Karnataka’s second-largest planetarium and science centre likely in Hampi

Hospet: The state’s second largest and Kalyana Karnataka’s largest planetarium and science centre is set to be developed in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, announced N.S. Boseraju, Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science and Technology recently.

The Minister visited Kamalapur in Vijayanagara district, a prominent tourist destination in Kalyana Karnataka, to inspect the proposed site and review initial preparations for the establishment of the science centre and planetarium.

 Prime land allocated

A strategically located 10-acre parcel of land on the main road in Kamalapur has been earmarked for the project. The Minister has instructed officials to ensure optimal utilization of the land by adopting an innovative and comprehensive design approach.

The facility will house a 12-meter nano-seam dome planetarium and a state-of-the-art science centre, making it the largest in the Kalyana Karnataka region and the second largest in the state.

The land for the project has been allocated by the Karnataka Tourism Department. The Minister directed officials to begin necessary preparations to kick start construction activities.

Highlighting the government’s vision, the Minister said, “To nurture scientific temperament and promote interest in science and technology among youth in the Kalyana Karnataka region, several new initiatives are being launched. As envisioned by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, we are working towards establishing science centres and planetariums in every district. Given Hampi’s global significance as a heritage site, our objective is to provide high-quality science infrastructure here.”

Sadashiva Prabhu, Managing Director of the Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), along with senior officials from the Department of Science and Technology and district administration, were present during the visit.