Minsk Planetarium, located in the central part of Gorky Park, is one of the most significant scientific and cultural institutions in Belarus. Opened in 1965, the planetarium has become an important place for popularizing astronomy and space exploration. It is the largest stationary planetarium in the country, featuring a star hall with 120 seats and equipped with a modern opto-mechanical device called the "Planetarium" model ZKP-1, created by the German company Carl Zeiss.
The architectural style of the building reflects Soviet modernism. The planetarium consists of two parts: the main hall and the spherical hall. The rectangular main building is distinguished by panoramic glazing, creating a sense of space and openness. In the spherical hall, which has a dome-shaped screen, films about space are shown, and sessions of the starry sky are held.
The planetarium offers several formats for visitors of different ages. For children aged 4 and older, engaging shows like "Star Fairy Tale" and "Adventures of a Drop of Water" are held. Adults are offered more complex programs— "Exoplanets," "The Universe," and others. A unique feature of the planetarium is the ability to view spherical films, where images are projected at 360 degrees, creating full immersion in the cosmic theme. The schedule for spherical films includes such titles as "Path of Light," "Dark Matter," "Into the Depths of the Universe."
In addition to film screenings, the planetarium regularly hosts scientific and educational events. The "Tribune of Scientists" project invites specialists who give lectures on space and astronomy, followed by showing the starry sky on the dome. The planetarium also actively participates in cultural projects, such as concerts with projections on the dome and international festivals of fulldome films. For the youngest visitors, a children's astronomical club called "Galileo" is organized, where children learn astronomy in a playful manner.
Adjacent to the planetarium is an observatory built in the form of a cylindrical tower with a domed roof. It is equipped with a Carl Zeiss refracting telescope with an objective diameter of 130 mm and a focal length of 1950 mm, allowing for an image magnification of 300 times. Visitors can observe celestial bodies under the guidance of specialists, weather permitting. The observatory operates in the evening from 21:00 to 23:00 and is open to everyone on Saturdays and Sundays.
The planetarium also offers romantic programs for couples called "Sky for Two," where you can enjoy the starry sky together for 40 minutes. For small groups, there is an option for private hall closure.
Minsk Planetarium actively supports the development of astronomy and space exploration, collaborating with the Eurasian Planetarium Association. The venue attracts not only star enthusiasts but also anyone interested in space and science, offering programs for children, adults, and even romantics.
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