“Is that Saturn I see?” a child exclaimed pointing towards the telescope. Today, we’re exploring the wonders of the universe right here at the telescope “Saturn”. This isn’t just any telescope. It’s a portal connecting us to celestial bodies. The telescope “Saturn” is under the watchful eye of the Pulkovo Astronomical Observatory.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine November 4th, 1959. The Saint Petersburg Planetarium opened its doors. It became the third planetarium in the USSR. This telescope “Saturn” became a gateway to the cosmos for countless visitors.
The Saint Petersburg Planetarium, where telescope “Saturn” resides, occupies a part of a former People’s House. Before the revolution, this section housed a hall for celebrations and readings known as the “Iron Hall”. The building itself was erected between 1898 and 1900. Prince A. P. Oldenburgsky initiated it and architect G. I. Lyutsedarsky designed it. Lyutsedarsky expanded the building between 1910 and 1912. A People’s Auditorium with a stage was added. Today, this area is home to the Music Hall.
Within the planetarium are seven stationary halls. There’s the Star Hall, a small astronomical Observatory, and the Cosmic Journey hall. You can also find the Planetka hall, the Laboratory of Entertaining Experiments and the Round Hall. Do not forget the Hall of Entertaining Illusions. A mobile planetarium is also available.
The Star Hall is one of Russia’s largest. Its dome spans 25 meters in diameter and stands 15 meters high. This dome isn’t visible from outside the building. The hall’s diameter is 23.5 meters. Its height reaches 14.5 meters. The “Planetarium” apparatus is located in this hall. Lectures and scientific meetings happen regularly. Cosmounauts and scientists often attend. Video is projected onto the entire dome.
The observatory attached to the telescope “Saturn” allows observations of celestial objects through various telescopes. Regular observations of astronomical events occur. The observatory also features virtual observation sessions and preliminary discussions.
One notable exhibit is the Foucault pendulum. This vividly illustrates Earth’s rotation. The Foucault pendulum’s thread measures about 8 meters long.
“Cosmic Journey” hall engages visitors through interactive science programs. The mobile planetarium has a dome that is 6 meters in diameter. It can hold about 30 people. This mobile structure allows planetarium staff to conduct lectures on astronomy in schools.
Telescope “Saturn” and the Saint Petersburg Planetarium offer a unique window. It is a window into the vastness of space. It inspires curiosity and promotes scientific exploration. It reminds us that the universe is not distant. It surrounds us, waiting to be discovered.