When you look at this extraordinary structure in Garching near Munich, you’ll discover an architectural representation of a close binary star system at the decisive moment when one star transfers mass until it finally explodes as a gigantic supernova. It is precisely this spectacular design that awaits you just outside the city gates. In 2018, the ESO Supernova Planetarium & Visitor Center opened here, right next to the headquarters of the European Southern Observatory (ESO). Standing over 17 meters tall and covering an area of nearly 5,000 m², this nonprofit educational institution brings you closer to the magic of the cosmos.
Digital Planetarium and the Magical World of Astronomy
The absolute centerpiece of the facility is the state-of-the-art digital planetarium. Under a 14-meter-wide planetarium dome with a 25-degree dome inclination, there is room for up to 109 visitors. Equipped with 5 Velvet projectors with a resolution equivalent to 20 megapixels, you’ll be catapulted right into space. The shows are presented in German and English and always include a live element.
ESO Supernova is the first open-source planetarium in the world to make its productions available to other institutions. In addition to the shows, you can relax in the “World Room,” where the lights on the ceiling depict the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere. You can also take a break in the picnic area during your visit.
The interactive exhibition: The Living Universe
Discover the 2,192 m² exhibition space at ESO Supernova! Along a 255-meter-long path, you’ll explore 13 different themed areas ranging from Earth to exoplanets to galaxies and cosmology. In the interactive exhibition “The Living Universe,” you’ll become researchers yourselves as you examine astronomical exhibits . Through your own experiments , you can also discover how science unravels the mysteries of the universe. The interactive exhibition connects complex astrophysical topics directly to our daily lives, making the fascination of the cosmos understandable and tangible. Just like the shows in the planetarium, all information in the exhibition is available in German and English.
The best part? While tickets have been sold for planetarium shows and guided tours since 2019, admission to the interactive exhibition remains completely free for you! Of course, you can explore the exhibition on your own. In addition, guided tours are offered , and there are special workshops for school groups. Whether you’re looking for a quick tour or an extended space adventure: With an expected 50,000 to 100,000 visitors per year, ESO Supernova is an absolute highlight for your next discovery tour or a special family day out!
All the important information for your visit
📍Address: Karl-Schwarzschild-Straße 2, 85748 Garching near Munich | The ESO Supernova is located at the European Southern Observatory
🎟️ Admission: Planetarium shows cost €6.50 per person (please purchase tickets online ) | Visiting the exhibition on your own is free
🌟 Program: Here you’ll find more information about ESO Supernova’s activities and events
