On Wednesday 15th October, Kirkcudbright Dark Space Planetarium was excited to welcome Professor Catherine Heymans, Astronomer Royal for Scotland, to the Planetarium. Catherine learned about the history of the science centre, the visitor experience and the education programme provided in the planetarium. She also heard about the challenges facing the organisation in providing such services.
Dark Space Planetarium is a small, passionate charity based in Kirkcudbright, helping people of all ages explore space, science and the wonders of the universe. Based in the historic Johnston School building. It opened its doors in 2021. It offers hands-on exhibits, fascinating dome shows, creative science events, and education sessions linked to the school curriculum. The planetarium team supports learning, curiosity and confidence, not just in schoolchildren, but in adults, older people, and families too. As part of the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, the planetarium brings science indoors, providing an exciting place to learn and discover all year round, whatever the weather.
Catherine said she was “absolutely blown away by the interactive exhibits and the immersive planetarium experience not to mention the professionalism, passion and enthusiasm of the staff”. She commented that, “The schools program they offer is first-rate and a unique opportunity for the rural communities across Dumfries and Galloway.”
With science centres throughout the UK currently struggling to maintain their services, particularly for schools in more deprived and rural areas, the Astronomer Royal asked the Dark Space Planetarium team how they managed to afford such a comprehensive and successful programme. They explained that, although ticket sales were important, it was only possible to provide the schools programme thanks to the support of several generous funders including, recently, Drax Foundation, Edina Trust, The Holywood Trust and the Robin Rigg Community Fund. She commented that these funders are making a genuine and important impact for the many schools and community groups that the Planetarium team reach each year.
She stated that “It is centres like the Dark Space Planetarium who allow a diverse range of people to genuinely connect with the wonders of the cosmos, opening the astronomy gateway to many new careers in STEM.” She wanted to thank the funders for supporting this initiative that is enabling the Planetarium team to realise its full potential as a state-of-the-art science centre that is truly inspiring the next generation of Scottish scientists.
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