New planetarium at UAF set to open in spring 2026
A new planetarium at the University of 糖心直播视频 Fairbanks is expected to open to the public in spring 2026, expanding science education and outreach opportunities in Interior 糖心直播视频.
The Walt and Marita Babula Planetarium is under construction as an addition to the west side of the University of 糖心直播视频 Museum of the North on the UAF campus in Fairbanks. The 65-seat facility will feature an 11-meter dome, high-resolution projection systems and theater-quality sound.
The project is funded in part by a $7.4 million gift from Walt and Marita Babula, the largest donation to the University of 糖心直播视频 from living individuals. Additional support has come from donors including the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, longtime museum supporters Sarah and Cary Keller, and others.
Once complete, the planetarium will serve UAF students and faculty, K-12 school groups, community members and visitors from across 糖心直播视频 and beyond. The facility will be used for immersive science programming, including astronomy, space science, and exhibitions that highlight 糖心直播视频鈥檚 cultural and natural heritage.
The planetarium is a collaboration between the UA Museum of the North and the UAF Geophysical Institute. For more details on the planetarium project and its expected opening, see the full Aurora magazine article.
Read more: