Why PM Modi called this new attraction in Mysuru 'a must-visit'

PM Modi calls it a must visit (@narendramodi)

Imagine sitting inside a giant dome where the stars, planets and distant galaxies seem to unfold right above you. The night sky comes alive and takes you on a journey through the universe.

And that’s exactly what this place in Mysuru promises.Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought attention to this new attraction after inaugurating the COSMOS-Mysuru Planetarium. Sharing pictures of the facility, the PM described it as a remarkable addition to India's scientific landscape and called attention to its potential to inspire young minds.Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "Stunning COSMOS-Mysuru planetarium. It's a must visit!"More about the planetarium

Located at the foothills of Chamundi Hills, on the University of Mysore campus, COSMOS is India's first LED dome planetarium.

What makes it particularly interesting is that it is not a conventional planetarium where a projector beams images onto a curved ceiling. Instead, the dome itself is made of thousands of LED panels, creating an immersive experience that brings the universe closer to visitors.What makes COSMOS-Mysuru unique?Some of the prime attractions include:

• 15-metre tilted LED dome which used 6,150 LED panels and 4.2 crore individual LEDs
• The system offers 8K-resolution visuals
• More immersive viewing experience than conventional projector-based planetariums

Instead of watching images projected onto a screen, visitors will see the visuals displayed directly across the dome's LED surface.

The technology also allows the facility to explore new ways of presenting astronomical data, including real-time visuals from telescopes and observatories.The facility's Sky Theatre is the centrepiece.It will screen professionally produced astronomy programmes, taking audiences through subjects such as stars, planets, galaxies and the larger universe. The shows are planned in three languages: Kannada, English and Hindi.More than just a planetarium

Stunning COSMOS-Mysuru planetarium (Narendra Modi)

COSMOS stands for Cosmology Education and Research Training Center. It has been developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, in collaboration with the University of Mysore.The idea behind the project goes beyond creating a tourist attraction. It is intended to become a centre for astronomy education, research and training, particularly for students and teachers.The larger facility includes plans for exhibition halls, an astronomy museum, lecture halls, classrooms and training laboratories. Interactive science exhibits are also part of its vision.Visitors can therefore expect an experience that combines entertainment with learning. Children interested in space science can discover how astronomers study celestial objects, while students and teachers can benefit from educational programmes and training opportunities.The project also builds on the Indian Institute of Astrophysics' astronomy outreach activities in Mysuru and neighbouring areas. The institute has been working to encourage interest in astronomy and STEM subjects among school students, college students and the general public.Location of the planetariumCOSMOS-Mysuru is located on the Jayachamarajendra campus of the University of Mysore, near the foothills of Chamundi Hills in Mysuru, Karnataka.How to reach COSMOS-Mysuru Planetarium

COSMOS-Mysuru planetarium (@Narendra Modi)

By air: The nearest airport is Mysuru Airport, which has limited flight connectivity. Travellers coming from cities without convenient direct connections can fly to Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru and continue to Mysuru by road. Bengaluru airport is a longer onward journey, so factor in additional travel time.By train: Mysuru Junction is the city's main railway station and is connected to Bengaluru and several other major cities.

From the railway station, visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the University of Mysore campus.By road: Mysuru is connected to Bengaluru by road through the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway. Travellers can drive, hire a cab or take a bus from Bengaluru. Once in Mysuru, local taxis and auto-rickshaws can take visitors to the planetarium.

Best time to visit and things to know

COSMOS-Mysuru planetarium

Mysuru can be visited throughout the year, although October to February is generally a comfortable period for sightseeing.

If you are planning a family holiday, COSMOS can be included as a half-day activity alongside the city's other attractions.Since the planetarium has only just been inaugurated, visitors should check the official website for public opening dates, show schedules, ticket prices and booking arrangements before planning their visit.For families exploring Mysuru with children, astronomy enthusiasts and anyone curious about space, this new attraction offers a reason to add another day to a Mysuru itinerary.