MANILA, Philippines – After four months of renovations, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Planetarium in Quezon City has reopened its doors to the public.
First opened in 1977, the planetarium is a renowned hub for educational tours for elementary and high school students.
The 90-seater planetarium offers an immersive experience with the universe through educational shows and lectures about basic astronomy, the universe’s origin, history, potential future, and the evolution of the solar system.
They also host major events such as National Astronomy Week and 100 Hours of Astronomy. Outside the chamber, visitors can see arrays of posters and photos depicting astronomical subjects, like the sun’s life cycle, supernovas, and astronomical seasons, among others.
Groups interested in visiting the planetarium should schedule a visit by sending a letter to PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando. Visitors can also register through this link. They charge P25 per head for the entrance fee.
While walk-ins are allowed, lectures are only available for group tours.
For walk-in visitors who wish to participate in the lectures, PAGASA astronomical publication and planetarium chief Mario Raymundo said they can tag along with other groups who have not reached the planetarium’s maximum capacity.
The planetarium is located at the PAGASA Science Garden Complex along BIR Road in Quezon City and is open from Mondays to Fridays, from 8 am to 4 pm.
Renovation of the planetarium included leak-proofing the ceilings, repainting, and replacing the lights inside the planetarium chamber. The management prioritized repairing the rain-damaged walls and ceiling. – Katherine Chan/Rappler.com
Katherine Chan is a Rappler intern studying AB Journalism at the University of Santo Tomas.