New Astronomy And Space Science Gallery Opens At Gujarat Science City In Ahmedabad 

Ahmedabad: A new “Astronomy and Space Science Gallery” has opened to the public at Gujarat Science City today, offering visitors an extensive display focused on space exploration, astronomy, and India’s contributions to the field. The gallery, which was inaugurated on May 14, is now accessible to visitors.

The three-storey facility covers an area of approximately 12,900 square meters and features over 100 exhibits spread across six sections. These include displays on the fundamentals and history of astronomy, current space missions, star formation, and projections of future developments in space science. A large globe representing the Sun, surrounded by the planets, occupies the central atrium of the gallery.

The gallery also includes a 172-seat hybrid dome planetarium, a 24-inch telescope within an observatory dome, and a 6.5-meter mechanical orrery – a device that illustrates planetary movements. Additional installations include virtual reality setups simulating space travel and several indoor and outdoor exhibits illustrating basic astronomical phenomena.

According to state officials, the new gallery was launched during the school holiday season to increase accessibility for students and families. Mona Khandhar, Principal Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, said the gallery includes sections that highlight India’s role in space science, as well as interactive elements such as a feature where visitors can design a hypothetical planet.

The facility joins Science City’s existing attractions, such as its Aquarium and Robotic Gallery. The addition reflects ongoing efforts by the state government to expand public science education infrastructure.