Olsztyn’s planetarium is preparing for a groundbreaking upgrade. The highlight? A lunar rover simulator, designed to immerse visitors in the Moon’s unique environment. This innovative feature will let up to eight participants at a time virtually explore the Moon’s surface, including Apollo 11’s landing site. The simulator, costing nearly 2 million PLN, is funded by the Polish Deal program and is expected to be operational by late 2025.
The simulator is just part of a larger plan. By 2027, Olsztyn will unveil a detailed lunar habitat exhibit, complete with airlock entrances and displays on Moon conditions like solar radiation and the lack of atmosphere. During ongoing renovations, the rover will be temporarily housed in the Aquasfera swimming facility.
The planetarium’s modernization will cost 72 million PLN, with the revamped facility accommodating up to 70 visitors at once. These changes promise a stellar leap forward in space education and exploration.