The Guwahati Planetarium has become a stellar attraction for the youth of Assam, successfully converting casual curiosity into a deep-seated passion for astronomy. A significant increase in footfall, particularly among students, highlights the institution's growing role as a premier science education center in Northeast India.
Record-Breaking Student Engagement and Key Initiatives
Officials report a remarkable surge in young visitors. Babul Chandra Bora, the consulting scientific officer at the planetarium, revealed that in 2024, the facility welcomed approximately 1.5 lakh visitors. Strikingly, 60-70% of these were students, marking a nearly 30% increase in student visitors compared to the previous year. This growth is fueled by concessional ticket pricing and structured educational visits.
"Many children arrive as part of school groups under the state’s flagship AROHAN mentor-mentee programme, while others visit with their families," Bora explained. To further ignite interest in astral science, the planetarium has planned free sky-watching sessions during the winter months. A special highlight will be telescope-based observations in January, when Jupiter is at perihelion (closest to Earth), offering clearer views. This follows successful earlier events like the rare planetary parade in January featuring the alignment of six planets.
Immersive Tech and Major Infrastructure Overhaul
Beyond traditional observations, the planetarium is leveraging cutting-edge technology to captivate young minds. The facility now offers virtual reality (VR) experiences, allowing children to explore space interactively through VR sets. Special screenings on various space topics further enrich the learning environment.
"These new upgrades within our facility will also play a major part in attracting the interest of these students," Bora added. The institution is undergoing a massive transformation to become a leading astronomy education hub in the region. A budget of about Rs 12 crore is being invested in a comprehensive upgrade of the four-storey structure.
The new features will include:
- A state-of-the-art auditorium and science gallery.
- A digital library and a dedicated virtual reality room.
- The state’s first 15D theatre for immersive space experiences.
- An observatory equipped with a high-power 14-inch aperture Cassegrain telescope for enhanced planetary viewing.
Building a Future for Astronomy in the Northeast
The consistent daily night sky-watching sessions, where guides help visitors identify planets, constellations, and other celestial objects, have become a cornerstone of the planetarium's appeal. The strategic combination of accessible pricing, school partnerships, technological innovation, and world-class infrastructure development positions the Guwahati Planetarium as a critical catalyst for science education.
This concerted effort is not just about increasing visitor numbers; it's about nurturing the next generation of scientists, astronomers, and informed citizens by bringing the wonders of the cosmos within their reach. The upgrades promise to solidify its status as a must-visit educational and inspirational destination in Assam.
