Photos courtesy of Definiti Theaters by Sky-Skan

About the Renovation

The Museum of Science is undertaking a comprehensive physical and technological renovation of the Planetarium to make it the most technically advanced digital theater in New England, employing the latest in high definition, immersive video and digital acoustic technology, while offering shows of unparalleled realism and excitement.

Our renovations include:

  • A Zeiss Starmaster with 650mm lifting device
  • A Sky-Skan Digitalsky System
  • A 16 channel configuration SXRD Projector Technology
  • A digital surround-sound system
  • A 60-foot dome
  • Precision LED lighting system
  • Upgrades to electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
  • Lobby refurbishments
  • Fire protection
  • Renewed interior finishes
  • New seats and visitor amenities
  • A test dome
  • Rendering equipment
  • The use of recycled and environmentally sensitive building materials

The planned renovations will enable the Museum to offer a significantly broader range of programming. New projection and digital animation technology will allow the Planetarium staff to develop original content, not only on astronomy and space exploration, but also on other areas of current science and technology, such as global climate change, nanotechnology, genetics, and bioengineering.

The Planetarium's initial benefactor, the Charles Hayden Foundation, has pledged a new cornerstone gift of $2 million for the purchase of the technological centerpiece of the renovated Planetarium, the Zeiss Starmaster projector. A group of individual and foundation donors have committed additional funds, bringing us closer and closer to our goal of $9 million. Yet, we still need your help to complete the job! Please join in supporting the transformation of the Charles Hayden Planetarium by making a donation today.

Donate Now

For more information: Jim Kraus, executive director of development, jkraus@mos.org, 617-589-0181.