- The International Planetarium Society
- Dayna Thompson, Planetarium Director (BSU)
Planetaria play a multifaceted and valuable role in society, contributing to education, scientific understanding, and overall cultural enrichment. Multiple international government and scientific agencies have recognized the worth that the planetarium provides, especially in education.
The planetarium dome surrounds viewers with a 360-degree canvas, effectively conveying concepts in a manner that flat screens simply cannot replicate.1,2
Planetaria offer a similar experience to virtual reality (VR) while differing in how the planetarium is a shared experience3—serving as both a teaching tool and a bonding experience among groups that is associated with positive educational outcomes.4,5
Studies performed on students who learned complex scientific topics within a planetarium suggested that such an environment encouraged a deeper understanding of concepts that require 3D thinking.6
The visualization, freedom, flexibility, and interactivity of the planetarium environment are invaluable for engaging audience members, especially in our modern digital age where attention is so difficult to capture.
There is abundant evidence that suggests that planetarium shows can "generate interest in science, improve academic achievement in students, and develop skills and understanding of the natural world" - The International Planetarium Society
Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page before submitting a planetarium program request.
