Kozhikode Planetarium Unveils Cutting-Edge Astronomy Gallery
New Exhibit Promises Immersive Journey Through Cosmos
A state-of-the-art astronomy gallery is set to open its doors in Kozhikode, India, offering visitors of all ages an engaging and educational exploration of the universe. The new facility aims to demystify complex astronomical concepts through interactive displays and multimedia experiences.
Interactive Learning Experience
The approximately ₹1.5 crore gallery is designed to go beyond a traditional exhibition, providing a deep and captivating learning environment. Visitors will be able to trace the evolution of astronomical understanding, from ancient observations to modern discoveries. The gallery explores fundamental questions about the cosmos, including the potential for life on other planets and the nature of stars, seasons, and galaxies.
The gallery’s exhibits begin with a tribute to pioneering scholars like **Aristotle**, **Ptolemy**, **Arya Bhatta**, **Bhaskara**, and **Copernicus**. An animated model of **Maharaja Savai Jai Singh** of Jaipur’s Grand Equatorial Sundial will be on display, alongside a life-size statue of **Galileo Galilei** observing the heavens through a telescope. The evolution of telescope technology, models of the solar system, and 3D visualizations of celestial objects are also featured.
Exploring Cosmic Phenomena
The Big-Bang Theory is presented on a video wall, while a dedicated booth demonstrates the gravitational forces of each planet in our solar system. Interactive kiosks delve into advanced topics such as multi-wavelength astronomy, exoplanets, astrobiology, and **Einstein’s** spacetime curve. Scale models of the Hubble Space Telescope, its repair missions, and the James Webb Telescope are also included.
According to NASA, over 5,500 exoplanets have been confirmed as of May 2024, highlighting the growing field of exoplanet research and the increasing possibility of discovering life beyond Earth. NASA Exoplanet Archive
The inauguration will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 10 a.m., with **P.A. Mohamed Riyas**, Minister for Tourism and Public Works, leading the ceremony. **Beena Philip**, the Mayor, will preside over the event.
This new gallery promises to be a significant addition to the Regional Science Centre and Planetarium, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the wonders of the universe among visitors of all ages.
