PHOENIX — As part of its transformation, the Arizona Science Center announced that the Dorrance Planetarium is being renamed to the Dorrance DOME.
The new name is meant to signal the planetarium’s move toward immersive learning and storytelling.
The dome has 360-degree visuals and sound, uses Digistar planetarium software and is powered by Cosm’s CX System LED dome.
“This name change reflect more than just a new look; it’s a reimagining of what a planetarium can be,” Jacquie Dorrance said in a press release. ” The Dorrance DOME will inspire generations to come, igniting curiosity and wonder in Arizonans through an immersive journey. It’s more than a digital dome; it’s a legacy of learning and discovery.”
Details on Dorrance DOME
The Dorrance DOME will reopen for visitors on Saturday, Oct. 18 and advance tickets are on sale now.
The 60-foot dome seats 205 guests with 200 premium seats — including 112 fixed and 88 movable chairs — and five ADA-compliant spaces.
During the pre-opening sale, Arizonans can purchase tickets for shows running through Nov. 30.
There will be seven shows throughout the day, including five unique shows and a free presentation showcasing the 8K dome’s capabilities.
The dome’s opening schedule will be:
- Astronomy Tour: Arizona, produced by Arizona Science Center – 12:30 p.m.
- Black Hole: First Picture, produced by Cosm Studios – 11:45 a.m., 2:45 p.m.
- Orbital, produced by Cosm Studios – 11 a.m., 1:15 p.m.
- Inside Pop Art, produced by Cosm Studios – 3:30 p.m.
“With the transformation of the Dorrane DOME, Arizona Science Center is setting a new standard for what a planetarium can be,” Cosm Chief Operations Officer Kirk Johnson said. “The Dorrance DOME will stand as a cultural destination that expands the reach of science, art and exploration, inspiring guests of all ages with next-generation immersive technology and storytelling.”
We want to hear from you.
Have a story idea or tip? Pass it along to the KTAR News team here.
