Johannesburg’s Wits University planetarium, home to the largest planetarium in sub-Saharan Africa, is set to reopen in February 2025 after a major renovation. The newly modernized Wits Anglo American Digital Dome will feature cutting-edge technology, offering expansive visuals of the solar system on a 360-degree screen.
On Wednesday, visitors were treated to a preview of the dome’s capabilities, which include 10 state-of-the-art digital projectors and surround sound, delivering an immersive experience for star-gazers and tech enthusiasts alike.
Moumita Aich, head of the Digital Dome, emphasized how the new technology will transform the learning experience for both children and adults, who are often distracted by their mobile devices.
“This is screen time, but you actually get to learn a lot from the whole 20 or 30 minutes. You will really learn a lot,” Aich said.
Since its opening in 1960, the planetarium has welcomed tens of thousands of students and aspiring astronomers, providing them with a closer look at the wonders of the universe. The renovation will not only expand access to this educational experience but also create a research space where scientists can showcase their findings on the immersive digital screen.
