The first planetarium in Thane district has been set up in Shahapur. It will be inaugurated on April 5 at 5 pm by astronomer Dr. K. Soman and MLA Daulat Daroda.
Named ‘Space Astrotainment and Planetarium Observatory (SAPO)’ will be a privately-run planetarium.
Nilesh Thakur and his brother Girish Thakur have set up this ambitious project with the aim of cultivating the interest of astronomy and creating interest in astronomy among the people.
Spread over 3.5 acres at a high-altitude site in Sakadbhav, the facility aims to foster interest in astronomy among students and the general public.
An observatory with four large telescopes has been set up in this project along with a state-of-the-art planetarium.
The planetarium has 56 seats and facilities have been provided for showing half to one hour astronomical shows in Marathi, Hindi and English.
The facility is expected to provide one of the premier stargazing experiences in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Visitors can clearly view Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s belts and moons, and the Milky Way.
Apart from this, there is also an exhibition hall, ‘self points’, volunteers for guidance and a canteen for food.
This project will be a big attraction for astronomy enthusiasts. Those interested are urged to visit only after prior registration.
This planetarium will be a significant addition to the educational and scientific fields of Thane district.
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