-edge Digistar-7 technology, a flawless nanoseam dome, and immersive 3D shows depicting dinosaurs, meteor showers, and planetary movements.

Audiences can enjoy breathtaking 30-35 minute shows featuring realistic 3D depictions of Jurassic landscapes, and more. With 5 daily screenings starting at noon, the planetarium accommodates 218 visitors per show, the first and last screenings each day showcase the spectacular 3D experience, while others present equally captivating 2D versions.

Keeping accessibility in mind, ticket pricing has been set at reasonable ₹100 (2D) and ₹200 (3D) for general visitors, with half-price tickets available for students and differently-abled guests. Children under five enjoy complimentary entry.

Inaugurated by Science Minister Anil Kumar, the planetarium’s real-time NASA data streaming and immersive 3D technology position it as India’s premier astronomy hub. With student-friendly pricing and curriculum-linked cosmic shows, it aims to spark scientific curiosity among young learners while offering researchers cutting-edge visualisation tools.

The inaugural show for 110 Atal Residential School students heralds a transformative approach to STEM education, making cosmic wonders accessible to both aspiring astronomers and casual stargazers.