Planetarium Zeiss, Bochum

The Zeiss Planetarium in Bochum is one of Europe's most visited star theatres and ranks among the most advanced planetariums in the world, thanks to its Velvet FullDome projection system. The striking domed building on Castroper Straße first opened in 1964 as Germany's first major planetarium built after the war, and has been a listed monument since 2005. Beneath the 20-metre projection dome, around 260 visitors can take their seats – with over 2,400 events a year and more than 300,000 visitors, the venue is a cultural draw that extends well beyond the Ruhr region.

State-of-the-art projection technology beneath the dome

At the centre of the auditorium sits the Zeiss Universarium IX, one of the most advanced star projectors in the world. In operation since 2000 and upgraded with LED technology in 2018, it reproduces the night sky so faithfully that the European Space Agency (ESA) has used the planetarium as part of its astronaut training programme. The star projector is complemented by eleven Zeiss Velvet LED projectors, custom-built for Bochum and installed in 2020, which fill the entire dome with a seamless digital moving image – known as FullDome projection. Their exceptionally high contrast ratio means stars shine against a deep black background, free from any distracting ambient light. A spatial sound system featuring over 60 speakers, developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute, completes the immersive experience.

A diverse programme for all ages

The astronomy shows take audiences past stars and entire solar systems, deep into the far reaches of space. Each show explores its own theme – from expeditions through the solar system to the most exotic phenomena in the universe. Children aged four and up have their own dedicated shows, where adventurous and playful stories bring the cosmos to life. The beauty of space is particularly striking in the atmospheric music shows, which pair the starry sky with music spanning a wide range of genres – from pop and rock through to a dedicated Pink Floyd "Dark Side of the Moon" planetarium experience. The programme also includes audio drama performances, readings, live concerts, science lectures and rotating exhibitions in the circular gallery surrounding the dome. The Bochum Planetarium sees itself as a place where science, art and culture come together.

Public transportation:

The planetarium is one subway station away from Bochum main railway station. Take line 308 or 318 towards Bochum-Gerthe (Schürbankstraße or Nordbad) and get out at stop Planetarium.

By car:

The easiest way to get to the planetarium is via A40 (Ruhrschnellweg). Take exit Stadion and continue straight towards Bochum center. You will reach a roundabout after 400m. From there, simply follow the signs to the planetarium. Exit at the first turn within the roundabout into Küpperstraße. After 400m you will reach the city park, turn left into Klinikstraße and turn right into Kürfürstenstraße. There is no parking available at the planetarium, but you can park on the streets around.