South Africa’s largest planetarium is set to reopen in February 2025 with a fully modernized digital dome that will offer stunning visuals of the solar system, enhancing the learning experience for visitors of all ages.
The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, formerly known as the Wits University Planetarium, was unveiled to the public on Wednesday with demonstrations showcasing the new technology. The upgraded facility features 10 state-of-the-art digital projectors and surround sound, creating an immersive experience for star-gazers and tech enthusiasts.
Moumita Aich, head of the digital dome, said the new technology will transform the educational experience, especially for young children and adults who are often distracted by their mobile screens. “This is screen time, but you actually get to learn a lot in that 20 or 30 minutes,” Aich said. “You will actually learn a lot from that.”
Since its opening in 1960, the planetarium has attracted tens of thousands of schoolchildren and aspiring astronomers, offering them a chance to explore the wonders of the solar system. The renovation is expected to attract even more visitors and will also serve as a research hub, allowing scientists to showcase their findings on the planetarium’s 360-degree screen.
The refurbished dome promises to become a central space for both public education and scientific discovery in the heart of Johannesburg.
