The Christmas Star: Live Planetarium Presentation
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EmailStep into a world where the stars shine brighter, the mysteries grow deeper, and the spirit of Christmas comes alive in the night sky. This live, 40-min pop-up planetarium experience is perfect for families (with children age 6+) looking for a fun, yet educational outing this festive season.
The journey begins with a tour of tonight's sky, pointing out the winter constellations and the planets currently lighting up the heavens. Then you'll discover the Star of Bethlehem, the celestial marvel that heralded the birth of Christ 2,000 years ago.
Journey back in time to view the sky over ancient Bethlehem, where the nature and timing of that fabled star will be explored. To understand what it might have been, you'll dive deep into various cosmic phenomena, taking into account often overlooked information eg. the Christmas Star was not particularly bright, and it appeared twice, about a year apart.
Ever wanted to ask an astronomer a question? This is your chance. A Q&A session at the end invites you to probe deeper into the Christmas Star, or any other celestial subject on your mind. Questions are answered with memorable 360° visuals filling the dome, imparting a whole new dimension to your queries.
PLEASE NOTE :
⦿ Audiences sit on foam flooring and adults may wish to bring a cushion. All children age 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
⦿ The planetarium is dark when displaying the night sky, and the dome fan is a little loud during entry and exit.
⦿ Moving 360° imagery may cause motion sickness. Close your eyes / look away and it will pass.
⦿ Due to the size of the venue and the snug fit of the dome, it is unfortunately not possible to accommodate wheelchair users at this event.
Age restrictions: 6+
| Adult (adults and children age 12+) | £8.50 |
| Child (children age 11 and younger) | £6.50 |
| Senior Citizen | £6.90 |
| Student (please bring ID) | £6.90 |
| Concession (registered disabled, registered carers, and NHS workers) | £6.90 |
| Family group (2 adults / 2 children) | £27 |
| Family Group (1 adult / 3 children) | £26 |
What people are saying
Dec 2024
The experience was very good. It would have been nice if it was slightly longer say 60 mins. An...
Dec 2024
Went with two grandsons age 6 and 10. We all thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It was presented ...
Dec 2024
Very interesting and awe inspiring. Marco is so knowledgeable. Was slightly too complicated for 7...
Dec 2024
We were very lucky- we had extra time given to us for questions which we really enjoyed. It was a...
How to get there
Facilities
- Family friendly
- Parking
- Toilets
On the day
- Audiences sit on foam flooring and adults may wish to bring a cushion
- All children age 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult
- Please arrive at least 5min before the start of the show, to allow time for taking off shoes and a brief introduction
- Due to the size of the venue and the snug fit of the dome, it is unfortunately not possible to accommodate wheelchair users at this event.
Changes happen, don't worry
You'll be hosted by
Dome Club Planetarium
Our colourful inflatable dome, located in the beautiful 45 acre garden at Arnos Vale, is home to immersive educational events and 360° planetarium shows!
Enjoy guided tours of the night sky, journey across the Solar System, and handle a famous meteorite from outer space. Ask any astronomy question you wish and have it answered with spellbinding visuals on the dome. This summer we also turn our planetarium into an aquarium!
A great day out at Arnos Vale Victorian Garden Cemetery (BS4 3EW), where you can also enjoy self-guided walks, a coffee shop and a gift shop.
Home Education groups: please contact us to arrange bespoke sessions.
Join our mailing list ( info@domeclub.com ), or follow us on Instagram ( @domeclubplanetarium ) and Facebook ( facebook.com/DomeClubPlanetarium )
Mario Di Maggio
Mario has over two decades experience with digital domes and planetariums, both fixed and mobile. He launched and managed the UK`s first purpose-built digital planetarium (Thinktank Science Museum, Birmingham, 2005-2013); as well as the Glasgow Planetarium, then the UK`s most expensive planetarium (2001-2004). Mario has worked as a consultant for the Guinness Book of World Records Macao Planetarium (China, 2004-2008) and the Peter Harrison Planetarium (London, 2005). Additional planetarium experience includes We The Curious (Bristol, 2000) and Armagh Planetarium (Northern Ireland, 2000-2001). Before that, Mario established and managed one of South Africa's first interactive science centre networks (KwaZuzulwazi in Durban, 1992-1999), as well as a 'simulated' planetarium at the Durban Natural Science Museum (1998-1999). Currently Mario is the owner and director Dome Club Ltd, also trading as Immersive Theatres (schools outreach).
Any questions?
Ask your question directly to Dome Club Planetarium.