Charleston Planetarium Dome

Planetarium Dome & Opening News

The Charleston Planetarium currently features a state-of-the-art inflatable dome, spanning 23 feet in diameter and accommodating 50 chairs. Constructed with advanced materials and cutting-edge technology, the dome offers an uninterrupted hemispherical projection surface.  The planetarium dome theatre is installed in Citadel Mall in Charleston, SC. Tickets are available for individual show times, and yes, we cater to field trips.

FUNDRAISING: We are actively raising funds to establish South Carolina’s first stand-alone brick-and-mortar Artemis-era planetarium in Charleston.

NEWS: The planetarium has been forced to move its grand opening due to a delay in the remodeling for safety modifications. Originally planned to open in January 2025, the Charleston Planetarium’s estimated debut will now be in February 2025.

Explore Our Planetarium Shows

Our planetarium offers an immersive experience that brings the wonders of the universe to life. Each show is a captivating hour-long journey, designed to inspire and educate visitors of all ages. "Alien Life" explores the possibilities of extraterrestrial existence, delving into the latest scientific discoveries and theories about life beyond Earth.

"Cosmic Castaways" takes you on a mesmerizing adventure through the cosmos, following the fascinating tales of stars and planets adrift in the vast expanse of space. "The Dark Matter Secret" unravels the mysteries of the universe's most elusive substance, shedding light on its profound impact on the cosmos. Join us for these extraordinary shows and discover the marvels of the universe like never before.

Photograph by Clint Shimer, Astrophotographer

BENEFITS OF A PLANETARIUM

An Immersive Experience

The planetarium portrays our universe in ways that flat-screen films cannot. Though similar to the immersion of virtual
reality (VR), the planetarium provides a shared experience, allowing visitors to engage with the presenter and each other.

Spatial Freedom

Planetariums allow audiences to travel to view the universe from different vantage points. Digital planetariums
can speed learners through time and allow observations from different locations on the Earth’s surface.

Inspirational Environment

Every planetarium immerses visitors in a 3D environment that evokes realism. The incredible number and depth of stars in a truly dark sky immediately capture attention and evoke awe.

Lifelong Learning

This kind of informal science learning experience supports lifelong science learning by generating interest in science, improving academic achievement in students, and developing skills and understanding of the natural world.

An Inclusive Environment

Modern planetarium designs offer a variety of solutions to enable accessibility for visitors with physical and sensory disabilities. Seating can include spaces for wheelchair users and companions. Well-designed lighting can support both comfort and safety.

Dynamic Learning

A planetarium shows the locations and movements of the planets and other objects in the universe like stars, comets, asteroids, constellations, galaxies, and other space phenomena.

Non-Profit Status

Charleston Planetarium Society is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to science education.

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