In the heart of Wolfsburg, nestled within the serene Bürgerpark, lies the Planetarium Wolfsburg, a celestial haven for astronomy enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Since its inauguration on December 1, 1983, this remarkable institution has earned its place among the top ten largest planetariums in Germany, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through the cosmos under its impressive 15-meter diameter dome.
The inception of the Planetarium Wolfsburg is a story of international collaboration and visionary planning. It all began with a unique agreement between Volkswagen AG and the German Democratic Republic in 1977. Volkswagen, in exchange for 10,000 VW Golf I cars, received machinery and a planetarium projector from VEB Carl Zeiss Jena, valued at 1.5 million DM. This projector, along with the planetarium's construction, was gifted to the city of Wolfsburg by Volkswagen in honor of the city's 40th anniversary.
The architectural and engineering marvel was brought to life by a team led by Gertrud Schille from VEB Carl Zeiss Jena, with further development by Roland Hesse from Wolfsburg and architects from the Braunschweig School. The result was a distinctive three-quarter dome, an innovative design that required a reinforcing ring beam at the equator for stability. The dome, constructed using a novel wet-spraying technique by Ulrich Müther's VEB Spezialbetonbau, was later adorned with blue enameled sheets, giving it its iconic appearance.
Stepping into the Planetarium Wolfsburg, visitors are greeted by the awe-inspiring dome that houses the main projection area. With seating for 140 people, this dome creates an immersive experience, projecting over 9,000 stars along with the sun, moon, and planets, replicating the mesmerizing beauty of a clear, starlit night. The original projector, a Carl Zeiss Spacemaster, served faithfully for 13 years, hosting around 10,000 shows for 650,000 visitors before being upgraded to the Starmaster model in 1996. This new projector, equipped with fiber optics, video, and slide systems, as well as digital sound, marked a new era of stellar presentations.
The planetarium continued to evolve, embracing technological advancements to enhance the visitor experience. In 2010, it became the world's first planetarium to implement Carl Zeiss Jena's Fulldome projection technology, featuring six Velvet projectors capable of creating a fully immersive digital environment. This cutting-edge system seamlessly synchronizes with the Starmaster, offering breathtaking visuals that transport audiences to the far reaches of the universe.
In 2012, the planetarium introduced the Space Lab, an interactive exhibit in the foyer. Supported by the Wolfsburg AG and designed by Volke Kommunikationsdesign, the Space Lab features touchscreens and a large touch table, allowing visitors to explore astronomical topics, play quizzes, and navigate the solar system. This hands-on approach to learning makes the wonders of the cosmos accessible to all ages.
The Planetarium Wolfsburg offers a rich and varied program, catering to different interests and age groups. Seven distinct categories ensure there is something for everyone:
Astronomical Programs: These shows utilize advanced planetarium technology to depict the night sky with stunning accuracy, highlighting significant constellations and celestial events.
Children's Cosmos: Tailored for young explorers aged four and above, these shows feature beloved characters like the Rainbow Fish and Lars the Little Polar Bear, taking children on magical journeys through space.
Live Star Shows: Conducted by knowledgeable staff, these presentations provide updates on the latest discoveries in astronomy and space exploration, focusing on a different astronomical theme each month.
Live Concerts and Readings: Experience the magic of live performances under the starry dome, with musicians, authors, and artists creating unforgettable moments.
Music Shows: Combining rock and pop music with the immersive Fulldome projection, these shows offer a unique and captivating way to experience music.
Specials and Audio Dramas: Enjoy popular stories like The Little Prince brought to life in the planetarium's unique setting.
Scientific Lectures: Quarterly lectures delve into various astronomical topics, providing in-depth insights into the mysteries of the universe.
The Planetarium Wolfsburg is not just a place for stargazing; it also plays a significant role in the community. In 2016, it welcomed approximately 47,300 visitors, including 9,000 students, making it a key educational resource. The planetarium is also a designated Geopoint of the Harz - Braunschweiger Land - Ostfalen Geopark and lends its name to Landmark 25 of the Geopark.
For those seeking a truly unique experience, the planetarium offers the opportunity to get married under the stars. The dome provides a magical backdrop for weddings, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Additionally, the planetarium's foyer houses a fragment of the Ribbeck Meteorite, which fell to Earth in January 2024. This rare exhibit offers a tangible connection to the cosmos, inspiring wonder and curiosity.
The Planetarium Wolfsburg is more than just a place to observe the stars; it is a gateway to the universe, a center for learning and discovery, and a community hub that brings people together under the night sky. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious visitor, a trip to the Planetarium Wolfsburg promises an unforgettable journey through the wonders of space.
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