Observing the sky and its brilliant and beautiful stars is an engaging experience for individuals of all ages. Many people are interested in seeing the stars and meteors with more clarity and detail. The Mina Dome in Tehran provides the opportunity for individuals to embark on a journey into the heart of the Milky Way galaxy and to have thrilling moments.
This structure, with its unique architecture and blue-domed ceiling, known as the Mina Dome or the City Planetarium, is situated in the heart of the Water and Fire Park complex, presenting a captivating sight. To view this beautiful complex, one must cross the Nature Bridge.
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Address and access ways
The Mina Dome is located in Vanak Square in Tehran, and to visit it, you must pass through the Haghani Expressway to the east and the Jahan Koodak intersection until you reach the end of Shahidi Street and the Water and Fire Park. Due to its excellent location, access to this site is very convenient. To get to the Water and Fire Park and visit the Mina Dome, you can use public transportation such as the metro, buses, or taxis.
If you choose the metro to reach the Mina Dome, Line 1 and Shahid Haghani Station should be your destination. After descending, you will need to walk a bit and cross the wooden walkways of Taleghani Park and the Nature Bridge to reach the Water and Fire Park and the Silk Bridge, from where you can see the Mina Dome. However, if you prefer to take a bus to this complex, you should disembark at Afriqa Intersection Station, and then, by passing through the Water and Fire Park and the Silk Bridge, you can reach the Mina Dome.
If you prefer to drive to visit this beautiful architectural piece with your personal vehicle, you should park your car in Taleghani Park parking and head towards the Mina Dome. For this purpose, you need to enter the east exit of Haghani Metro Station from Haghani Expressway to reach the parking area. Additionally, you can also reach the Mina Dome by taking the route through Modares Expressway to Argentina Square and Nelson Mandela Street, then moving towards the entrance of Golestan City to reach the Mina Dome.
The idea of building the Mina dome
When the construction of the Nature Bridge and the Water and Fire Park began, the idea of building this complex was also raised, and this project started in collaboration with the Tehran Municipality concurrently with other projects that were underway in the Abbas Abad area. The construction project of the Mina Dome in Hazrat-e Ibrahim Park continued from 1387 to 1393 and was inaugurated at the end of 1393. This project is a fascinating representation of the sky, displaying the Milky Way galaxy and providing comprehensive information about it for visitors to this dome. Additionally, in this complex, other useful and educational content on sciences such as chemistry, physics, geology, and many others is presented for those interested in gaining knowledge in these scientific fields.
Attractions of Mina Dome
The attractions and exciting programs of the Mina Dome have made it a popular destination for visitors. Especially students and pupils from Tehran province choose Mina Dome as an educational and beautiful destination for their one-day trips.
Covering an area of 1800 square meters, the Mina Dome, the largest planetarium in the Middle East, has a capacity of 150 people. Inspired by Iranian-Islamic architecture, this structure showcases scientific and astronomical concepts in a three-dimensional way.
What is a planetarium?
You might be wondering what a planetarium is and would like to gather information about it. A planetarium is a hall established with the aim of enhancing the knowledge of individuals interested in the field of astronomy and the night sky. The planetarium hall presents the sky and the planets within the Milky Way galaxy in the most beautiful way possible to its visitors. The sky-viewing hall in the Mina Dome is one of the world’s educational institutions that operates in the field of teaching astronomy.
Planetarium structures are usually dome-shaped with special projectors placed inside, thereby putting the night sky on display for spectators and enthusiasts.
There are many planetariums in the world, some of the most famous and largest ones include:
Peter Harrison’s Planetarium in London
– This planetarium, opened in 1987, is known for its 12-meter dome and captivating displays.
Nagoya planetarium in China
– With an 18-meter dome, this planetarium was the world’s largest at the time of its opening in 1997.
Newyork Planetarium in USA
– Opened in 1935, this planetarium is one of the most famous in the world, renowned for its educational programs and mesmerizing displays.
What was the reason for choosing the shape of the sun for the Tehran Mina dome?
In the construction of this beautiful and educational complex, an attempt has been made to use traditional Iranian architecture in the best possible way, incorporating symbols and sculptures of rich Iranian literary concepts to create an unparalleled celestial view that is admired by all and has many enthusiasts. Ancient Iranian architecture has attached great value and importance to the symbol of the sun, holding a special and high place for everyone. Ancient religions extensively utilized the sacred sun and the sun as a symbol of divine light. By choosing the sun shape for the Mina Dome, the aim was to ensure that all these aspects are considered, and that ancient architecture and its symbols catch the attention of any viewer at first glance.
The architectural style used in the Mina dome
In all parts of the Mina Dome, including the entrance, the building’s ceiling, and its interior sections, the architecture, which is Iranian-Islamic and traditional in style, stands out, with each part having notable characteristics that we will thoroughly examine below.
Mina dome entrance
The entrance of the Mina Dome complex is designed and constructed to resemble the flames of the sun, and visitors to this complex are immediately greeted with a gallery of very beautiful images of celestial bodies and various planets as they pass through the entrance, which is incredibly captivating and striking.
