The Lockhart Planetarium, in room 394 of the University College Building, seats 45 people inside its eight meter dome. The planetarium projector system, pictured below, was modernized in 2020 to a Spitz SciDome 2400 projector system. The previous opto-mechanical projector was a Spitz A3P star projector and is currently displayed in the tunnels between the Machray Hall and Duff Roblin Buildings.
The modest size of the planetarium makes it an excellent teaching facility. It is ideally suited in preparing students for observing the night sky, whether they be first year astronomy students or people that are curious about the sky above! The Lockhart planetarium is used in teaching Astro 1810, Astro 2070, and Astro 3070 students. Other presentations in the planetarium provide enrichment material not only for these students but also for students of other disciplines.
The planetarium also hosts monthly Astronomy Open Houses, which are open to anyone in the university community and to the public. Open Houses take place on the last Wednesday of the month during the academic school year (September -May, excluding December). Presentations are live and interactive, with the topic changing every month. Admission is free but seats are limited. Registration of tickets on Eventbrite is encouraged
During the year, however, it is not unusual to find groups from outside the university community visiting the planetarium. Some of these groups include student groups on campus, the Inspire Program at CanU Canada, Cubs and Scouts, the Mini-U program, and even community groups from Winnipeg. The Planetarium also welcomes classes from public schools. The shows, tailored to the individual group, are interactive and presented live by planetarium personnel.
Beginning October 21st, 2023, the Centennial of the Planetarium begins their celebration of the over 4000 planetaria world-wide. Join us in celebrating the incredible space we have here on campus.
It is possible to book the planetarium for private events, subject to availability.
For further information contact:
Dr. Danielle Pahud
474-6202
Danielle.Pahud@umanitoba.ca
Lockhart Planetarium is on Instagram
Notice:
Open Houses have resumed as of January 2023.
