Planetarium
The planetarium at Shimane Nature Museum of Mt. Sanbe is an immersive learning facility that introduces visitors to astronomy and the night sky. Its ceiling is a domed screen 20 meters across that can simulate a view of the sky from horizon to horizon. Shows at the planetarium range in length from 15 to 45 minutes and include both recorded programs and live presentations by museum staff.
Many of the programs are nature-themed and explore the ecology and landscapes of Mt. Sanbe and Shimane Prefecture. Astronomical programs focus on topics such as the moon, seasonal constellations, and the night sky over Mt. Sanbe. Many of the programs can only be seen at the Shimane Nature Museum.
The planetarium’s projection system is capable of displaying 365,000 individual stars, and it can replicate the night sky from any viewpoint, in any season, unobstructed by light pollution or clouds. It can also show normally inaccessible perspectives, such as a view of the sky from the South Pole. For programs that depict travel through space, the domed screen creates a vivid, immersive sense of movement.
The planetarium seats 203 people, with additional space for wheelchairs. Doors open five minutes prior to the start of each show.