The ceiling
The ceiling of the Mina Dome is designed in a dual-layered form, drawing inspiration from traditional Iranian architecture. The outer layer features a networked ceiling, while the inner layer constitutes the main ceiling of the planetarium hall. In the inner part of the ceiling, intricately and delicately crafted models of the solar system are installed in three dimensions. Observing these models evokes a dreamlike experience and a space journey for visitors.
The design of the interior parts of the Mina dome
Pictures of celestial bodies
Inside the Mina Dome, very beautiful images of celestial bodies and galaxies are displayed in the form of photographs and posters. These images are so beautiful and realistic that by looking at each section of the hall, visitors are given a glimpse of the celestial.
Unique design
The designers of the Mina Dome have utilized all parts of the hall with unparalleled grace to evoke the awe-inspiring space of the Milky Way galaxy and the night sky. Among the columns of the complex, spheres are placed that showcase the solar system. Earth, the moon, Mars, and many other planets are simulated in precise and beautiful detail in this complex.
Scientific displays
In addition to images, arrays, and other equipment, there are numerous displays and CDs inside the Mina Dome that are used to show scientific and educational photos and videos related to astronomy and astrophysics.
A journey to space
Located in the Ab-o-Atash Park, the Mina Dome, with its professional and principled design and construction, offers visitors an unparalleled experience that transcends earthly boundaries. It is as if by stepping into this place, a journey to the Milky Way galaxy begins, encompassing an indescribable excitement for every individual.
The realism and scientific accuracy in the Mina Dome have transformed this complex into an educational and valuable place for astronomy enthusiasts. Depicting everything in this space accurately and naturally provides an opportunity for learning and exploration into the depths of space.
Mina Dome, more than a planetarium
Unlike other observatories, the Mina Dome is not limited solely to showcasing galaxies and celestial bodies but serves various purposes. Besides functioning as an observatory, this exceptional dome also serves as an astronomical observatory and facilitates the viewing of phenomena such as eclipses.
Furthermore, the Mina Dome is equipped with telescopes that astronomy enthusiasts can use during specific hours on certain days of the week. Thanks to these unique services, the Mina Dome has somewhat brought the activities of observatories and the central planetarium in Tehran under its umbrella and has gained special importance and status among astronomy enthusiasts.
Different sections of the Mina dome
The Mina Dome complex or Planetarium shines with its sun-like appearance in the heart of the Ab-o-Atash Park, opening a world of wonders to visitors. Its various sections each offer an experience beyond Earth and invite you on an adventure into space.
The attraction for all ages
One of the most significant advantages of the Mina Dome is its appeal to all ages. Adults and children alike can enjoy and be entertained for hours in different sections of this complex, such as the astronomy museum, rocket museum, desert simulation, video walls, magic museum, and advanced planetarium room.
Museums of the Dome
One of the sections inside the Mina Dome is the small and large museums known by various names, created along the walls of the main corridor of the building using glass showcases, providing useful and practical information to visitors and enthusiasts.
The Astronomy Museum
The first museum you encounter upon entering the Mina Dome is the Astronomy Museum. This museum takes you on a journey through the history of astronomy and introduces you to intriguing tools and documents.
In this museum, an astrolabe is showcased as a historical astronomical instrument. In the past, this tool was used for astronomical calculations such as the time of sunrise and sunset, the altitude and azimuth of the sun, and timekeeping. Today, the astrolabe has lost its practical use and has a historical and educational significance.
In addition to the astrolabe, a large astronomical clock is also prominent in this museum, which was a highly practical and useful tool in the past. This museum displays a collection of astronomical elements and tools, each telling an engaging story of the history of astronomy.
Space Launch Museum
Iran has had remarkable achievements in the field of satellite construction and space launchers. The Mina Dome Space Launch Museum, as an educational and engaging place, showcases this proud history.
In this museum, models of Iranian rockets, launchers, spacecraft, satellites, and space structures are on display. These models, accompanied by appropriate visual aids, provide very useful information to enthusiasts.
A visit to the Space Launch Museum is an educational and impactful experience for all ages, introducing audiences to Iran’s achievements in space.
The Lut Desert simulation
The Lut Desert simulation is one of the most captivating activities at the Mina Dome. Lut Desert is one of the hottest regions on Earth, distinguished by its unique geological features and wildlife, holding special significance for Iran. Lut Desert is renowned in the field of astronomy and has many enthusiasts. This space is well represented at the Mina Dome.
The Magic and Sorcery Museum
The Magic and Sorcery Museum is another attraction within the Mina Dome complex that takes you on a journey through the history of science and knowledge. This museum introduces the book “Al-Tahleel” and the works of three Khurasani brothers who, in the distant past, accomplished extraordinary feats using chemistry, mathematics, and physics.
Among the works of these three brothers is the construction and design of simple machines. They also undertook valuable initiatives such as sending ambassadors to various countries to learn different sciences and acquire the latest scientific knowledge.
