Dr. T. M. A. Pai Planetarium, Manipal
The planetarium dedicated to Dr. T.M.A. Pai (Founder, Indian doctor, educationist, banker and philanthropist ) is located on the banks of the Manipal Lake near the Manipal Junior College. Planetarium is owned by Manipal Institute for development of Human Resources and is operated on a not for profit basis. It is currently managed by the Manipal Centre for Natural Sciences, Centre of Excellence, Manipal Academy of Higher Education. This project was initiated by Sri. T. Ashok Pai commenced in the year 1997 and completed in 1998. For this purpose 5 acres of land was provided by The Government of Karnataka in a picturesque part of the campus. The planetarium is the focal point for all activities related to science outreach and we expect to provide challenging and unique ways to do this. Popularization of science around current events is very important and it cannot be overstressed. Every young person is fascinated by the night sky and may go on to become gifted astronomers. At our Planetarium, the availability of professional scientists working at the forefront of research in some of the most exciting areas in contemporary science adds an extra dimension which we hope will stimulate some of the brightest minds to become professional researchers. Faculty and students interact with the public and give spontaneous popular talks on current events as they unfold. The inner diameter of the planetarium dome is 8 meters, and the seating capacity is 70 persons. A Carl Zeiss ZKPII Model planetarium projector was the first instrument installed in the sky-theatre and has been used since its inception to enthrall school children and adults alike. Currently the sky-theatre has been upgraded with second projector, a Mirror Dome projection system. Both systems are in use. Various exhibits such as Vastness of the Universe, Mars Panorama, cross-sectional view of a telescope and a scaled down model of the PSLV are displayed in the lobby area. A few backlit displays of spectacular astronomical objects are mounted on the walls. The addition of new exhibits is a continuous process. New shows are also envisaged. A 12 inch telescope, two 3 inch telescopes and binoculars are in use for sky watching. Amateur student groups are planned to encourage activities in bird watching, amateur astronomy, natural history, biodiversity and conservation of the Western ghats.
Show timings: English: 10:30 am Kannada:11:30am Special shows: In the afternoon on request and for group bookings. Tickets: The charges applicable from November 2014 are Rs.20/- per ticket; Rs.10/- for students. Bookings: Minimum booking for forenoon session for 15 members or a fee of Rs 150/-. Minimum booking for the afternoon session for 30 members or a fee of Rs 300/-. Entry fees may be revised as necessary. Contact information: 0820 2571922 Email: planetarium@manipal.edu