A modern digital planetarium has opened its doors on the Shumen Plateau. The facility is located on the ground floor of the Astronomical Observatory, which is managed by the Shumen Plateau Nature Reserve and the Shumen University "Bishop Konstantin Preslavski". The new innovative center for science and education is a project of the higher education institution and is part of the efforts to promote interest in astronomy and science among the general public. "The project could not have been implemented without the cooperation of all institutions and our joint work with the Park Directorate," emphasized the head of the Center, Prof. Dragomir Marchev, in his speech. On the Day of the Awakeners, the official start was given by the rector of the Shumen University, Prof. Natalia Vitanova. The ceremony was attended by the director of the Park, Eng. Krasimir Hristov, Mayor Hristo Hristov and his team, the chairman of the Municipal Council, Asya Asparuhova, citizens, students and pupils.
The planetarium is the only one in Bulgaria owned by a university. It uses 3D4K technology, with images projected onto a spherical surface by combining four projectors. Five educational films are currently being prepared, which will be screened in the hall, with a new screening every week. The hall has 12 seats.
The planetarium will be open from Wednesday to Sunday, with Monday and Tuesday being the days off. Entrance fees will be 15 leva for adults and 10 leva for teenagers, with visits for children under 8 years of age not recommended due to possible risk to eyesight.
The astronomical observatory has two of the best telescopes in Bulgaria, which are used daily for scientific work. The current object of study is the movement of various asteroids.