India
Mysuru’s New LED Dome Planetarium Opens, Promises Immersive Space Shows
Mysuru now hosts India’s first LED dome planetarium, COSMOS‑Mysuru, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 November 2026 at the University of Mysore campus. The planetarium sits at the foothills of Chamundi Hills and was developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in partnership with the university. It aims to make astronomy accessible through immersive shows, science exhibitions and educational activities.
The main feature is a 15‑metre dome covered with 6,150 LED panels that together contain about 42 million LEDs. The dome is tilted 15 degrees, allowing visitors to view high‑resolution 8K Ultra‑HD images of stars, planets and galaxies. Unlike traditional planetariums that use projectors, COSMOS displays visuals directly on the LED panels, creating a more immersive experience.
The Sky Theatre hosts professionally produced astronomy programmes in Kannada, English and Hindi. In addition to shows, the facility includes indoor and outdoor science exhibitions, an astronomy museum, telescopes for viewing the Sun and stars, and other learning spaces. Classrooms, laboratories and lecture halls support educational activities, workshops and training programmes, linking visitors and students with data from IIA observatories.
COSMOS‑Mysuru is located on the Jayachamarajendra campus of the University of Mysore. Visitors can reach the planetarium by: - Air: Mysuru Airport (limited flights) or Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport followed by road travel. - Train: Mysuru Junction, then a taxi or auto‑rickshaw to the campus. - Road: The Bengaluru‑Mysuru Expressway connects the city; local taxis and auto‑rickshaws are available for the final leg.
Although the planetarium was inaugurated on 13 November, regular public screenings and ticket bookings will begin after final calibration and testing. Once fully operational, COSMOS is expected to host two to three public shows daily, with morning slots for school and college groups. Ticket prices, confirmed show timings and online booking details are not yet announced. Visitors are advised to check the IIA’s official COSMOS website before travelling to avoid disappointment.