MYSURU: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated COSMOS-Mysuru, India's first LED dome planetarium on Friday (November 13) at the University of Mysore campus, marking a new development in the country's astronomy education and scientific outreach.
Developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in collaboration with the University of Mysore, the facility is located at the foothills of Chamundi Hills. It features a 15-metre tilted dome comprising around 6,150 LED panels with 4.2 crore individual LEDs.
Unlike conventional planetariums that use projectors to display images on a passive dome, the new facility uses computer-controlled LED panels to produce visuals directly on the dome.
The technology offers 8K resolution and enhanced contrast, providing visitors with an immersive experience of celestial objects and astronomical phenomena.
The Sky Theatre, which can accommodate around 160 people, will screen professionally produced astronomy programmes as well as an introductory film titled 'Our Home, Our Cosmos'.
The 12-minute presentation explores Mysuru's cultural heritage and its historical connection with science and astronomy. The shows will be available in Kannada, English and Hindi.
The facility also houses exhibition halls, a museum featuring astronomy models and artefacts, a lecture hall, a training centre and interactive outdoor exhibits.
Speaking at the inauguration, Modi highlighted the close relationship between science and spirituality in India, saying that the two go hand in hand.
The planetarium is also the outcome of a three-year astronomy education and outreach initiative undertaken by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Mysuru and neighbouring rural areas.
During this period, more than 150 programmes were organised, reaching over 40,000 people through school activities, workshops, public lectures and online sessions.
The institute plans to use the facility for academic training, astronomy data-analysis programmes and educational activities for students and teachers. The centre is expected to strengthen public engagement with astronomy and encourage scientific curiosity among young people.
(With inputs from the media reports)