The Odisha government has taken a significant step toward transforming Bhubaneswar's Pathani Samanta Planetarium into a world-class facility. On Thursday, officials signed a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for major upgradation and modernisation of the planetarium.
Strengthening Astronomy Education Across Odisha
This ambitious project aims to strengthen astronomy education throughout the state. The modernisation will expand science outreach programs significantly. Officials want to develop the planetarium into a premier institution for scientific learning.
Key Partners in the Modernisation Project
The Department of Science and Technology signed the MoU with the Birla Industrial & Technology Museum (BITM) from Kolkata. BITM operates as a unit of the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), which falls under the Ministry of Culture. This partnership brings together state and national expertise in science education.
The Pathani Samanta Planetarium has served as a key institution for popularising science in Odisha for decades. It has played a vital role in promoting astronomy, astrophysics, and space science across the region.
Honoring Odisha's Renowned Astronomer
The planetarium carries the name of Odisha's celebrated astronomer Maha Mahopadhyay Chandrasekhar Singh Harichandan Mahapatra Samanta. People commonly know him as Pathani Samanta. The facility first opened its doors to the public on January 8, 1990.
Since its inauguration, the planetarium has steadily expanded its activities. It has successfully promoted scientific curiosity among countless students and general visitors. The institution has become a hub for astronomy enthusiasts throughout the state.
Current Operations and Future Vision
Currently, the planetarium screens daily shows in three languages: Odia, English, and Hindi. The facility remains closed on Mondays for maintenance. These shows have educated and inspired generations of visitors.
The upcoming modernisation project promises to enhance these offerings dramatically. Officials envision creating a facility that meets international standards while remaining accessible to Odisha's diverse population. This upgrade represents a substantial investment in the state's scientific infrastructure.
Local science educators have welcomed the announcement enthusiastically. They believe the upgraded planetarium will spark greater interest in STEM fields among Odisha's youth. The project aligns with broader efforts to improve science education across India.
