Birla Planetarium Chennai

Birla Planetarium is one of the popular attractions of Chennai that provide an insight in to the cosmic world. Birla Planetarium is an integral part of Periyar Science and Technology Museum. Periyar Center contains eight other galleries themed Physical Science,Transport, Innovation, Electronics & Communication, Energy, Materials Science, Life Science,  International Dolls and Children as well as the planetarium. Rest assured that there’s a lot to explore and discover. There are just two other Birla Planetariums in India, one in Kolkata and one in Hyderabad.

The Birla Planetarium is located in the Tamil Nadu Science and Technology Centre’s (TNSTC) Periyar Science and Technology Centre campus on the Gandhi Mandapam Road in Kotturpuram abutting the Central Leather Research Institute campus.

The Birla planetarium is equipped with a versatile opto-mechanical GOTO GM II star-field projector, an accompanying special-effects projector and an X-Y table system for simulating various celestial phenomena. The GM II projector has the provision to execute the diurnal, annual, latitudinal, and processional motions. The pierced hemispherical inner dome of the planetarium, made of aluminum, is 15 m in diameter. The air-conditioned theater has a seating capacity of 236.

The planetarium was built in the memory of B.M. Birla a leading industrialist and visionary of India. Birla Planetarium is an Indoor Universe.Its almost like the universe is brought in; with Astronomical phenomena recreated on the specially perforated aluminum inner dome. The shows simply would carry you through the space. The Birla planetarium hosts regular exciting educational shows pertaining to the astronomy..Excellent learning opportunity for students and environmentalist.

The energy and eco-park displays the way solar energy, wind energy and biogas work in creating and conserving energy. A forest lies in the eco-park with simulated flora and fauna. A Meteorological Observatory proved eye candy as well as brain food. There are numerous sights and experiences for both knowledge hunters and fun seekers.

The interactive set up is a sure win with kids and the technology is advanced enough to strike up interest in anyone. Visiting the planetarium is a great way to spend a day. Just be sure to visit on a night with clear skies and prepare to be surprised!

Birla Planetarium Information:

• Don’t miss the special observatory shows.
• The toy locomotive is a favourite with children.
• Be sure to carry food along with you as there isn’t an on site canteen.
• An interesting exhibit is the ‘Energy Ball’ contraption where a ball, once set in motion, will continue to roll through the contraption ceaselessly.

Timing: 9am-6pm