Digital Planetarium in Reutlingen

Focus:	Science Communication
Type of funding:	Small funding projects
Programme:	CZS Individual funding
Funded institution:	Verein für Volksbildung Reutlingen e.V.

Since 1956, the Reutlingen Observatory and Planetarium have been inspiring people of all ages to take an interest in the natural sciences. Starting in 2027, an extensive modernization project and a larger dome will make even more educational programs possible.

Goals

The Reutlingen Association for Public Education (Verein für Volksbildung Reutlingen e.V.) operates a planetarium at the Reutlingen Observatory, located on the roof of the Ferdinand-von-Steinbeis School. The CZS is supporting the modernization and construction of a seven-meter projection dome in 2027. The observatory is the only facility in Baden-Württemberg that teaches astronomy first in the planetarium and then directly through the telescope.

The current planetarium is technically outdated and, with only 16 to 18 seats, lacks sufficient capacity for school classes and larger groups of visitors. The renovation in 2027 will result in a new planetarium with space for more than 40 people. It will feature a high-resolution digital fulldome projection system that, in addition to astronomical content, will also enable scientific visualizations, films, and interactive educational formats. The new infrastructure will significantly expand the possibilities for teaching the natural sciences and create engaging learning experiences for a variety of target groups.

The goal of the project is to inspire even more children, teenagers, and adults to take an interest in science, technology, and astronomy. In this way, the planetarium makes an important contribution to STEM education in the region.

The modernization is made possible by financial support from several sponsors.