For generations, the night sky has inspired poets, dreamers, and scientists alike. But now, Pune’s residents and tourists can go beyond simply stargazing; they can journey through the universe itself. On October 18, the Modern Astrotourism Planetarium (Astro Dome) was inaugurated at Panshet Boat Club, ushering in a new chapter in India’s space education and tourism. The planetarium, developed with support from the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), was inaugurated by Hanumantji Hede, Senior Manager of MTDC, in the presence of senior astronomers, tourism officials, and special guests including Hemantji Vavle, Lahuji Jori, Sanjay Naik, Ankush Pasalkar, Satish Gavane (PMPML), and Forest Officer Umbarkar. The event drew a large crowd of space lovers, families, and students, all eager to experience the wonders of the cosmos.

Panshet: Where Nature Meets the Universe

Set against the serene backdrop of the Panshet Dam and the reserved forests of Rajgad Taluka, the Astro Dome finds itself in one of the most scenic and naturally dark-sky regions of Maharashtra.  The minimal light pollution in this area makes it a perfect spot for celestial observation, a rarity in most urban environments. The combination of water, forest, and sky makes Panshet not just a tourist destination but a living classroom for the universe.

Three Shows, One Universe of Discovery

The Astro Dome will run three 40-minute shows daily, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., in both Marathi and English, catering to a wide audience. Each show explores a different aspect of the cosmos, blending science with storytelling. The Astro Dome offers an extraordinary celestial experience through its three captivating shows designed to blend science with wonder. 

The first, “Star Life & Black Holes,” takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the life cycle of stars from their birth in cosmic nurseries to their explosive deaths as supernovae and their mysterious transformation into black holes. It reveals how the universe continually recycles its own matter, creating a profound connection between cosmic science and spiritual reflection. 

The second show, “Our Solar System & Chandrayaan,” explores Earth’s celestial neighborhood, guiding audiences through the planets, constellations, and India’s remarkable space achievements, including the Chandrayaan missions. It also helps visitors learn how to identify stars and constellations visible from the Indian night sky. 

Finally, “Milky Way Explorations” carries viewers far beyond the solar system into the immense expanse of our galaxy. From its graceful spiral arms to the enigmatic black hole at its center, the program explains the Milky Way’s structure, evolution, and place among billions of other galaxies, inviting everyone to see the universe as both vast and beautifully connected.

Learning Under the Stars

What makes the Astro Dome special is its hands-on approach. Visitors can stargaze through powerful telescopes and experience real-time celestial views from the Sun’s glowing flares in the morning to the Moon’s craters and faraway planets at night. For Pune, this initiative marks a rare intersection of education, science, and tourism. The project also aligns with MTDC’s vision to promote astrotourism in Maharashtra, encouraging visitors to explore destinations beyond traditional hill stations and beaches.

A Spark for Future Scientists

The Astro Dome isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a spark for young minds. Schools and colleges across Pune are already planning educational trips to the planetarium. For many children, this will be their first close look at planets, nebulae, and galaxies—an experience that could ignite lifelong curiosity. As the sun set over Panshet, telescopes pointed skyward, and visitors gathered for their first guided stargazing session, one couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. 

The Astro Dome represents more than a building; it’s a bridge between curiosity and discovery. For Pune, this planetarium is a shining reminder that even in our fast-paced, tech-driven world, there’s nothing more humbling or inspiring than looking up at the stars.