Greenwich Planetarium: 2.5-Year Closure for Major Upgrade
The Peter Harrison Planetarium at the Royal Observatory Greenwich will undergo a significant upgrade, leading to its closure from September 8, 2025, until spring 2028. This closure is part of the larger “First Light” capital project, celebrating the observatory’s 350th anniversary. The project encompasses a wide range of improvements across the entire Royal Observatory Greenwich site. These include a new entrance pavilion, enhanced accessibility features, modernized astronomy galleries, a new “Astronomers’ Court” for interactive science exhibits, and extensive landscaping. The Great Equatorial Telescope will also receive upgrades, including new bronze stairs and a lift for improved accessibility. The planetarium’s final month features special screenings, including films on Chinese and Arabic astronomy, a relaxed viewing for sensitive audiences, and a screening of “The Wild Robot” followed by a science discussion. This extended closure joins a growing list of London attractions undergoing large-scale renovations, such as the Museum of London, the National Portrait Gallery, the Museum of Childhood, and Kew Gardens’ Palm House. While the planetarium’s closure will be for two and a half years, this is deemed a relatively short period compared to other similar projects, reflecting the scale of the improvements planned. The improvements are expected to significantly enhance the visitor experience and modernize the facilities, ensuring the Royal Observatory Greenwich remains a leading attraction for years to come. The overall aim is to create a more accessible and engaging experience for all visitors while preserving the historical significance of the site.
