Buffalo’s Newest Planetarium Now Open to the Public

Did you know that a world-class planetarium is open again right in the heart of the city of Buffalo?

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Thanks to more than $100 million renovation project that has been happening at the State University of New York, College at Buffalo, the newly reconstructed Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium is back on the Buff State campus open to the public after an almost 10-year hiatus.

The brand new planetarium features a 35-foot dome that offers 360-degree views of the planets, the sun, moon, stars, and surroundings. The planetarium is designed for you to feel immersed with its state-of-the-art lighting and sound system that includes 4k projectors and a laser show.

The original planetarium opened on the Buff State campus back in 1964 with a 24-foot dome. A fire forced the planetarium to close in 1978, but thanks to donations from the community, the facility was able to reopen again in 1980. Over the years there were a series of events that eventually led to its closing in 2012.

Students at Buff State have been learning about Earth and astronomy for more than 50 years and with the rebirth of this amazing resource, that education is sure to continue. One of the great things about the planetarium is that its open facility, students, and the public.

The Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium is located on the Buff State campus, inside of the The Science & Mathematics Complex (SaMC) and is open to the public most weekends. You can find out more info on the planetarium's website. You are required to purchase tickets and abide by SUNY's COVID-19 protocols and policy.

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