If you've read my opinion on Madame Tussauds, you will know that I visited the Planetarium in part to avoid the long queue to get into Madame Tussauds, as the Planetarium is part of the Tussauds group, and located next door to Madame T's, with a connecting door between the two - thus once you're inside the Planetarium you bypass the queue to get into Madame T's. Nearest tube station to the Planetarium is Baker Street.
Unfortunately it is a little pricey - a single ticket to the Planetarium is Ģ6.50, and a combined ticket to both Madame T's and the Planetarium is Ģ13.95. I think the combined ticket is the best option, as it is only a couple of pounds more than the regular admission price just to Madame T's.
Personally, I found the Planetarium to be much more interesting. Even though I am not a science fan at all, I still enjoyed it, which is saying something, as normally I will avoid anything scientific like the plague! You start off by going into an exhibition which is about the planets - it is well presented, informative, and interactive. There are many fascinating facts throughout - such as the fact that on the moon everything feels six times lighter than on earth. The interactive element has computertouch screens, the occasional game, and my particular favourite, a model of a black hole which you put 1p and 2p pieces in to see how a black hole sucks in all matter. Things such as this help to break up the absorption of information and so you learn without realising it. It is also explained in a way which is accessible to all, so I would recommend it for children, from about the age of 7 upwards I would think.
The main part of the Planetarium is of course the dome, where you sit in a theatre, which has a fantastic audio-visual trip through the universe, using the walls and ceiling of the dome. This is done by Digistar II, the world's most advanced star projector. It is dark inside, and maybe small children would feel a little scared. The seats are comfortable, and it is also quite relaxing as well as being educational. The graphics and special effects of the tour are superb, you sit back and watch the universe unfolding in front of your eyes, as if you are on a space mission yourself. Whilst the seats remain static throughout, the effect is such that you really do believe that you are travelling. In fact, at times, you can feel a little dizzy! You learn about types of stars, galaxies, black holes, worm holes, the planets, the sun and much more. There is not a vast amount of detail, so it is suitable for everyone with no prior knowledge. It also works well in conjunction with the earlier exhibition.
Are there any disadvantages? Well, I personally found it a bit too crowded for my liking, even though I went out of season, which means you might not get as much time as you want with some of the interactive exhibits. It was also quite warm in there - would have liked some better air conditioning! I also wish that the main planetarium experience in the domed theatre had been longer - I was really getting into it and then it ended!
Overall though, a great trip for the whole family, educational but fun, and suitable for all but the youngest children. No previous knowledge is necessary, and as I discovered, even people who are not of a scientific bent will enjoy it. Whilst it might be a little basic for science students, everyone will appreciate the trip through space!
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I've also been in the Planetarium, and found it an extrodinary experiance! Certainly one I wouldn't mind repeating! I agree on your point of it being busy. That's the trouble with places like that though, isn't it? It's always busy!
bsky 15.03.2001 18:02
This looks like just the place to take my husband for our wedding anniversary. I think he would love it.
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Mar 15th, 2001
very helpful by (100%):
