Johannesburg’s Wits Planetarium reopens with new digital dome

The largest planetarium in sub-Saharan Africa is set to reopen in Johannesburg early next year, featuring a fully upgraded digital dome that will offer stunning visuals of the solar system.

On Wednesday, visitors got a preview of the newly renamed Wits Anglo American Digital Dome at Wits University, where demonstrations showcased the immersive experience. The dome is equipped with 10 state-of-the-art digital projectors and surround sound to bring the cosmos to life.

Moumita Aich, head of the dome, said the new technology will transform learning for both children and adults, who are often absorbed in their cellphones. “This is screen time, but you’ll actually learn a lot in 20 or 30 minutes,” Aich explained.

Since its opening in 1960, the planetarium has attracted tens of thousands of school children and aspiring astronomers, offering them a chance to explore the wonders of the solar system. With the renovation, the planetarium aims to inspire even more people to engage with the science of the universe, while also providing a research space for scientists to showcase their discoveries on the 360-degree screen.

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