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Read More on Birla Planetarium
History
B.M Birla planetarium Chennai inside the Periyar Science and Technology Center in Kotturpuram is one of the top Planetariums in India. It had been founded around 30 years ago, and still is considered to be one of the most modern planetariums in the country. It serves as a popular place for school trips in Chennai.
The Birla planetarium was established in the year 1983 and is fondly associated with great Indian industrialist, BM Birla. R Venkataraman, the then President of India inaugurated the planetarium on 11 May 1988. The government of Tamil Nadu has the responsibility of functioning the planetarium.
Architecture
After going under renovation at the beginning of May 2018, it was finally reopened after a long period of 18 months in November 2019. A hybrid digital optomechanical projector that offers a complete 360-degree immersive video effect was used in place of the mechanical projector. The replaced mechanical projector has been awarded the name “The Resting Giant” and it has been put on exhibit within the campus.
Activities
- You can check out the popular exhibits at the Planetarium like the Solar System, Sky and Seasons, Comets, Cycle of Stars, Man on the Moon, etc.
- Every day at specific timings in different languages the famous visual sky shows are conducted. A total of around 35 auto-visual programs are conducted on various topics.
- The Eco Park available here at the planetarium is something that you are not supposed to miss.
- The Traffic Park can be visited with children, it will entertain them while providing some knowledge.
- You can also see the Statues and Portraits of Famous Scientists being displayed there.
Tips for visiting
- Apart from attending exhibitions, you can also visit the parks in the area which are quite beautiful.
- Children can also ride on toy cars operated by automatic electronic signals.
- Alcohol is strictly prohibited inside the Planetarium.
- Please follow the rules and regulations and if you have any questions you can contact the planetarium authorities.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Birla Planetarium is during the winter season. You can also visit the place early to avoid crowds.
Nearby Atractions
- Guindy National Park
- San Thome Cathedral Basilica
- Marina Beach
- Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Burma Bazaar: This old market is located very close to the Planetarium. You can very easily purchase a lot of imported items from here. It is a very clean and well-maintained place.
- Phoenix Marketcity: This one of the largest malls in Chennai is also located very close to the Planetarium. You have access to literally everything that you want to purchase from clothes to liquor.
- ECR Market: This market offers fresh and healthy vegetables to all of its customers throughout the year. You won’t be disappointed after shopping from here.
Nearby Hotels
- Feathers- A Radha Hotel
- Radisson Blu Hotel GRT
- The Park Chennai
- The Raintree, St.Mary's Road
Interesting Facts About Birla Planetarium
- The planetarium has a hemispherical dome, which is a 360º sky theater.
- The Birla Planetarium in Chennai is one of the three planetariums in India.
- The galleries at the Planetarium have more than 500 exhibits to offer to visitors.
