Centrally located and just beside the Shukrawari Lake is the Raman Science Centre and Planetarium. It is a haven for science enthusiasts of all ages. It is a remarkable destination that adds a unique perspective to science, education and entertainment. It showcases the marvels of science through various exhibits, shows, and interactive experiences. The main attractions include 3D shows, Science on a Sphere Show, and Science Park.
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Science Park at Raman Science Centre and Planetarium
Science Park is a huge garden that surrounds the main building of the Raman Science Centre and Planetarium. It offers a myriad of playable equipment for kids. These include weight lifters, musical machines, and musical spirals. This equipment encompasses various marvels of science. Playable equipment in the park illustrate complex scientific phenomenon to children in a playful way. Not just kids even adults are amused to see some of these activities. The science park ignites curiosity in everyone. It makes people fall in love with the wonders of science.
Children are amazed to see the sight of a whole car being lifted by a single hand. Even you can lift the car yourself and experience the power of a science in action! You can see the evolution of humans and how we became who are – The Modern Man. One of the main attractions is the solar watch. It informs you about the time, date, and day of the week. It is a must watch.
Apart from the science play you have beautiful birds such as ducks and friendly cute rabbits in the park. There are numerous activities to do at the park. This can also be a sweet picnic spot for kids and elders too. The garden is nice and enjoyable for people of all ages. Fun activities like throwing balls into various equipment are especially fun for kids.
Science Gallery
As you step into the main building, you are greeted by a majestic statue of C. V. Raman. He was a Nobel laureate physicist. Many of his contributions to science are on display at the Raman Science Centre & Planetarium. The Raman Science Centre excels in science education and outreach. It has been awarded many times by different governmental and non-governmental bodies.
Main building of the science centre is a nothing short to a treasure trove of scientific wonders. It has numerous fascinating displays. Some of these include the mind-bending mirror maze, bicycle generator, and symmetry scope. There is also the raising arch, infinity well, and variable length pendulum. Other attractions are the grand shuttle, jumping disk, and Coriolis force. You can also see the transverse wave, head on a plate, and acrobatic umbrella. Additionally, there are the water vortex, mirror maze, and virtual harp. Explore the ghost wall, plasma globe, heart beat drum, and thongophone, among others. Visitors are treated with numerous exhibits that display the wonders of physics, biology, and technology. Pinball inspired game is specially fun for adults.
Inventions Gallery
One of the highlights of the Raman Science Center is the Inventions Gallery. It displays the evolution of human ingenuity. You can witness the working of early inventions such as the typewriter. You can also see the wheel. Modern marvels like the steam engine and the jet engine are also featured. Visitors may learn about the working of clocks and pendulum clocks etc.
Exhibits such as power flight, motive power, different types of engines are fun to see. Sights of the early age landline phones and dial-up internet are fascinating. Television and other communication and broadcasting devices remind us of how fast modern-day science has evolved in the recent past. I was thrilled to see the real-time working of the pressurized heavy water reactor. In short, the science center acts as a reminder of how far we’ve come and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
The wall of fame at the Raman Science Centre features various scientists across the globe. The wall of fame is a place to look for stories of inspiration. Looking at these scientists and their contribution in our modern day world is fascinating.
Science Shows
Raman Science Centre features various scientific shows at their in house theater. These include Planetarium Show, Science on a Sphere Show, 3D Science Show, Science Film Show etc.
Planetarium Show
The planetarium show, also known as Taramandal show, is a perfect place to learn about our galaxy. You can discover lots of different things about stars and planets. The planetarium show is a must for people of all ages. This show is about space and planets. Unlike anywhere else, the projection screen is mounted to the terrace. You’d see and enjoy the show looking up the whole time. This, I’d say is a mini version of the M.P. Birla Planetarium, Kolkata.
Science on a Sphere Show
The Science on a Sphere Show has a centrally located rotating sphere which acts as the main projection screen. The show talks about various planets, stars, satellites. It offers you a glimpse of the geographical and environmental aspects of various planets and stars. I’d say this is a truly unique show. You won’t be able to see it anywhere else in the world. In the Science on a Sphere Show, you can see many planets. It features real-time imagery of Earth. Additionally, there’s real-time airplane traffic on the spherical screen.
