Essential Information
| Type | Planetarium shows |
|---|---|
| Location |
Royal Observatory
|
| Date and Times | Select Saturdays and Sundays | 10.30am |
| Prices | £10 Adult | £5 Child |
| 10% off for members. Not a member? Join now |
This programme is run in collaboration with the New Crescent Society.
Our Astronomy and Islam shows are held before the predicted sighting of the next New Crescent Moon. A Royal Observatory Greenwich astronomer will guide you through the stars in a special planetarium show followed by a short presentation from the New Crescent Society, a Muslim community-led astronomy organisation. Free entry to the Historic Royal Observatory Site is included with this show.
There are a few variations of this show, each focusing on slightly different aspects.
Saturday 9 March: Astronavigation
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show looks at how traditional Arab navigators used the stars to help them find their way at sea, and locate the direction for prayer in Islam. You will also learn how the night sky changes over time, and to use celestial objects today to know your direction, useful for spotting the New Crescent Moon.
Recommended ages 11+. No under 5s.
Monday 6 May: Introduction
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show is a general introduction to some of the links between astronomy and Islam. It features how to spot the next New Crescent Moon, how Arabic astronomers helped lay the foundation of modern astronomy, and different tales of Arabic constellations.
Recommended ages 7+. No under 5s.
Saturday 1 June: Hajj Special
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
Before the New Crescent Moon for the month of Hajj, this show looks at how traditional Muslim navigators used the stars to help them find their way at sea. This helped them travel for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, and also locate the direction for prayer in Islam. You will also learn how the night sky changes over time, and to use celestial objects today to know your direction, useful for spotting the New Crescent Moon.
Recommended ages 11+. No under 5s.
Saturday 6 July | Sunday 1 December: The Sun
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show is about the connection between Islam and our closest star. It explores how the Sun’s position relates to both the times and direction of prayer.
Recommended ages 11+. No under 5s.
Saturday 3 August | Sunday 3 November: Family Special
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This version of the show is most suitable for families with younger children. It focuses on the Arabic stories behind some of the constellations visible on the night of your visit and the New Crescent Moon.
Recommended ages 7+.
Sunday 1 September | Saturday 28 September: Prophet's Birth
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show is a special version of the introduction show. It features how to spot the next New Crescent Moon, and the sky on the night of the Prophet Muhammad's birth.
Recommended ages 7+. No under 5s.
How to book
Planetarium shows are now available to book online and by phone. Our shows are very popular, so to prevent any disappointment we recommend booking your tickets in advance.
To book your tickets, please click here or contact the Bookings team on 0208 312 6608. The office is open Monday-Sunday, 9am-5pm.
Check out the full list of upcoming planetarium shows and events here.
Plan your visit
Can children attend?
Yes! Most of our Astronomy & Islam shows are suitable for ages 11+ with children under 5 not being admitted. The Family Special show is recommended for ages 7+, though younger children will be admitted. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
How long will the show last?
The planetarium shows last up to 30 minutes, followed by a talk from a community leader lasting up to 15 minutes.
When should I arrive?
The planetarium is part of the Royal Observatory, at the top of a hill with spectacular views across London. Please allow enough time to get to us and aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before the show’s start time, as latecomers cannot be admitted.
Can I bring a pushchair?
Pushchairs are not allowed into the planetarium itself, but there is a designated buggy park in the foyer.
Can I visit the Observatory too?
Yes! Each ticket purchased includes free access to the historic observatory site.
What provisions are in place to support those with additional needs?
From choosing the best show and ticket type to being inside the planetarium, check out our full accessibility information here.
I have another question.
Check our frequently asked questions here. If you're still not sure, call or email the Bookings team.
Call: +44 (0)20 8312 6608
Email: bookings@rmg.co.uk
What’s On
Find more events at the Royal Observatory.
