PLANETARIUM ŚLĄSKIE
The biggest and the oldest planetarium in Poland was founded in 1955 to
commemorate a great astronomer - Nicolaus Copernicus. It is provided with
Zeiss projection apparatus, placed under the 23 metres dome - the screen of
the artificial sky. Almost 400 spectators can watch the programme at the
same time.
The planetarium sky is an exact picture of the real firmament under which
different lectures take place. Most of them deal with geography, astronomy
but musical shows can be attended there as well.
The telescope with 30 cm objective situated in the Astronomical Observatory
enables astronomers who work in the Planetarium to follow planetoids and
comets.
On fine days, visitors can observe the Sun, and after the sunset - admire
the most interesting night objects, even with magnification of 750 times.
Time is measured by the big sun-dial which is situated in the planetarium
yard.
The meteorological and seismologic stations are on regular duty. Due to
their standard equipment it is possible to run attractive lessons for
students.
The exhibition placed in the ring surrounding the dome is worth seeing when
you visit the Planetarium. In the video room decorated with the portraits of
Polish astronomers, visitors can meet an astronomer and discuss current
astronomical events.
The astronomical contest is organized for students showing a great interest
in astronomy and physics.
A group of amateurs can take part in the meetings organized by various clubs
and also by Silesian Department of Polish Amateurs Astronomical Society.
They can use all the attractions of Planetarium, including the library with
over 10 thousand books and magazines.
