International Day of Planetariums

The International Day of Planetariums is celebrated annually on May 7, commemorating the opening of the first projection planetarium at the Deutsches Museum in Munich on May 7, 1925. This day honors the role of planetariums in making astronomy accessible and inspiring curiosity about the cosmos.​

History of International Day of Planetariums

The first planetarium projector was developed by Carl Zeiss in Jena, Germany, and unveiled in 1923. It was installed at the Deutsches Museum in Munich, opened to the public on May 7, 1925. This marked a significant advancement in public science education, allowing audiences to experience the night sky indoors.​

In 1991, the Italian Association of Planetaria initiated the Day of Planetariums, supported by the International Planetarium Society (IPS). Initially observed on the second Sunday of March, the date was changed to May 7 in 2024 to align with the historical opening of the first planetarium. The centennial celebration in 2025 marks 100 years since this milestone in astronomical education.​ ¹

Why is International Day of Planetariums important?

Planetariums serve as gateways to the universe, offering immersive experiences that educate and inspire. They provide a unique environment where people of all ages can learn about astronomy, space exploration, and the wonders of the cosmos.​

In an era where light pollution obscures our view of the stars, planetariums play a crucial role in reconnecting us with the night sky. They foster a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging exploration and a more understanding of our place in the universe.​

• Promotes science education and literacy.
• Inspires interest in astronomy and space exploration.
• Provides accessible experiences of the night sky.
• Encourages community engagement through educational programs.
• Celebrates the history and advancement of astronomical tools.​

How to Celebrate International Day of Planetariums

Celebrating this day can be as simple as visiting a local planetarium to attend a show or lecture. Many planetariums host special events, workshops, and exhibitions on May 7 to mark the occasion.​

For those unable to visit in person, virtual planetarium tours and online astronomy resources offer alternative ways to engage with the cosmos. Sharing experiences and knowledge about planetariums on social media can also help raise awareness and appreciation for these institutions.​

• Attend a planetarium show or lecture.
• Participate in astronomy workshops or stargazing events.
• Explore virtual planetarium experiences online.
• Share your planetarium experiences on social media.
• Support local planetariums through donations or volunteering.​

The International Day of Planetariums —it’s a global invitation. Each year on May 7, planetariums of all sizes, from every corner of the world, are encouraged to open their doors and share the magic of the cosmos. Every planetarium becomes a beacon of curiosity, inspiring a shared wonder for the stars.

In a world where light pollution hides the night sky from millions, planetariums offer something extraordinary—they “capture the stars” and bring them down to Earth. For many, it’s the only way to truly see the heavens. And that’s the heart of the International Day of Planetariums: making sure everyone, everywhere, knows these sky domes exist and that learning about the universe can be a lifelong joy.

The event also raises awareness about light pollution, encouraging planetariums to educate visitors about the fading night sky. Collaborations with dark sky reserves and local astronomy groups are popular ways to bring this issue to light. But perhaps the most beautiful part of International Day of Planetariums is the spirit of global unity—planetariums are urged to partner internationally, exchanging shows, stories, and even drawings from children across cultures, all under the same metaphorical sky.

International Day of Planetariums — it’s more than a day — it’s a movement to reconnect humanity with the stars.

International Day of Planetariums Dates Table

1. https://www.ips-planetarium.org/page/IDP[↩]