January 9, 2018

Australia’s most digitally advanced Planetarium finds new home in Wollongong

UOW Science Space launches new technology. 

The University of Wollongong’s (UOW) Science Centre and Planetarium has been given a facelift and a new name, following a significant investment into the latest and greatest in Planetarium technology.

Science Space, the home of Australia’s most digitally advanced Planetarium, will officially launch today (Wednesday 10 January) at UOW’s Innovation Campus.

For more than 20 years the Science Centre and Planetarium has played a key role in the Illawarra region and its love and knowledge of science. To solidify its role in the rapidly changing arena of science and technology and after extensive market research, the decision was made to rebrand the Science Centre and Planetarium as Science Space.

Along with a name and identity change, Science Space has invested more than half a million dollars in Australia’s most digitally advanced Planetarium, the DIGISTAR 6. The 4k laser projection system is a first for Australia and allows the public to experience science and technology like never before, with a high resolution, bright and seamless immersive image.

The DIGISTAR 6 is now fully operational.

Science Space Director Stuart Creal said the new technology will provide a unique teaching and learning tool, with a full STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) digital library and access to content created and shared by other planetariums around the world.

“We believe this is the next chapter in the science literacy of the Illawarra region and we are beyond excited to be the home of an Australia-first attraction,” Mr Creal said.

“The new technology will also allow for large-format data visualisation research projects and will be used as a teaching tool for UOW students.”

As well as the updated Planetarium, Science Space will also be introducing a range of new science shows, a summer workshop program, birthday parties, a dedicated STEM space and professional development courses for local and interstate primary and high school teachers.
As part of the rebrand, Science Space will also be refreshing the exhibition space, overall building, digital presence and merchandise.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF WOLLONGONG’S SCIENCE SPACE

Science Space, located on the University of Wollongong’s Innovation Campus offers two levels of exhibition space, dedicated STEM experiences, observatory, membership packages and science shop. Science Space is open 9am to 4pm every day throughout the school holidays.

Science Space is founded upon the principles of education, hands-on learning and accessibility. Existing to advocate the value of science and technology and increase general science literacy, Science Space is proud to bring over 100 interactive exhibits, science shows, workshops and Australia’s most advanced Planetarium to the Illawarra region.