South Downs Planetarium

Services And Activities

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About Us

An imae of planets

The South Downs Planetarium is a volunteer run educational charity located in Chichester, West Sussex, (Registered Educational Charity No. 1096869). Our main goal is to provide an environment where visitors of all ages can learn about science in a very visual and exciting way.

The Planetarium project was started in 1992 by members of the South Downs Astronomical Society who wanted to establish an educational centre to promote astronomy, space and Earth sciences on the south coast of England.

We opened to the public on 30th July 2001 and are one of the largest Planetarium in the British Isles

Our primary focus is school visits and we provide a wide range of activities which supplement national curriculum work and meets the educational needs for children of all ages and abilities. When a school visit arrives at the planetarium we are able to offer them an experience of awe and wonder to learn about the night sky the planets and space exploration as they enter the planetarium dome.

The Royal Navy training in the lecture theatre
The Royal Navy training in the lecture theatre

We also provide learning experiences for other visitors and groups. This includes Astro Navigation for members of the Royal Navy and International Navies as part of their officer training.


Teacher Training

teachers training in the lecture theatre
Teacher training in the lecture theatre

We provide 'Teacher Training' courses for university students hoping to teach sciences at primary or secondary school level.


Telescope Courses

members of the public at a telescope course in the lecture theatre
Our telescope course in the lecture theatre

Several time a year we hold half day Telescope courses for visitors wanting to learn how to choose and use their new telescope.


Why not become a Volunteer?

raised hands volunteering.

Do you have a few hours to spare during the day, in the evening or at weekends on a regular basis?

Would you like to join our team of volunteers and help with our visitors from Schools or our Public Shows?

There are a number of ways to get involved.

Find out more by contacting Ann Mills


Postal Address

The South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre
Sir Patrick Moore Building
Kingsham Farm
Kingsham Road
Chichester
West Sussex

Outside Activities

Every year we hold several outside activities, providing an opportunity for members of the public to safely observe the sun using our solar telescopes or after dark observe the wonders of the night sky with our planetarium team.

a member of the public observing the sun through a specialist telescope.
Observing the Sun through a Special Solar Telescope
Observing the Night sky
Observing the Night sky

Private hire for Group Events and Parties

The Lecture Theatre
The Lecture Theatre

Find out more here


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