Nehru Planetarium in Delhi is a popular destination for astronomy enthusiasts and families alike. A common question is, “Is Nehru Planetarium Open Today?” To answer this, it’s essential to know the Planetarium’s operating hours. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Planetarium remains closed on Mondays and national holidays. Therefore, if today is a Monday or a gazetted holiday, the answer to “is Nehru Planetarium open today?” is no.
The Nehru Planetarium, one of five in India named after the country’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, is housed within the Teen Murti Bhavan, Nehru’s former residence, which now also serves as a museum. Established by the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund in 1964 to promote astronomy education, the Planetarium was inaugurated in 1984 by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The Sky Theatre, a major attraction within the Planetarium, draws over 200,000 visitors annually with its captivating presentations on celestial bodies. Utilizing a combination of visual aids, including paintings, animations, video clips, and special effects, the dome-shaped theatre offers immersive shows about planets, constellations, and stars.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing India’s contributions to space exploration, including artifacts from Rakesh Sharma’s historic journey aboard Soyuz T-10, the mission that made him the first Indian in space. His space suit and mission journal are on display, providing a fascinating glimpse into this pioneering endeavor.
Following extensive renovations costing around Rs 11 crore, the Planetarium reopened in 2010 with enhanced facilities, including the “Megastar” Definiti optical star projector. This state-of-the-art device allows visitors to witness the breathtaking spectacle of up to 2 million stars simultaneously projected onto the dome.
The Planetarium also plays a crucial role in public education during significant astronomical events like solar eclipses. Providing special equipment such as solar filters, telescopes, and projection boxes, the Planetarium ensures a safe and informative viewing experience for all.
Besides the regular shows, the Planetarium hosts various educational programs and workshops for students and the general public, further contributing to its mission of promoting scientific literacy. These programs often include interactive sessions and demonstrations, making learning about the cosmos both fun and engaging.
To reach Nehru Planetarium, various transportation options are available. The nearest metro stations are Race Course Road and Udyog Bhavan on the Yellow Line, both within a 2km radius. DTC buses numbered 680, 720, 615, and 604 also have routes to the Planetarium. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber can readily be found or booked for convenient travel to Teen Murti Bhavan.
Remember to check the official website for show timings in Hindi and English, as well as ticket prices, which are currently Rs. 100 for adults, Rs. 70 for children aged 4-12, and Rs. 50 for school students. 3D show prices differ. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a potentially more enjoyable visit.
While planning your visit, keep in mind that bringing outside food and beverages is usually prohibited. Photography restrictions may also apply in certain areas. It’s always a good idea to confirm these details beforehand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. So, if you’re wondering “Is Nehru Planetarium open today?”, check the day of the week and any holiday announcements. Enjoy your cosmic journey!
