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The Doran Planetarium is the largest planetarium in Northern Ontario. Our various astronomy presentations are designed to educate and entertain groups of all ages. We are proud members of the International Planetarium Society and the Canadian Council of Science Centres.
Let us recreate the night sky for you. As you sit under our 10-metre wide dome, the sky comes ablaze with the twinkling of hundreds of bright stars. Our bank of auxiliary projectors helps you visualize the constellations as our narrator explains when and where to look for the inhabitants of the night sky.
After many millenniums of observing the night sky, humans still looks to the heavens in awe. We still have this ardent desire to find out what is out there in the far depth of space. Today, young minds turn to the sky and realize that they now have a chance to go where we have only dreamed about. A visit to the planetarium will allow them to see what awaits them if they take up the challenge and pursue a career in science. Do not let their fear of sciences and mathematic spoil their dream.
On most days of the year, the Doran Planetarium is available upon request for demonstrations in English and French to students attending primary or secondary schools, as well as other interested groups.
Shows
Ever wish to have a custom tailor made astronomical planetarium presentation? We now offer you the opportunity to choose the content of your next planetarium visit.
Included is a list of 11 topics from which you can choose the material you wish us to present to your class. From this list pick seven or eight sub-topics and we will prepare a custom made show. All we need to know is what grade you are teaching and we will adapt the presentation to the proper age group.
A typical presentation would last about 60 to 90 minutes. To make the most of your visit we can prepare a longer presentation that suits your needs.
We will prepare an outline for your approval, including total time requirements. If you agree, within a week your presentation will be ready.
This new offering is offered to you at no extra cost. As always, it's $4 per student. Teachers and chaperones are admitted for free.
At the end of the show, we invite students to ask questions. If you wish, and we encourage you to do so, have your students prepare a list of questions that they would like to ask. A visit to the Planetarium is not only an educational experience; it’s a lot of fun.
$4 per visitor
Note: teachers, supervisors and the bus driver are admitted free with their group.
Planetarium shows are not recommended for children under 5 years of age.
The Doran Planetarium is in the Fraser Building on the Laurentian University campus. Its entrance is located to the left in the lobby of the Fraser Auditorium.
Parking is available next to the Fraser Auditorium in Lot A (see map)
Parking lot A fees: $2.00 per hour
Bus drivers may drop off or pick up their passengers at the entrance of the Fraser Building.
Someone will be available to direct the buses to the appropriate parking area. During the academic year, buses may be required to park off campus.