News Summary
The Arizona Science Center is transforming its Dorrance Planetarium into the Dorrance DOME, featuring state-of-the-art dome technology for an immersive learning experience. Scheduled to open in 2025, the dome will enhance public engagement with science through advanced visuals and sound. It will offer seven daily showtimes, inclusive seating options, and programming that highlights significant scientific achievements, aiming to inspire future generations in the STEAM fields.
Phoenix Updates Planetarium Experience with High-Tech Renovation
The Arizona Science Center has unveiled plans to rebrand its Dorrance Planetarium as the Dorrance DOME, a transformation aimed at creating a state-of-the-art immersive learning and storytelling space. This significant upgrade will feature the latest in dome technology, allowing visitors to experience advanced 360-degree visuals and sound, enriching their understanding of science, art, and exploration.
Set to open on October 18, 2025, the Dorrance DOME represents a vital component of the science center’s Visitor Experience Renewal Plan, which prioritizes enhanced public engagement in science and technology. Advance ticket sales for this highly anticipated venue will begin on August 20, 2025.
State-of-the-Art Features
The Dorrance DOME will showcase Cosm’s groundbreaking CX System LED Dome technology, delivering 8K+ visual clarity through a high-resolution LED dome display. This innovative setup combines advanced Digistar planetarium software with a rich content ecosystem to provide visitors with an immersive experience characterized by visual depth and brightness.
Designed to accommodate 205 guests, the dome will feature 200 premium seats, including 112 fixed seats and 88 movable chairs, ensuring comfort for all attendees. Additionally, the design includes five ADA-compliant spaces to cater to visitors with accessibility needs, enhancing inclusivity within this advanced learning environment.
Engaging Programming
The daily schedule at the Dorrance DOME will include seven showtimes, comprising five unique shows alongside a complimentary 8K digital dome presentation. Programming will range from a live presentation of Arizona’s night skies to exciting explorations of groundbreaking scientific achievements, such as the quest to capture the first image of a black hole, accompanied by footage from global observatories.
Families and educational groups can look forward to animated journeys illustrating significant events like the Big Bang to the journey to low Earth orbit, as well as the cultural impact of pop art. The focus on storytelling through science emphasizes the Dorrance DOME’s mission to redefine education in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
Community Impact and Vision
The Dorrance DOME is anticipated to become a landmark destination for both local residents and visitors from around the world. The project received substantial support from philanthropists Jacquie and Bennett Dorrance, who played a pivotal role in making this ambitious initiative possible. Board of Trustees Chair Robert Miller expressed gratitude for their contributions, reflecting the importance of community engagement in realizing the Dorrance DOME’s vision.
Background Context
The transformation of the Dorrance Planetarium into the Dorrance DOME aligns with the Arizona Science Center’s long-term strategy to enhance public interest in science and technology through innovative, interactive experiences. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling, the Dorrance DOME aims to ignite curiosity and inspire future generations of Arizonans, delivering an educational experience that blends excitement with scientific inquiry.
For more information on the Dorrance DOME, as well as ticket purchasing options, interested visitors are encouraged to visit DorranceDOME.com.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Dorrance Planetarium Set to Reopen with Enhanced Features
Arizona Science Center Launches Community Engagement Initiative
Additional Resources
- AZ Big Media: Dorrance DOME Unveiling
- ABC15: Dorrance Planetarium Overview
- PRWeb: Advanced Digital Domes at Dorrance
- Signals AZ: Advanced Dorrance Planetarium
- AZ Central: Stargazing Locations in Arizona
- Wikipedia: Planetarium
- Google Search: Dorrance DOME
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Planetarium
- Google Scholar: Planetarium Technology
- Google News: Dorrance DOME
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
