Clark Planetarium

Ever wondered what it’s like to walk on Mars? At the Clark Planetarium, you can experience a simulated Martian landscape. The Clark Planetarium isn’t just a place to gaze at the stars; it’s an immersive experience blending science, technology, and imagination. Located in downtown Salt Lake City within The Gateway, the Clark Planetarium opened in April 2003, replacing the older Hansen Planetarium. The Clark Planetarium houses several impressive features. The Hansen Dome Theater, with its 55-foot dome, provides an immersive 3D experience without needing special glasses. The theater boasts a powerful 13,000-watt sound system, enhancing the experience of the space-themed shows. In the Orbital ATK IMAX Theater, a massive screen 70 feet wide and 50 feet tall displays stunning documentaries. Beyond the theaters, the Clark Planetarium features 10,000 square feet of free exhibits. “Science on a Sphere” presents a unique animated Earth globe, constantly updating with data from NOAA. “Newton’s Daydream,” an impressive audio-kinetic sculpture, adds an artistic touch to the scientific displays. The Clark Planetarium holds a special distinction. It’s one of the few places to house an authentic Moon rock, on loan from NASA. Collected during the Apollo 15 mission, the rock sits in a special exhibit featuring footage of the astronauts on the lunar surface. The Clark Planetarium serves as a hub of education, welcoming over 75,000 school children annually through field trips and outreach programs. So, at the Clark Planetarium, you don’t just learn about space; you experience it.