Thane District's First Planetarium Inaugurated in Shahapur Village
Thane district marked a significant milestone in science education and tourism with the inauguration of its first-ever planetarium on Sunday. The private Space Astrotainment Planetarium & Observatory (SAPO) is situated in Sakadbav village, near Shahapur town, on a sprawling 3.5-acre plot.
State-of-the-Art Digital Dome and Observatory
The facility boasts a cutting-edge 56-seat digital dome planetarium, equipped with advanced 360-degree projection technology. This immersive setup offers educational shows in three languages: Marathi, Hindi, and English, making it accessible to a diverse audience.
In addition to the planetarium, SAPO features an open-sky observatory outfitted with powerful telescopes. Visitors can engage in real-time stargazing sessions, observing celestial wonders such as Saturn's rings and the moon's surface in remarkable detail.
Visitor Amenities and Educational Vision
To enhance the experience, the centre provides stay options for visitors, encouraging extended educational trips and tourism. During the inauguration, Shahapur MLA Daulat Daroda emphasized the facility's potential to inspire children and foster a passion for astronomy among the youth.
Astronomer D.K. Soman, who served as the chief guest, highlighted the broader aspirations for SAPO. He advocated for its development into a dedicated education and research hub for astronomy, aiming to advance scientific learning and exploration in the region.
This new attraction is poised to become a key destination for students, families, and astronomy enthusiasts, contributing to Thane's cultural and educational landscape.
