- Location: Zeiss-Planetarium, Jena
- Status: Insulation removed, dome structure exposed, renovation on schedule
- Next Steps: Installation of video projectors, sound system, and projection surface
- Goal: Completion for the 100th anniversary in July 2026
Jena, February 23, 2026. The extensive renovation work at the tradition-steeped Zeiss-Planetarium Jena is progressing according to plan. A rare sight is currently on display inside: the insulation has been completely removed, leaving the architecturally significant dome structure fully exposed. Those responsible are now looking toward the next high-tech phase of the conversion in order to welcome visitors again in time for the great anniversary in the summer.
The Naked Dome: A Rare Glimpse Behind the Scenes
As part of the current modernization measures at the Zeiss-Planetarium, the old interior insulation was successfully dismantled. As a result, the naked construction of the dome is currently completely exposed—a puristic state that remains entirely hidden from the public during regular operation. According to current information from those in charge, the complex construction work is well on schedule.
The next major milestone is the installation of modern event technology. This includes a new, state-of-the-art sound system, powerful video projectors, and a completely renewed projection surface, which are essential for the immersive visual experience in the star theater. The operating company now hopes that there will be no unexpected delays in global supply chains and that all required technical components will arrive in Jena on time.
Historical Heritage Meets State-of-the-Art Technology
The Zeiss-Planetarium in Jena, idyllically located on the edge of the Botanischer Garten and near the Ernst-Abbe-Denkmal, is not only a defining landmark of the Lichtstadt but also of enormous historical and scientific importance. As the oldest continuously operating planetarium in the world, it attracts tens of thousands of visitors, school classes, and astronomy fans every year. The current core renovation of the interior is a logistical feat designed to make the historic building fit for the coming decades.
The temporary dismantling of the projection surfaces reveals the ingenious engineering of the 1920s. The patented rod network of the dome, developed at the time by Walther Bauersfeld and the Zeiss-Werke, was an architectural sensation at the time and formed the basis for modern geodetic lightweight construction methods. When the new technology—particularly the 360-degree fulldome projection technology and the sophisticated spatial sound system—is integrated into this framework, the historical building fabric will merge harmoniously with state-of-the-art digital communication technology. This upgrade is of immense importance for Jena’s educational landscape and tourist attractiveness.
Outlook: Race Against Time Until the Anniversary
The time pressure for this ambitious major project is certainly present and leaves no room for error: In July 2026, the Zeiss-Planetarium celebrates its proud 100th anniversary, as it was ceremoniously opened to the public on July 18, 1926. For this extraordinary occasion, a comprehensive anniversary program is planned, for which the doors of the planetarium must be open.
If the expected specialized technical components are delivered on time as planned and professionally installed, nothing will stand in the way of a festive reopening in midsummer. The citizens of Jena and guests from all over the world can then look forward to a completely new, sonically and visually brilliant celestial experience.
We will keep an eye on the construction progress for you and inform you in good time as soon as the first test runs of the new projectors start in the night sky of Jena.
Source:
Umbau im Plan – Die Kuppel im Planetarium ist freigelegt
Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.