The night sky is only the beginning. The Center for Astronomy + Space Exploration (CASE) will invite guests of all ages to journey from familiar constellations to new frontiers.
CASE will carry forward the Gengras Planetarium’s tradition of public engagement through a bold new space science center.
Admission-free public spaces, immersive planetarium shows, interactive galleries, and live programs will offer experiences unlike anything currently available in Connecticut.
CASE’s admission-free commons will blend attractions, gift shops, dining, and guest amenities in a lively public space. At the heart of the atrium, an imposing six-story Foucault pendulum will demonstrate Earth’s daily rotation. An orrery, Golden Record exhibition, and the Showcase gallery will add further points of discovery.
CASE will feature three domed theaters. The Celestial sphere will recreate the night sky through advanced projection and computer-generated imagery. The Hyperdome will pair stadium seating with spatial sound that puts audiences at the center of the action. The intimate Star chamber will host instruction, camp-ins, receptions, and rentals.
Five interactive galleries will take guests from Earth orbit to distant worlds while confronting the challenges of living and working in space. Simulator-based adventures and hands-on activities will place guests in the role of space-age explorers, asking them to navigate, investigate, and make decisions across new frontiers.
Configurable learning labs will provide flexible spaces for educators, students, and families. A Mission ready room will connect guests to live launches, recoveries, and remote space observatories. A lecture hall with a wall-to-wall video display will host presentations and the exchange of ideas. The resource center will also accommodate corporate conferences and professional events.
Gift shops, restaurants, and cafés will offer places to browse, enjoy a meal, and recharge. Public areas will include casual family fare, themed venues, and the Explorer store featuring books, gifts, apparel, souvenirs, and space-themed merchandise. Day and evening access will welcome locals and guests from across New England.
This free outdoor attraction will offer a welcoming place to explore, relax, and gather. Landscaped gardens, water features, a sundial, and the Explorers colonnade will create a setting for regular visits and special occasions. An amphitheater will provide a memorable venue for live performances under a canopy of stars.
Explorer workshops will invite curious minds of all ages to build, experiment, and explore together. After-school, evening, and weekend sessions will bring science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) to life for kids and families.
Design, build, and test robotic vehicles for the unique challenges of space exploration.
Build and launch model rockets to discover the challenges of balancing weight, fuel, and thrust.
Chase light from distant worlds through a telescope and capture the wonders of the night sky.