Havanas new Planetarium will help expand knowledge of astronomy, astrophysics, outer space and space exploration

It might be surprising to hear that the universe is coming closer to earth to showcase before human eyes the history of the solar system.

Those visiting a building in Old Havana will be presented with such an opportunity. This is where the Havana Center for Science and Technology "or "the Planetarium," as it is already known" will be located.

The planetarium, whose completion is scheduled for this year, is aimed at expanding knowledge of science, technology, astronomy, astrophysics and outer space exploration.

The focal point of the facility will be the sun, represented by a sphere approximately 11.65 meters in diameter.

The planetarium itself will have a capacity for 80 people and will provide a better understanding of the universe through a set of objects and phenomena relevant to the cosmos, said Silvia Maria Morals Perez, the architect and designer of the site.

According to engineer and site designer Abel Perez Zuniga, the center will have four floors, with the ground floor equipped with interactive and educational games that will allow people to probe the solar system. The planetarium will be on the second floor, where celestial images will be projected on a concave fiberglass screen. The third floor will feature the Astral and Galactic halls, while the fourth floor will allow access to an observatory.

The international construction effort "the result of an agreement between Japan and Cuba" is benefiting from Canada technological support in the assembly of the structure, and Spanish assistance in illuminating the complex.

Though the city had another planetarium, located in the Capitol Building, its technology is now obsolete.

(www.juventudrebelde.co.cu)