Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences
Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences, often referred to as Sharjah Planetarium, houses several fascinating exhibits such as lunar vehicles, the solar system and other things related to the universe and space science.
After joining the International Astronomical Union in 2019, the centre was renamed Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAAST).
Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences
The facility has a lot of interactive learning areas and is suitable for all ages.
A fascinating collection of meteorites in all shapes and sizes is also on display. These have come from around the world and were part of a private collection of HH Shk Dr Sultan Al Qasimi.
SAAST sits in the middle of Cosmic Park. The golden dome is the sun and the planets sit around it each in their own orbit. Look closely at the planets to see how each has been made to resemble the real planet.
Although many of us tend to think of the centre as the planetarium and an educational centre for children to learn about space, it is, of course, more than that. The Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology is a recognised contributor to research and development in astronomy and space sciences.
The observatory, in a separate building has a number of high-tech telescopes along with other specialised equipment and used by the University of Sharjah. It is open to visitors at certain times such as during eclipses or other special events. You can find details of these events on their website.
Several labs are located in the observatory studying different aspects of space.
Sharjah Planetarium Shows
Sharjah Planetarium has recently been renovated and fitted with new state-of-the-art technology to project digital space shows onto the interior of the huge dome.
The shows are held daily and you can see the schedule on the SAAST website. They are worth watching for both adults and children. Make sure to book in advance.
Sharjah Planetarium Opening Times: Mon-Weds 9am-3pm; Thurs 9am-3pm, 4-7:30pm
Sharjah Planetarium Entry Fee: Adults AED 22, children 4-12 AED 11, under 4 free (but under 4 not allowed in the planetarium.)
Last updated: 19/12/23
Buy Exploring the Emirate of Sharjah – Walking and cycling tours and itineraries in the city and Central and Eastern Regions – buy now
Buy Exploring the Emirate of Sharjah – walking, cycling tours and itineraries
Buy The Ultimate Guide to the Emirate of Sharjah now to help plan your trip
What else is nearby?
- Holy Quran Museum in Sharjah
- Islamic World Garden
- House of Wisdom and the Scroll Monument
- University City
- Martyrs’ Monument and Halls
Other fun and educational places to visit in Sharjah
- Natural History and Botanical Museum, Sharjah Desert Park
- Wasit Wetland Centre
- Classic Car Museum
- Sharjah Science Museum
✅ Follow on Instagram or Facebook for regular photos, tips and snippets of cultural and historical information too.
👥 Join the Glimpses of UAE Facebook group
🗞️ Sign up for the Glimpses of the UAE Newsletter
📍Take me to the Glimpses of the UAE Map to find nearby locations and plan my trip.
🥾 See some of my hiking trails, walks and off-road trips on Wikiloc.
🇴🇲 To see my Oman trips, visit In Scotterati Footsteps