Reims' Planetarium is unique in the region. Open seven days a week in the grand setting of the gardens of the former Jesuit College, it puts on over 1,200 showings a year and is visited by nearly 27,000 people. It is a permanent source of astronomical information. It is also a place where you can learn how to recognise the constellations or swot up on the stars and planets in preparation for an evening with friends for example.
A planetarium is above all a place containing projection facilities that make it possible to reconstitute the canopy of heaven on a dome serving as a screen. The positions of over 5,500 stars are scrupulously respected. The planets are also shown, along with their movements as the hours, days and years go by. The phases of the moon may pass in front of you in a few minutes and the tail of a comet be shown in all its glory.
All these stars and planets are animated and mean that observers can take imaginary journeys in time; for instance, during a single showing, you can see the sky in the evening and again the next morning or even later.
You can even take a journey to the southern hemisphere to see stars that aren't visible in Europe, accompanied by a commentary to music produced by enthusiastic specialists in the matter who make it understandable for everyone.
There is also a multimedia projection of the latest images captured by the giant telescopes and virtually live images sent back by the two probes ‘Spirit' and ‘Opportunity', which are currently exploring the surface of Mars, or the ‘Cassini' probe orbiting around Saturn.
Be it a straightforward introduction to the stars or a complex description of nebulae and galaxies, Reims Planetarium offers numerous opportunities to explore the wonders of the heavens during the day, in any weather and without the need for it to be night time. All visitors receive a copy of “Gazette des Etoiles” on which the configuration of the sky during the current month is plotted. In the reception area, you can also see an amazing astronomical clock that took Jean Legros, a native of Reims, 22 years to build (free access).
It is possible to attend several showings in the same afternoon or come back several days running: there are five programmes, some of which are continuously updated in real time.
In the mornings, special showings can also be put on for groups by prior arrangement (leisure centres, youth clubs, etc (choice of programmes).
All Planetarium programmes are designed to complement each other as well as being intended for everyone. However, we suggest you read the detailed information given about each programme beforehand (duration, level, times, etc.) available free of charge from the reception desk.
The sky is your limit at the Planetarium!
Contact:
Phone: +33 (0)3.26.35.34.70.
Fax: +33 (0)3.26.35.34.92.
E-mail : planetarium@mairie-reims.fr
Opening times
Public showings: for private individuals and groups
Projections last 30 to 50 minutes. Fixed programme.
During term time: Saturday and Sunday showings at 2.45, 3.30 and 4.45pm
During school holidays: Daily at 2.45, 3.30 and 4.45pm
Private showings for groups (schoolchildren, clubs, etc.): by prior arrangement only. Programmes chosen by group leader.
During term time: Monday to Friday at 9.15am, 10.30am, 2.15pm, 3.30pm and 4.45pm, excluding Tuesday morning and Wednesday afternoon.
During school holidays: Monday to Friday at 9.30am and 10.45am excluding Tuesday.
Price:
Adults: €3 (ticket valid for 3 showings)
Children and students: free admission
School groups: free admission
Groups of more than 15 adults: €1.50/person
Address
1, place Museux, 51100 Reims
Information
Phone: +33 (0)3.26.35.34.70
Bus: Lines A, F, I & T – “Saint-Maurice” stop