Punekars, get ready for a new era where scientific knowledge meets astronomy-related curiosity. The city has received a new planetarium by the name of the Modern Astrotourism Planetarium (Astro Dome) at Panshet Boat Club. It opened its doors to the public on Saturday, October 4, 2025, and promises to promote astrotourism among both young minds and adults. Here’s all you need to know about the new astrotourism planetarium that is set to mark a new era for astronomy geeks!
Modern Astrotourism Planetarium At Panshet Boat Club
Inauguration Of The Modern Astrotourism Planetarium
The Modern Astrotourism Planetarium or the Astro Dome was inaugurated by Hanumantji Hede, Senior Manager of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). Along with him, senior astronomers, tourism professionals, and other officials including the likes of Lahuji Jori, Sanjay Naik, Hemantji Vavle, Ankush Pasalkar, etc were present. The Astro Dome was opened to the public on October 4, 2025, with a large crowd attending the inauguration itself.
Shows At The Astro Dome
When it comes to the Astro Dome, it is equipped with three astro-shows daily. Each of the shows is available in both English and Marathi languages and lasts for about 40 minutes. The Astro Dome is open from 10 AM to 9 PM currently, allowing visitors to visit the planetarium not just in the morning hours but also late in the evening.
Here are details of the three astro-shows that have been curated to spark the curiosity of enthusiastic visitors.
Show 1: Star Life Cycle & Black Holes
In this show, visitors will get a glimpse into how stars are born and how they evolve and die. They’ll get information about different celestial bodies like supernovae, red giants, and neutron giants. Besides that, they’ll also get to learn about the formation and effects of black holes on the universe.
Show 2: Our Solar System, Horizons & Chandrayaan
Visitors will get to discover visible stars, planets, and constellations, as well as sky observation techniques. They’ll also be able to explore human lunar missions, including Apollo 11, Neil Armstrong’s iconic moon landing, and the challenges faced during the mission.
Show 3: Eight Scopes of the Milky Way
Time to explore the structure, size, and parts of the Milky Way, including its spiral arms and central black hole. Visitors will get a unique experience as they learn about the age, movement, and the development of galaxies, including the Milky Way.
Hands-On Astronomical Experience At The Modern Astrotourism Planetarium
The Astro Dome will not only have three astro-shows showing the visitors a visual glimpse of the cosmos but also have telescopes in the planetarium premises. Visitors can observe different planets as well as the Sun and the stars and constellations through these telescopes. This facility will combine education with hands-on experience, allowing both kids and adults to explore the wonders of the universe!
Why Panshet Was Chosen As The Astro Dome Location
When asked about why Panshet was chosen as the location for the development of this one-of-a-kind project, Hemantji Vavle highlighted how Panshet is a perfect location for their project. He stated that the dam project and reserved forests in Rajgad Taluka make light pollution minimal in Panshet.
This makes it easier to observe stars and planets through telescopes. He also went on to state that the local administration is taking efforts to designate Rajgad Taluka as India’s first Astrotourism Taluka.
Announcement Of An Upcoming Meteor Shower
Hanumantji Hede also encouraged tourists to visit the Astrotourism Center, with Tourism Coordinator Anand Gorad particularly emphasizing on the meteor shower occurring on October 21, 2025. He elaborated that a special program has been organized in collaboration with Akashdarshan Sanstha where visitors will be able to get a live view of the meteor shower through telescopes.
Summing Up
Pune in Maharashtra is a district known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples. Now, along with fostering cultural heritage, Pune will also see development in the astrotourism sector, a relatively new concept of tourism in the district. If things go as planned, Rajgad Taluka in Pune might earn the title of being India’s first ‘Astrotourism Taluka’ – a commendable feat in the astrotourism sector in Maharashtra. What are your thoughts on the same?
