Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium facilities
People of all ages can enjoy the astronomy programs and displays at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium.
In March 2013, a major refurbishment allowed for the installation of a new optical star projector, replacing the Zeiss Projector installed in 1978. It recreates a stunning realistic night sky on a new, improved 12.5m diameter projection dome.
The new display area takes you on an astronomical journey, capturing old favourites like the life-size replica of Neil Armstrong’s lunar spacesuit as well as new items and digital displays.
Cosmic Skydome
The universe is recreated in the Planetarium’s Cosmic Skydome where audiences are immersed in educational and entertaining experiences. Both public and special school shows are offered using Australia’s first high-resolution, digital full-dome planetarium system installed early in 2010.
Display Zone
The Display Zone features interesting artefacts and displays, including fragments of asteroids and spacecraft models. You will also see images from the Hubble Space Telescope.
Mini Theatre
Short feature shows on various astronomical topics and space missions are continuously screened in the Mini Theatre.
Observatory
The Observatory telescopes are used by Planetarium astronomers for demonstrations on various Saturday evenings subject to suitable sky conditions. You can contact the Planetarium to make a booking for the Observatory.
The Observatory is not wheelchair accessible and a minimum patron height of 150cm is applied owing to the height of telescope eyepieces.
Galaxy Gift Shop
The Planetarium shop sells a wide range of astronomy and general science merchandise including star charts, project kits, globes, books, spacecraft models, souvenirs and novelty items.
Venue hire
The Planetarium offers excellent facilities for seminars, presentations or events, with:
- new state-of-the-art multimedia systems
- stunning Cosmic Skydome theatre shows - seating for up to 125
- mini theatre - seating for up to 40
- foyer - suitable for cocktails for 60-80 guests
For bookings, phone the Planetarium on 07 3403 2578.
Brief history
In 1978, Brisbane City Council opened Queensland’s first planetarium. The Planetarium is named after Sir Thomas Brisbane, a Governor of New South Wales in the 1820s.
Sir Thomas Brisbane established Australia’s first significant observatory and was responsible for the first extensive mapping of the southern sky. His observations led to a list of 7,385 stars. You can view an original copy of the ‘Brisbane Catalogue of Stars’ and one of his telescopes at the Planetarium.