The book “Al-Tahleel” presents interesting information about conducted research and various magical machines that have been built in the past. This book can be suitable for individuals interested in exciting works.
In the Magic and Sorcery Museum, you can observe fascinating magical machines that have been designed and built during different periods in the past.
In addition to the Magic and Sorcery Museum, there are other museums in the Mina Dome where very beautiful and valuable ancient objects with a history of over 2000 years are preserved. Among these objects, the Ashkanid battery and the Tisphone battery mentioned, are the world’s first electrochemical batteries. Evidence suggests that in ancient times, these batteries were used in ceremonies and ritual celebrations.
video walls
In the corridors of the Mina Dome, video walls or display screens are embedded, providing an engaging and educational space for visitors. These large displays showcase scientific and fictional films, taking the audience on a journey into the world of wonders.
Despite the size of these displays, there is no audio pollution in the corridors. The sound levels of the films are adjusted in a way that only people standing near the screens can hear them. This measure ensures that other visitors can explore different sections of the Mina Dome in peace.
All the different sections of the Mina Dome, including the video walls, are designed and built with great care and precision. This reflects the attention to detail and quality of the specialists involved.
periodic table
In another section of the Mina Dome corridor, various molecular models and pictures of famous scientists from around the world, along with a periodic table, are displayed. In addition to the beauty it adds to the environment, this space serves as a very suitable educational area for students and schoolchildren who have come to the Mina Dome for day trips around Tehran. Visiting the sections of the Mina Dome can nurture children’s talents, help them discover their interests, and uncover their abilities.
Iran’s space satellites are another set of beautiful and astonishing elements that captivate every viewer in the Mina Dome hall and leave them mesmerized.
The sky-view room in the Mina dome
In a part of the Mina Dome, there is a space with a capacity of 155 seats arranged in rows behind each other, with a dome-shaped ceiling with a diameter of 18.5 placed above. Visitors entering this section can sit on comfortable seats and easily recline back, gazing at the domed ceiling, and focusing to witness the beauty of the night sky.
On both sides of this hall, there are four projectors that, with the help of software, display the night sky on the unique and distinctive structure of the ceiling on a projection screen. To enhance the ambiance, the specialists in this facility have utilized special technologies for sound projection that make the audience feel like all these sounds are precisely emanating from behind this projection screen in the space. This creates a dreamy and mysterious atmosphere, making viewing the night sky in this space incredibly captivating.
This facility has provided an inclusive environment where all individuals, including those with disabilities, can enjoy watching the night sky, the Milky Way galaxy, and celestial bodies without feeling deprived, offering a unique experience. In this regard, space for wheelchair placement has been considered alongside individuals’ seats.
The planetarium show is a gateway to the secrets of the night sky
The primary duty of a planetarium is to simulate and display the night sky in an engaging and educational manner for visitors. This dome-shaped space should provide conditions where individuals can observe the breathtaking beauty of the night sky and its wonders effectively.
Planetariums are highly suitable educational environments for astronomy enthusiasts. The powerful simulations of the sky provided by the Mina Dome planetarium offer visitors an unparalleled experience. In this space, individuals can observe and study celestial phenomena from various angles without the need for special tools.
Overall, planetariums are the best tools for introducing celestial bodies and conducting research in the field of astronomy. Watching the night sky in a planetarium is an unforgettable experience that alters individuals’ perspectives on the grandeur of the universe.
Schedules of Mina dome
In the sun-shaped building of Mina Dome, exciting events await you that can entertain you for hours, take you out of your busy life, and set you on a journey to galaxies, the endless sky, and the mysterious night. With these interpretations, you will definitely not regret the experience of visiting Mina Dome. After visiting this complex and embarking on a journey to the Milky Way galaxy and witnessing the wonders of various planets and the solar system, you will gain new information and knowledge that will be very enjoyable for you, encouraging you to visit this complex again.
Film show
In a section of Mina Dome, there is a 3D cinema hall with a sloping surface that showcases 3D films related to the fields of physics and astronomy. You can dedicate about 50 minutes of your time to this thrilling 3D cinema experience. The seats in this hall are very comfortable, and viewers need to recline their seats to have a good focus on the ceiling of the hall where the cinema screen is installed, allowing them to view the images in the best and most comfortable way possible. The sounds emanating from behind this screen create a dreamy and otherworldly atmosphere, completely immersing the audience in the space.
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Final words
Stargazing is one of the popular programs of the Mina Dome Planetarium. Many visitors come to this facility with telescopes to observe the night sky and are unaware of its diverse programs. However, by visiting Mina Dome, they are introduced to a fascinating world of thrilling programs that are hard to resist.
During certain occasions throughout the year and with favorable weather conditions, Mina Dome organizes interesting programs for astronomy enthusiasts. One of these programs is stargazing with a telescope in the outdoor space of the dome. This unforgettable experience takes the audience on a journey into the depths of the cosmos, altering their perspective on the grandeur of the universe.