Science Center launches campaign for Buhl Planetarium upgrade
The funds will go toward updating the Planetarium seating and expanding accessibility.
Carnegie Science Center is launching a new campaign to update Buhl Planetarium with needed refurbishments. The campaign will expand seating accessibility with wider, updated seats and an area of moveable seating to allow for wheelchairs, as well as refresh the theater with new carpeting. Donations on behalf of astronomy-loving friends or family can make great holiday or birthday gifts and come with perks.
Patrons will receive exclusive invitations to planetarium shows and Virtual Star Parties, donor planetarium nights, and more. Average donation levels, equated in fun space terms, vary from $3,000 (the Supergiant Supporter level) to $25, though donations of any amount are welcome.
The Planetarium hosts everything from daily shows about space volcanoes and astronomy to holiday-themed laser shows – and even offers condensed weekly Facebook livestreams for those who can’t make it to the North Shore.
The campaign last year garnered donations that supported the purchase new assistive listening devices, closed-captioning glasses, and tactile reproductions of the night sky for visitors with vision impairments. The theater experience also was upgraded to include a new Sony projection system that utilizes 10 projectors to create a seamless, synchronized True8K high resolution images – one of the most advanced in the country. The newly launched campaign will continue until enough funds are raised to replace the seats and carpeting. The Buhl Planetarium is presented by Green Mountain Energy and is a beloved staple at the Science Center.
Patrons with questions about donation or deduction specifics can direct their queries to the Carnegie Science Center Development department at 412.237.1611. Donations can be directed to the “Give Now” area on the fundraising information page: Carnegie Science Center – Buhl Seat Campaign – Seats Under the Stars (carnegiemuseums.org)
About Carnegie Science Center
Carnegie Science Center is dedicated to inspiring learning and curiosity by connecting science and technology with everyday life. By making science both relevant and fun, the Science Center’s goal is to increase science literacy in the region and motivate young people to seek careers in science and technology. One of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the Science Center is Pittsburgh’s premier science exploration destination, reaching more than 700,000 people annually through its hands-on exhibits, camps, classes, and off-site education programs.
Accessibility: Features for All
Carnegie Science Center welcomes all visitors. We work to assist visitors with disabilities in obtaining reasonable and appropriate accommodations, and in supporting equal access to services, programs, and activities. We welcome visitors in wheelchairs on the deck of our USS Requin (SS 481) submarine. Below-deck visits require full mobility. Hearing assistance devices are available for The Rangos Giant Cinema. Please ask when you buy your ticket.
Please note that requests for accommodations should be made at least two weeks prior to your visit. For specific questions about wheelchairs, strollers, or other programmatic or equipment needs, see the ticket counter located on the first floor of the main building or contact the Operations Department at 412.237.1641 or info@carnegiesciencecenter.org.
About Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
Founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1895, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh is a family of four dynamic, distinctive museums: Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Science Center, and The Andy Warhol Museum.
