Planetarium to reach 10,000 institutions across Karnataka: Nirmala Sitharaman

Mysuru: Describing the COSMOS Planetarium as a milestone for Mysuru, a city known for its heritage, knowledge and culture, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar (DKS) said, the facility would emerge as a major scientific landmark.

Speaking at the inauguration of the planetarium at the foot of Chamundi Hill in the presence of PM Narendra Modi yesterday, DKS highlighted Karnataka’s contribution to India’s space programme, from the country’s first satellite Aryabhata to missions such as Chandrayaan and Aditya-L1 and the upcoming ‘Gaganyaan’ programme.

He said, Bengaluru had become a nerve centre of India’s space activities, with institutions such as the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) and ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) playing key roles in the country’s space missions.

He said, the State Government was establishing science centres in Shivamogga, Raichur, Yadgir and Chikkamagaluru at a combined cost of about Rs. 59 crore. Work on the Shivamogga centre was nearing completion, while construction was progressing in Raichur.

He said, the Government had proposed to establish Bengaluru Science City at Hosahalli in Doddaballapur at an estimated cost of Rs. 230 crore, as announced in 2024-25 State Budget.

Planetariums were already functioning in Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Gadag, while the facility at Chittapur was ready for inauguration. Planetariums were also under construction in Dharwad, Madikeri, Belagavi and Bagalkote, he added.

Referring to the Karnataka Space Technology Policy 2025-30, the CM said it aimed to promote startups, strengthen research, develop skilled manpower and encourage collaboration between industry and academic institutions.

Karnataka had also established India’s first State Government-led Space Technology Centre of Excellence to promote innovation and commercial opportunities in the sector.

He commended the Indian Institute of Astrophysics for its contribution to astronomy and solar science, including the development of a key payload for the Aditya-L1 mission.

‘Another feather in Karnataka’s cap’

In her address, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that the COSMOS-Mysuru Planetarium should reach nearly 10,000 educational and research institutions across Karnataka, providing students with opportunities to learn about science and astronomy.

She said, Karnataka had made significant contributions to science and technology and continued to play an important role in India’s scientific progress.

Recalling Mysuru’s rich scientific and educational heritage, Nirmala Sitharaman said, the erstwhile Maharajas of Mysore had extended considerable support to education and scientific pursuits. The new planetarium would further strengthen this legacy by encouraging children to take an interest in science and astronomy.

Describing the planetarium as another feather in Karnataka’s cap, she said it would benefit students while also adding to Mysuru’s tourism potential. Visitors coming to see the facility were likely to explore other attractions in the city, thereby benefiting local businesses.

The planetarium would serve as an important source of information on space for students and visitors, she added.