Dorrance Planetarium Set to Reopen with Enhanced Features

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The newly upgraded Dorrance Planetarium features a stunning 8K+ LED dome.

News Summary

The Dorrance Planetarium at the Arizona Science Center will reopen soon, featuring a state-of-the-art LED dome with 8K+ resolution and increased seating capacity. The facility aims to enhance educational experiences for visitors through immersive storytelling that combines entertainment with scientific discovery.

Phoenix—The Dorrance Planetarium at the Arizona Science Center is set to reopen on October 18, 2025, following an extended closure that began in spring 2024. This highly anticipated reopening is part of the Arizona Science Center’s Visitor Experience Renewal Plan, aimed at enhancing educational experiences for visitors.

The planetarium will unveil its upgraded LED dome, which boasts a stellar resolution of 8K+, giving viewers twice the clarity of traditional high-definition televisions. This upgrade promises to significantly enhance the visual experience for audiences, making it an exciting time for astronomy enthusiasts and families alike.

In addition to the new visual capabilities, the planetarium’s LED dome will be powered by the advanced CX system from Cosm. This new technology delivers a remarkable brightness, estimated to be 100 times greater than that of a standard projector, thus facilitating high-quality visuals that bring the cosmos to life as never before.

To accommodate a diverse audience, the planetarium will feature a seating capacity of 194 guests. This includes 106 premium fixed seats designed for comfort and an additional 88 mobile seats that allow for flexibility during events and presentations.

Tickets for the Dorrance Planetarium will become available for purchase starting in August 2025. Visitors eager to learn more can find additional information on the Arizona Science Center’s official website. For those interested in securing early access and updates, signing up for the planetarium’s newsletter is recommended.

The reopening of the Dorrance Planetarium signifies a major leap forward in the delivery of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education. The Arizona Science Center’s President and CEO highlighted the focus on creating immersive storytelling experiences that combine entertainment with scientific discovery, thereby reimagining how learning can occur in a planetarium setting.

Located at 600 E. Washington St., the Arizona Science Center has long served as a central hub for education and exploration in Phoenix. Its commitment to enhancing visitor experiences is evident in the upgrades being made at the planetarium, which has been a cherished addition to the center since its opening.

This reopening marks an exciting chapter for the Arizona Science Center as it invites guests back to explore the wonders of the universe in an interactive and cutting-edge environment. The facility aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, artists, and innovators through high-quality programming and experiences that underline the importance of STEAM education.

As the countdown to the anticipated opening day begins, excitement grows within the community for the return of this iconic venue. It reflects the broader commitment of educational institutes to embrace new technologies and enhance learning opportunities.

The Dorrance Planetarium is prepared to usher in a new era of engagement with the universe, inviting everyone to witness the majesty of space through enhanced visuals and educational experiences that promise to be both enlightening and entertaining.