The Odisha state government has entered into a significant partnership with the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), operating under the Ministry of Culture, to undertake a comprehensive modernization project for the Pathani Samanta Planetarium in Bhubaneswar. This collaboration aims to transform the existing facility into a world-class center for astronomy education and public engagement.
Major Upgradation Project Underway
According to official sources, the memorandum of understanding was formally signed last week, marking the beginning of an ambitious one-and-a-half-year renovation period. During this time, the planetarium will remain closed to the public to facilitate uninterrupted construction and technological enhancements.
Urmiprava Maharana, Director of the Pathani Samanta Planetarium, confirmed that civil construction work has already commenced. She elaborated on the timeline, stating, "While physical construction is progressing, the software upgradation component will require additional time. The NCSM is expected to submit a detailed project report outlining all technical specifications within the next six months."
Technological Transformation and New Features
The Science and Technology Department has revealed exciting details about the planned upgrades. The centerpiece will be a new hybrid planetarium system that involves retrofitting advanced technology into the existing dome structure and framework. This approach preserves architectural heritage while integrating cutting-edge educational tools.
Additional features planned for the revamped facility include:
- An outdoor light and sound show with original astronomy-themed content, designed to be easily updatable with new material as needed
- An interactive science gallery that will engage visitors through hands-on exhibits
- A space simulator and virtual reality experience that will provide immersive educational opportunities
Historical Significance and Visitor Impact
The Pathani Samanta Planetarium, named in honor of the renowned Odia astronomer Pathani Samanta, first opened its doors to the public on January 8, 1990. Over the decades, it has established itself as a crucial institution for promoting science education, particularly in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science.
The facility's impact is demonstrated by its impressive visitor numbers, with 112,542 people attending shows in the previous year alone. Currently operating daily except Mondays, the planetarium offers educational presentations in three languages: Odia, English, and Hindi, significantly expanding its outreach across different demographic groups.
Expanding Astronomy Education Across Odisha
In a related development, the state government has announced plans to establish a new planetarium at Khandapada in Nayagarh district, the birthplace of Pathani Samanta. This secondary facility will be developed with a budget allocation of ₹8.5 crore, with the foundation stone already laid at the historic site.
This dual initiative—both upgrading the existing Bhubaneswar facility and creating a new center in Nayagarh—demonstrates the government's commitment to strengthening astronomy education and scientific awareness throughout Odisha. The partnership with NCSM brings national expertise to what promises to be a transformative project for science education in eastern India.
