Summary
Location
- Near Miramar Circle, Marine Highway, Miramar, Panaji, Goa – 403001
⬇️Tap on “View larger map” to get Direction
Full Story
The Goa Science Centre & Planetarium is a premier science education hub in Miramar, Panaji, established to promote scientific awareness among students and the general public. Below is its detailed historical background, development, and significance.
1. Establishment & Inception
- Conceptualized by the Government of India under the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture.
- Approval & Funding: The project was approved in the early 2000s as part of India’s push to enhance science education in smaller states.
- Inauguration: Officially inaugurated on December 19, 2001, by then-Chief Minister of Goa, Manohar Parrikar, along with scientists and educationists.
2. Location & Significance
- Situated in Miramar, Panaji, near the scenic Mandovi River, making it accessible to schools and tourists.
- First of its kind in Goa, aimed at making science interactive and engaging for students.
- Developed as a satellite center under the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), similar to other major science centers in India.
3. Evolution & Expansion
Phase 1 (2001–2010): Initial Setup
- Started with a Planetarium (20-meter dome) and a small science exhibition gallery.
- Focused on basic astronomy shows, physics, and natural science exhibits.
Phase 2 (2011–Present): Modernization
- New Galleries Added:
- Fun Science Gallery (Interactive experiments)
- Motion & Mechanics Gallery
- Bio-Diversity & Goa’s Ecology Section
- 3D Science Films & Digital Planetarium Upgrades
- Renovation (2018–2019):
- Upgraded projection systems in the planetarium.
- Added virtual reality (VR) experiences and augmented reality (AR) exhibits.
4. Key Attractions & Features
A. The Planetarium
- Capacity: 160 seats
- Shows: Daily screenings on astronomy, space missions, and cosmic phenomena.
- Languages: English, Hindi, and Konkani shows available.
B. Science Galleries
- Fun Science Gallery – Hands-on experiments (gravity, optics, sound).
- Motion & Mechanics – Displays laws of physics in an interactive way.
- Biodiversity of Goa – Exhibits on local flora, fauna, and ecosystems.
- Children’s Discovery Zone – For young learners (ages 5–12).
C. Outdoor Science Park
- Features large-scale exhibits like a pendulum wave, solar system model, and energy conservation displays.
5. Role in Science Education
- School Programs: Regular visits from schools across Goa.
- Workshops & Competitions: Hosts science fairs, robotics workshops, and astronomy clubs.
- Public Awareness: Organizes National Science Day (Feb 28) and World Space Week (Oct 4-10) events.
6. Future Developments
- Plans to introduce AI-based interactive exhibits.
- Expansion of space science exhibits, including ISRO mission models.
- Mobile Science Exhibition for rural Goa.
7. Visitor Information
- Location: Near Miramar Circle, Panaji, Goa.
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays & Govt. Holidays).
- Entry Fee:
- Planetarium: ₹30 (Adults), ₹20 (Children).
- Science Gallery: ₹20 (Adults), ₹10 (Children).
Conclusion
The Goa Science Centre & Planetarium is a vital institution for science education and tourism in Goa. From its modest beginnings in 2001, it has grown into a modern interactive hub, inspiring young minds and fostering scientific curiosity.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.