Fusion of science and art at the National Planetarium

Beyond its main exhibits, the National Planetarium in Kuala Lumpur offers themed spaces like Cosmic Carousel, NASA’s Eyes on the Solar System, and Aspects of the Sky, blending education with entertainment. Photo: Bernama

The National Planetarium in Kuala Lumpur aims to weave science and art into its exhibitions, creating immersive experiences that ignite public curiosity - especially among the younger generation - about the wonders of astronomy.

National Planetarium director Mohd Zamri Shah Mastor announced that a range of engaging activities will be introduced, including astronaut suit design and space-themed music competitions.

"For example, in the astronaut suit design competition ... designing the outfit is an art, but its functionality is science, so art and science are combined. Another example is a competition to create a planet or star based on a new exhibit developed at the National Planetarium, where the shape of the planet or star represents art, while the scientific properties of the newly formed celestial body represent science," said Mohd Zamri at the recent Planetarium Talk Programme in conjunction with the National Planetarium's 31st anniversary celebration.

The school holidays have led to an increase in visitor numbers at the National Planetarium. Photo: Bernama

"We also have the Cosmic Music programme, where frequencies from the universe are converted into sounds. So, we have sounds from space... then these sounds are turned into songs or music. The frequencies are the scientific aspect, while the songs or music performed represent the artistic side," he added.

The programme on Feb 7 included a talk by former Director-General of the National Space Agency and Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), Prof Emerita Tan Sri Dr Mazlan Othman, titled "Integrating Art and Science Through Storytelling and the Arts."

Beyond the main galleries, Planet Kidz provides educational activities in the planetarium's new activity room for children aged six to 12. Photo: Bernama

In conjunction with the open day, the National Planetarium, a science centre dedicated to space knowledge and exploration, offered free entry, allowing visitors to experience space exploration through planetarium film screenings and the Space Pod simulation journey.

Additionally, the public had the opportunity to explore various themed exhibition spaces that highlight edutainment-based learning concepts, such as Cosmic Carousel, NASA’s Eyes on the Solar System, and Aspects of the Sky.

A variety of educational activities under Planet Kidz were also available in the National Planetarium's newly opened activity room, designed specifically for children aged six to 12. - Bernama