Planetario Galileo Galilei

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Planetario Galileo Galilei, located in the heart of Buenos Aires within the green expanse of Parque Tres de Febrero in the Palermo district, is a stunning and inspiring destination for visitors of all ages. This architectural gem — often likened to a landing UFO — invites stargazers, families, students and curious souls to journey through the wonders of the cosmos, right in the heart of the city.

About the Museum

Since its original inauguration in December 1966 and its first astronomical presentation in June 1967, the Planetario Galileo Galilei has stood as a beacon for science outreach and cultural exploration in Buenos Aires. Its futuristic building, designed by the architect Enrique Jan, features five floors, six staircases including a spiral, and a main projection hall capped by a 20‑metre dome suited for immersive astronomy shows.

Inside the dome, an advanced projection system transports audiences through breathtaking cosmic displays. Originally outfitted with a Zeiss Mark V projector weighing approximately 2.5 tonnes, the system delivered detailed renderings of the sun, moon, visible planets, constellations and nearly 8,900 stars.

Major renovations in 2011 elevated the visitor experience dramatically: installation of a MEGASTAR II A projector, capable of displaying a million more stars, full‑dome high‑resolution video via the DigitalSky II system, ecological outer dome lighting, and the replacement of standard seats with interactive 4D chairs alongside a modern digital 5.1 sound system.

Further updates in 2017 included exterior restorations, electrical upgrades, 8K‑ready projection seating, a robot guide named Galibot, multi‑person simulators tracing the evolution of the universe, an enhanced interactive museum, and both dome and lighting improvements.

Within its museum, visitors can explore an extraordinary collection including a genuine lunar rock delivered by the Apollo 11 mission—gifted by US President Richard Nixon—a collection of ancient ammonite fossils more than 100 million years old from Neuquén Province, and a metallic meteorite displayed on the entrance terrace.

Accessibility and inclusion are also central to its mission. Since 2001, the Planetarium has offered special sensory‑enhanced presentations for people who are blind or deaf, featuring tactile star charts, relief graphics, narrated recordings and sign‑language adaptations, all free of charge.

Finally, in the outdoor Plaza Astronómica and gardens, visitors can enjoy interactive displays such as real meteorites, a sundial, and a robot guide that enriches the educational experience.

Interesting Facts

Historic inaugural site: The site hosted Argentina’s first recorded football match in June 1867 between Buenos Aires Cricket Club and the crew of the British warship Bombay.
Lunar treasure: It displays a piece of lunar rock from Apollo 11, presented as a gift by President Richard Nixon.
Ancient fossils: The museum houses ammonite fossils dating back over 100 million years, sourced from Neuquén Province.
Meteorite exhibit: A metallic meteorite from Chaco Province is showcased on the entrance terrace.
Cutting‑edge projection: The MEGASTAR II A projector uses LED technology and can display more than a million stars, alongside over 140 clusters and nebulae with unprecedented realism.
Interactive technology: Facilities include a robot guide, simulators that journey from the Big Bang to today, interactive museum spaces and 4D chairs.
Inclusion for all: Tactile and sign‑language‑adapted shows pioneered accessibility in Latin America.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +54 11 4771 6629

Website: planetario.buenosaires.gob.ar/

Facebook: facebook.com/planetarioBA/

Conclusion

The Planetario Galileo Galilei in Buenos Aires stands as a shining testament to the union of science, architecture and inclusivity. Whether one is gazing at the luminous dome projections, wandering through an interactive museum, marveling at meteorites and fossils, or participating in specially designed sensory shows, the experience is both educational and profoundly moving.

From its historical roots to its modern technological achievements, the planetarium offers an unforgettable journey through space and time. It is a must‑visit for families, students, tourists, and anyone with a spark of curiosity about the universe. A visit promises not only wonder and learning, but also a deepened appreciation for our place within the vast cosmos—right in the midst of one of the most beautiful parks in Buenos Aires.