3D Science Show
The 3D show is next show on the list. It gives a detailed information about aquatic life and reveals the hidden aspects of underwater aquatic life. In short, it is not just fun to watch. It also makes you feel more curious and excited about marine and aquatic lifeforms and vegetation.
In all these shows, there is an instructor who gives you information about the imagery in all of these shows. You may even ask queries – if you have some!
Cafeteria at Raman Science Centre and Planetarium
Raman Science Centre and Planetarium is a famous destination for various school trips. It has an in house canteen. However, personally speaking I did not like the food at all. It was okay but not that great I’d say. You are allowed to carry your own food so it is a good idea to bring your own food. There are comfortable dining arrangements alongside the park.
In summary, a visit to Raman Science Centre and Planetarium is a journey of discovery, wonder and surprises. Visiting the Raman Science Centre makes you realise science contributes immensely to our daily lives. These contributions are often taken for granted. It is also a place to get inspired as you see the evolution of technology and marvels of human ingenuity. Whether you’re a curious person or a science enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I highly recommend visiting this destination.
Special Note: Mobile cameras are not permitted inside the premises.
If you still have some time left in the evening and want to explore something nearby I would highly recommend you to visit Ambazari Lake which is just 10 minutes away.
Ratings & Reviews
4.4 based on 717 reviews.
Raman Science Centre and Planetarium Contact Information
| Contact Number(s) | 0712-2735800 and 0712-2770187 |
| Address | ramanscn@gmail.com |
Raman Science Centre and Planetarium Timings
General Timings
| Day | Timing |
| Monday | 9.30 AM to 6 PM |
| Tuesday | 9.30 AM to 6 PM |
| Wednesday | 9.30 AM to 6 PM |
| Thursday | 9.30 AM to 6 PM |
| Friday | 9.30 AM to 6 PM |
| Saturday | 9.30 AM to 6 PM |
| Sunday | 9.30 AM to 6 PM |
Show Timings
| Show Name | Show Timings |
| Planetarium Show | Daily 5 Shows – 12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, 5 PM |
| 3D-Film Show | Daily 5 Shows – 12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, 5 PM |
| Science on a Sphere Show | Daily 5 Shows – 12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, 5 PM |
| Science Film Show | Only on Request of Schools/Groups of 100+ |
| Science Demonstration Lecture | Only on Request of Schools/Groups of 100+ |
| Sky Observation Programme | Tuesday and Thursday – After Sunset |
Entry Fees / Ticket Price at Raman Science Centre and Planetarium
Entry Fees / Ticket Price
| Serial Number | Facility | Fees per Person | Fees per person if it is a group of 15 or more people | Fees per student for Private Schools | Fees per student for Government School |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Science Centre & Science Park | 40 | 30 | 15 | 10 |
| 2 | Planetarium Show | 60 | 50 | 30 | 25 |
| 3 | 3D Science Show | 30 | 25 | 15 | 10 |
| 4 | Science on a Sphere Show | 30 | 25 | 15 | 10 |
| 5 | Package Ticket 1 | 110 | 90 | 55 | 40 |
| 6 | Package Ticket 2 | – | – | 65 | 50 |
Entry Fee is compulsory for everyone. However, following person have free entry:
- Children upto 5 years of age or 3 feet 4 inches
- Defense and Paramilitary forces in uniform
- Physically challenged person
- Members of the centre and ICOM only to the galleries and Science Park
Parking Fees
| Vehicle Type | Fees |
|---|---|
| 3 Wheelers & 4 Wheelers | 40 |
| Two Wheelers | 20 |
Now you can book your entry tickets online by logging in to https://rscnagpur.in/ . However, this website seems to be obsolete at the time of writing this article. Please give them a call before making any payments.
Map and Address of Raman Science Centre and Planetarium
Map
Address
Raman Science Centre & Planetarium, Opp. Gandhisagar, Subhash Rd, Empress City, Nagpur, Maharashtra 440018
Nagpur-440018 (India)
