Do you think you need to venture far into space to uncover the secrets of the universe? Think again! In the heart of Prague, nestled in the beautiful Stromovka park, lies the Prague Planetarium, where you can explore the vast reaches of space without leaving the city limits. Whether you are an avid astronomer, an amateur enthusiast, or a family with children, this venue offers fascinating experiences and opportunities to discover celestial bodies, planets, and galaxies.

Currently, the Štefánik Observatory and the Ďáblice Observatory operate under the Prague Observatory and Planetarium organization.

Štefánik Observatory on Petřín Hill

The Štefánik Observatory, located on Petřín Hill, is a unique place where you can experience the magic of astronomy right in the center of Prague. Established in 1928, it is named after Milan Rastislav Štefánik—a prominent astronomer, meteorologist, traveler, and politician who significantly contributed to Czechoslovak astronomy. Since its inception, the observatory has been dedicated to popularizing science, bringing astronomy closer to the public, and supporting education in the field.

Meteorite Museum: Pieces of Space at Your Fingertips

One of the main attractions of the Štefánik Observatory is the Meteorite Museum, where you can marvel at a unique collection of rare celestial objects. The exhibition features meteorites that have landed on Earth, originating from the Moon, Mars, or the asteroid Vesta. Some of these meteorites can even be held, allowing you to literally feel a piece of space.

Telescopes and Stargazing: A View of the Night Sky

The Štefánik Observatory is equipped with modern telescopes that provide detailed observations of the night sky. Its centerpiece is a historic telescope with three refractors housed under the observatory’s main dome. This instrument offers a unique view of stellar objects and is ideal for observing the Sun’s surface, prominences, and eruptions. Other telescopes enable viewers to explore the details of various celestial bodies during both day and night.

Zeiss Astrograph: A Rare Telescope Revealing the Secrets of Space

At the heart of the Štefánik Observatory lies a true gem of astronomy—the double Zeiss Astrograph, a historic instrument with a history spanning more than 100 years. In use since 1930, the telescope recently underwent a complete renovation to once again reveal the mysteries of space. Starting in May 2024, visitors can enjoy mesmerizing views of planets and the Moon, for which this telescope was originally designed.

Ďáblice Observatory: A Quiet Space for Stargazing

For those seeking a quieter location to observe the skies, the Ďáblice Observatory is highly recommended. Located on the outskirts of Prague, where light pollution is minimal, it offers superior conditions for sky observation. Opened in 1956, it has since become an ideal spot for observing the night sky. Its location makes it one of the best places for viewing stars, planets, and other celestial objects.

Technological Capabilities: Historical and Modern Telescopes

The Ďáblice Observatory combines historical instruments with modern technology. It houses a refractor with a 190 mm lens, originally from the private observatory of František Fischer. This telescope is likely the oldest functioning instrument in the Czech Republic. Additionally, the observatory features a modern 300 mm reflector telescope connected to a computer and camera, enabling high-quality digital recordings and analysis of observed objects.

Educational Programs and Public Events at the Ďáblice Observatory

The Ďáblice Observatory is not only a place for stargazing but also for education. It organizes various lectures, educational programs, and themed evenings focusing on current celestial events. Visitors can also explore exhibitions on cosmic discoveries, historical instruments, and scientific projects. The observatory is accessible to the general public, with barrier-free access making it available to visitors with limited mobility.

Prague Planetarium: A Gateway to the Universe

The Prague Planetarium is one of the largest and most technologically advanced facilities of its kind in the world. The Cosmorama hall, with a seating capacity of 210 and a projection dome 23.5 meters in diameter, is among the largest in Europe. Thanks to a state-of-the-art 8K projection system, visitors can enjoy an incredibly realistic digital sky under any conditions. High-resolution projections allow for detailed exploration of the universe, including stars, planets, and distant galaxies.

Interactive Experiences and Virtual Reality: Step Into Space

The planetarium focuses on interactive experiences, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the world of astronomy. Features like a model of the Apollo 11 lunar module, the Atlantis space shuttle, and the Simulatorium—a virtual reality space experience simulator—showcase how modern technology can bring people closer to space like never before.

Present and Future: Cutting-Edge Technology for All

The planetarium’s program is rich and includes not only fascinating space projections but also themed shows covering astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biology. Educational programs and lectures cater to all age groups, fostering interest in science and technology. Visitors can conclude their visit at the Cosmocafé, which offers refreshments in a pleasant cosmic-themed setting.

Currently, the planetarium is undergoing extensive renovations, set to be completed in 2025. After the upgrade, Prague Planetarium will become the most modern facility of its kind in the world, equipped with revolutionary LED Dome technology, offering a completely new quality of projections.

The Prague Planetarium will remain a significant destination for exploring the universe and inspiring visitors of all generations.