Morrison Planetarium
Morrison Planetarium: Journey Through the Cosmos
Morrison Planetarium: A Window to the Universe
Journey through the cosmos at the Morrison Planetarium, a state-of-the-art digital dome offering breathtaking views of the universe in Golden Gate Park.
Located within the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park, the Morrison Planetarium is one of the world's largest all-digital planetariums, offering immersive and scientifically accurate visualizations of the cosmos. With its state-of-the-art technology and captivating shows, it's a must-see for space enthusiasts of all ages.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Morrison Planetarium
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, Golden Gate Park, California, 94118, US
Monday
9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday
9:30 am-5 pm
Friday
9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday
9:30 am-5 pm
Sunday
11 am-5 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, several MUNI bus and Metro lines provide convenient access to the California Academy of Sciences. The 44 O'Shaughnessy bus stops directly in front of the Academy on Music Concourse Drive. Alternatively, the 5 Fulton bus stops at Fulton St. and 8th Ave., a 5-minute walk to the Academy. A single ride on MUNI costs $2.75, or a day pass can be purchased for $5.50. Clipper cards and the MUNI Mobile app are accepted.
Walking
From the Japanese Tea Garden, head east along the Music Concourse, passing the de Young Museum on your right. The California Academy of Sciences will be on the left side of the concourse. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and is mostly flat.
Driving
If driving, navigate to Golden Gate Park and follow signs for the California Academy of Sciences. Limited street parking is available throughout the park, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially on weekends and holidays. The Music Concourse Garage offers underground parking adjacent to the Academy, accessible from both Fulton Street/10th Avenue and Music Concourse Drive/MLK Drive. Parking at the Music Concourse Garage costs $5.25 per hour on weekdays and $6.25 per hour on weekends. Evening flat rate (after 5:30 PM) is $6.25.
Local tips
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Arrive at the Academy early and reserve your planetarium show tickets immediately upon entry, as shows often sell out, especially during peak season.
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Check the daily schedule for showtimes and descriptions to choose the best experience for your interests and age group.
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Combine your planetarium visit with other Academy exhibits like the Steinhart Aquarium and Osher Rainforest for a full day of exploration.
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Consider visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays or late afternoons) for a less crowded experience.
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Take public transportation or the free Golden Gate Park Shuttle to save on parking and reduce your environmental impact.
Discover more about Morrison Planetarium
The Morrison Planetarium, nestled within San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences, provides an unparalleled journey through the cosmos. Since its opening in 1952, and later upgraded to a digital dome in 2008, the planetarium has remained at the forefront of astronomical education and entertainment. It stands as one of the largest all-digital domes globally, enveloping visitors in an awe-inspiring experience.
Stepping inside the 75-foot dome is like stepping into another world. Cutting-edge technology projects breathtaking images of stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae, all based on the latest scientific data. The frame of the dome, mimicking the tilt of planet Earth, is composed of 100 percent recycled steel and supports a NanoSeam projection screen that seems to disappear when lit, creating a true-to-life recreation of luminous, faraway space and skies.
The planetarium's shows are not just visually stunning; they are also educational, providing insights into the workings of the universe and the latest discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics. Free reservations are required for all shows and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Morrison Planetarium also welcomes some of the brightest stars in the astronomy world to the stage as part of the Benjamin Dean Astronomy Lecture series.
The planetarium has a rich history, being the first major planetarium projector ever built in the United States. In 1957, it hosted the world's first psychedelic planetarium light show, Vortex concerts, a precursor to surround sound. The original planetarium was retired in 2003 and reopened in 2008 as an all-digital dome.
A brief summary to Morrison Planetarium
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