The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) will officially open Mindanao's first planetarium to the general public on Monday, May 20.
“Starting May 20, 2024, the planetarium will be accepting requests for lectures and shows on a first-come, first-served basis,” said PAGASA.
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. and PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando led the unveiling of the newly constructed planetarium at the PAGASA Station in Brgy. Molugan, El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental on May 17.
Solidum said the planetarium marks a significant achievement in science education and infrastructure development in Mindanao.
“We hope that the establishment of the Mindanao Planetarium is just a kick-off of many more science-centered facilities here in Region X because we, in DOST commit to you as OneDOST4U, to provide solutions and open opportunities to the people of Misamis Oriental through Science, Technology, and Innovation,” he said.
Servando also expressed his gratitude to the local government units for their support and lauded the efforts of the DOST and PAGASA regional offices in Mindanao.
“The stars finally aligned today as we turn this much-awaited dream into a reality. Even if the project faced technical and logistical challenges specifically during the Covid-19 pandemic, you all continued to fulfill the completion of the planetarium,” Servando said.
The facility boasts cutting-edge visualization and immersive multi-media technology, allowing visitors to journey through the universe from distant galaxies to constellations of stars.
Aside from its theater-style facility and dome for astronomical shows, the planetarium houses newly acquired telescopes for stargazing.
PAGASA said the planetarium will foster curiosity and cultivate a culture of scientific inquiry through interactive exhibits and educational programs, thereby contributing to Mindanao's socioeconomic development and celebrating the region's scientific heritage.
More than just a place to marvel at the stars, it will also be a dynamic hub for research, education, and outreach, to inspire a new generation of astronomers and space science enthusiasts.