Step into a world where the stars shine brighter, the mysteries grow deeper, and the spirit of Christmas comes alive in the night sky. This live, 40-min pop-up planetarium experience is perfect for families (with children age 6+) looking for a fun, yet educational outing this festive season.
The journey begins with a tour of tonight's sky, pointing out the winter constellations and the planets currently lighting up the heavens. Then you'll discover the Star of Bethlehem, the celestial marvel that heralded the birth of Christ 2,000 years ago.
Journey in the planetarium back in time to view the sky over ancient Bethlehem, where the nature and timing of that fabled star will be explored. To understand what it might have been, you'll dive deep into various cosmic phenomena, taking into account often overlooked information eg. Apparently the Christmas Star was not particularly bright, and it appeared twice, about a year apart.
Ever wanted to ask an astronomer a question? This is your chance. An extensive Q&A session at the end invites you to probe deeper into the Christmas Star, or any other celestial subject on your mind. Questions are answered with memorable 360° visuals filling the dome, imparting a whole new dimension to your queries.
The journey ends with a feast of Christmas sounds and colours, engulfing the dome in 360° splendour.
PLEASE NOTE: audiences sit on foam flooring and adults may wish to bring a cushion. All children age 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult, and babies in arms go free.
Wheelchair users: Please contact host before purchasing tickets so that entry can be arranged accordingly
Age restrictions: 6+
Adult (adults and children age 12+) | £8.50 |
Child (children age 11 and younger) | £6.50 |
Concession (registered disabled, registered carers, and NHS workers) | £6.90 |
Family Group (1 adult / 3 children) | £26 |
Family group (2 adults / 2 children) | £27 |
Senior Citizen | £6.90 |
Student (we may ask to see your ID) | £6.90 |
Mario has over two decades experience with digital domes and planetariums, both fixed and mobile. He launched and managed the UK`s first purpose-built digital planetarium (Thinktank Science Museum, Birmingham, 2005-2013); as well as the Glasgow Planetarium, then the UK`s most expensive planetarium (2001-2004). Mario has worked as a consultant for the Guinness Book of World Records Macao Planetarium (China, 2004-2008) and the Peter Harrison Planetarium (London, 2005). Additional planetarium experience includes We The Curious (Bristol, 2000) and Armagh Planetarium (Northern Ireland, 2000-2001). Before that, Mario established and managed one of South Africa's first interactive science centre networks (KwaZuzulwazi in Durban, 1992-1999), as well as a 'simulated' planetarium at the Durban Natural Science Museum (1998-1999). Currently Mario is the owner and director Dome Club Ltd, also trading as Immersive Theatres (schools outreach).
Ask your question directly to Dome Club Planetarium.