Bhubaneswar is home to the Pathani Samanta Planetarium, established in 1990 by the Science and Technology Department of the Odisha Government. This planetarium, one of the ten in India, aims to raise awareness about night sky viewing through audiovisual programs and displays of astronomical devices.
Covering 5 acres, the Pathani Samanta Planetarium is a popular tourist attraction that offers regular shows on Space Science, Astrophysics, and Astronomy for students and the general public, helping to enhance understanding of celestial bodies.
History of Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar
- The Pathani Samanta Planetarium honors the renowned astronomer from Odisha, Pathani Samanta, known for his innovative studies in astronomy using traditional methods. He crafted instruments from simple materials like bamboo pipes to observe planetary movements.
- Construction of the planetarium started in 1986 under the Science and Technology Department of the Odisha Government and opened to the public in 1990. Initially equipped with an opto-mechanical system, it transitioned to a fully digital platform in 2012, enhancing the viewing experience with 3D motion effects.
- Since 2007, the planetarium has hosted the ‘Young Astronomer Talent Search’ (YATS) in collaboration with TATA STEEL, inviting higher secondary students to participate in an essay competition on Space Science and Astronomy. The top 20 students are honored by the Chief Minister of Odisha in a December exhibition and have the chance to visit leading space organizations the following year, free of charge.
Architecture of Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar
- The planetarium features impressive round architecture topped with a dome. Its fully air-conditioned auditorium accommodates 178 people for shows. The campus includes an astronomy park with a statue of Pathani Samanta, a sundial, and a space for evening open-air light and sound programs. Other facilities include a canteen, a bookshop, a library, and a well-kept lawn
Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar Entry Fee
- 30 per person for Adults
- 20 per person for Children
- Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar Phone – 0674 2567 653
- Rating: 4/3 star Based on total 4.9k reviews
Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar Address:
Apollo Hospital, Acharya Vihar, Doordarshan Colony, Gajapati Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751015, India
How to Reach Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar
- Bhubaneswar is easily accessible through regular train, rail, and bus services. Upon arrival, visitors can hire a private taxi from various car rental companies for convenient transportation within the city.
- The Pathani Samanta Planetarium is approximately 5.6 kilometers from Biju Patnaik International Airport, taking about 10 minutes to reach. It is also about 4.3 kilometers from the Bhubaneswar Railway Station and 5.4 kilometers from the Baramunda ISBT Bus Stand, both reachable in 10-12 minutes. Tourists can use private taxis, auto rickshaws, or local buses to access the planetarium easily.
Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar Timings
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 02:00 pm – 06.00 pm |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 02.00 pm – 06.00 pm |
| Wednesday | 02.00 pm – 06.00 pm |
| Thursday | 02.00 pm – 06.00 pm |
| Friday | 02.00 pm – 06.00 pm |
| Saturday | 02.00 pm – 06.00 pm |
Show Timings:
| Oriya | 2:00 pm & 3:00 pm |
| Hindi | 3:00 pm & 4:00 pm |
| English | 4:00 pm & 5:00 pm |
Things to do in Pathani Samanta Planetarium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
- The Pathani Samanta Planetarium in Bhubaneswar offers an exciting chance to explore celestial objects. Visitors can enjoy captivating shows and thematic displays of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars. The campus also features a library for those interested in astronomy. Additionally, enthusiasts are invited to use the sundial to calculate the time based on the sun’s position.
Things to keep in mind While Visiting Pathani Samanta Planetarium Bhubaneswar
- Keep mobile phones on ‘silent’ or ‘off.’
- Do not touch planetarium equipment.
- No food or drinks allowed.
- Movement during the show is restricted.
- Photography is allowed.
Conclusion
The Pathani Samanta Planetarium is a notable center for exploring space and science, named after the renowned Indian astronomer Pathani Samanta. With engaging exhibits and educational shows on astronomy, it sparks curiosity in visitors of all ages. The planetarium promotes scientific awareness and inspires a passion for space exploration, making it a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the cosmos.
