Plzeň observatory and planetarium

Plzeň observatory and planetarium sits in West Bohemia's largest city, pairing a 3D fulldome planetarium with public telescope viewing at an elevation of 325 metres.

About Plzeň observatory and planetarium

The facility houses the only 3D planetarium in the Czech Republic to use spherical surface projections, showing programmes that range from simulated trips to the Moon to explorations of Earth's origins and animated films for younger audiences.

Telescopes & observing

Alongside its planetarium shows, the site offers traditional telescope observations for visitors, and sits close to the Techmania Science Center, a hands-on science museum with interactive exhibitions that many visitors combine into a single trip.

Location & getting there

The observatory is in Plzeň (Pilsen), the largest city in West Bohemia, Czech Republic, at an elevation of about 325 metres. Plzeň is well connected by rail to Prague, roughly an hour away, making it a manageable day trip.

Visiting Plzeň observatory and planetarium

Both planetarium shows and telescope sessions are open to the public, though programmes and timings vary by season. Check the official website for the current schedule before you go, and consider pairing your visit with the nearby Techmania Science Center.

See your named star from here

With both a 3D planetarium and real telescopes on site, Plzeň observatory and planetarium is a good place to connect a star's story with the real night sky. If you've named a star through Star Register, bring its coordinates along, or explore the full star catalogue beforehand.