New ways to see the Universe

Stardome Observatory & Planetarium in One Tree Hill Domain, Auckland is about to have a major upgrade to the technology which operates and drives its Planetarium. After the upgrade Stardome will have world leading technology which will give Aucklanders the chance to see some incredible sights from all around the Universe – all without having to leave town.

The Planetarium technology upgrade - funded by grants from Regional Facilities Auckland and Sir Po-shing Woo - means the space-themed shows and experiences on offer at the Stardome will now be visible in glorious high-resolution as they are projected onto the full-dome ceiling right above the audience. 

The Planetarium itself will be closed between 12th & 21st October while the technology is refreshed, and when it re-open’s the Stardome – NZ’s largest capacity Planetarium - will be capable of offering shows that will use the most advanced virtual Astronomy data for Planetariums in the world.

Full of new ways to see the Universe such as visiting the known exoplanets (planets outside our Solar System), soaring over the surfaces of the planets in our solar system and exploring their terrains up-close (including Earth), looking right inside planets to see what’s happening at their core, and even controlling your trip around space with an Xbox 360 Kinetic Interface.     

Stardome are also giving their popular rock music shows a massive makeover, with the addition of lights and lasers to complement the mega surround-sound.  Prepare to experience your favourite rock music like never before, with brilliant 5.1 surround sound, ultra-high resolution projections, lasers and lighting effects, developed by a lighting design team whose credits include Miss Saigon.

“This new technology helps us to give our visitors from all over Auckland and beyond, the chance to explore space like never before, and with the addition of the new Music and Laser Light Shows there’s something for everyone” says David Houldsworth the Stardome’s Chief Executive Offer.

These new eye-popping ways to visit the outer reaches of space will be developed over time and new shows released regularly.
 
To find out more and to book into a show at Stardome call 09 624 1246 or visit www.stardome.org.nz.

ENDS

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