The University of Southampton

Journey through the cosmos in a mobile planetarium

Stimulate your students’ curiosity with the breathtaking world of astronomy. They’ll learn about the physical nature of celestial objects, space and the universe in an immersive digital theatre at your school or college. 

The University of Southampton’s Physics and Astronomy team use a travelling ‘astrodome’, a specially designed freestanding planetarium, to guide you through a fascinating tour of the night sky.

Learn more about the astrdome below and if you'd like to make an initial enquiry, please complete and submit our enquiry form.

See the astrodome in action

Dr Sadie Jones explains how it works and why it's an important education tool.

Make an enquiry

What is the ‘astrodome’?

The astrodome is a type of planetarium, a hemispherical domed environment in which astronomical observations can be taught.

Constellation maps can be projected onto the ceiling of the dome using a special spherical mirror. Visitors can either sit on chairs or cushions, or lie on mats on the floor to watch the show.

 The University has two astrodomes:

  • the small astrodome has a 5 metre radius and seats up to 27 people. It needs at least 6x6 metres of floor space and 3.2 metres in height
  • the large astrodome has a 6 metre radius and seats up to 35 people. It needs at least 7x7 metres of floor space and 3.3 metres in height

What can students learn about?

Shows usually include a guided tour of the night sky, an introduction to the astrophysics of the stars and planets, how to navigate using the constellations and a short film. Shows can be tailored to suit your syllabus.  

Who can book a show?

You can book a show if you’re a primary school (aged 8+), secondary school or A-level college local to the University of Southampton. We will also consider other organisations interested in understanding more about our work.

How much does it cost?

Bookings are free so there are no fees to pay.

How long does each show take?

A show usually lasts around 50 minutes. The equipment takes half an hour to set up before the first demonstration.

Who carries out the shows?

Astronomer Dr Sadie Jones and a team of students from the University’s School of Physics and Astronomy carry out the shows. Some of our team have DBS/CRB checks, but not all. The team are all fully trained in working in schools. A teacher at the school must be present at all times during the demonstrations who will be responsible for managing students.

What we need to carry out the show

On the day of the show we’ll need:

  • school hall or sports hall with a minimum of 6x6 metres of floor space and 3.2 metres in height free from ceiling lights or projector set-ups that may damage the dome once inflated
  • at least 30 minutes to set up before the first show and 20 minutes for take down after the last show
  • a space free from chairs on arrival
  • access to a power supply

How to book a show

We are now accepting bookings from September 2020 onwards. We can only visit schools that book a minimum of three shows on the same day. We can carry out a maximum of six demonstrations in a day. To make a booking use the 'Make an enquiry' button.

You can find and book other mobile planetariums through the British Association of Planetaria.

To make an initial enquiry, please complete and submit our enquiry form.