ABOUT US

Nicholas Copernicus wrote in his “De Revolutionibus” work – “What can be more beautiful than the sky that embraces all that is beautiful”. Those who will visit the Planetarium in Torun will certainly agree with this statement. Although people in Torun had dreamt about such an institution for 50 years, the first guests saw the performance under the dome in February 1994.

The Planetarium is located in the area of the Old Town. The building is an example of industrial architecture and originates from the second half of 19th century. It was previously used as a gas container for citizens of Torun. Actually, there were three gas containers but two of them were pulled down in 1927. The remaining one was renovated in the 80’s and since 1994 is a home for the Planetarium. The Planetarium’s dome is 15m wide.

Today, the Planetarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Torun. This success was possible, in the first place, thanks to the fulfillment of the expectations of the guests visiting Torun. When they visit the hometown of Copernicus, they look for connections with the Universe and they find them in the Planetarium. Since the Planetarium was opened, the number of visitors has been systematically growing and amounts to over 150 000 each year. In the record year of 2011, it even exceeded 205 thousands. The total number of 2.8 million visitors has so far taken their seats under the dome of the Planetarium. Other factors, such as good cooperation with the educational system (it should be added here that about 70 % of the visitors are school groups) and the high quality of the performances contribute to the success.

The Planetarium in Torun presents popular astronomical shows that embrace almost the entire scope of the astronomical knowledge. There are also two interactive exhibition the Geodium and the Orbitarium.

The Planetarium has been organized and it is still managed by the Foundation of Friends of the Planetarium and the Museum of Nicholas Copernicus.