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Famous Planetariums

Planetariums are places you can go to get a sense of the universe. They help envision an existence beyond limitation and stir the imagination. Planetariums are made up of projected light on domed ceilings in enclosed buildings. The light projected often comes from lasers and machines at the height of technology. However, they have been around for almost 100 years. You can find some of the famous planetariums in major cities in the United States.

Griffith Observatory
- The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles California, has one of the largest domes in the world. The dome is almost 75 feet tall. In 2006, the Griffith observatory was renovated at a cost of $93 million. The Griffith Observatory can seat 300 people. Its MARK IV star projector from Germany is considered the most advanced in the world.
The Alder Planetarium
- The Alder Planetarium in Chicago, Illinois, is perhaps the most historical of all planetariums. Built in 1930, it was the first built in the western hemisphere. The Alder Planetarium is even a national historic landmark. Two domes, one which is the original and one that has been updated to modern technology, stand side by side. The Alder Planetarium offers space camp programs for youth and provides education to the public with an array of special exhibits.
Strasenburgh Planetarium
- The Strasenburgh planetarium in New York City opened in 1968. It utilized the first MARK IV projector, which can project 8,900 stars, moons and planets not visible to the naked eye. It is also the first planetarium to be automated by a computer. The Strasenburgh planetarium also has resources for teachers and youth camp programs.
Albert Einstein Planetarium
- The Albert Einstein Planetarium in Washington D.C is perhaps the most famous of all planetariums. It is located at the Smithsonian institute. There are many presentations by the Smithsonian in conjunction with the planetarium. A Zeiss Mark IV projector, was donated from West Germany as a gift for the United States bicentennial. The sound system is also amazing with a six-channel surround sound.

Astronomy