Space Place at Carter Observatory — Attraction in North Island

Space Place at Carter Observatory in Wellington offers an extraordinary experience for visitors. Nestled atop the botanical gardens, the journey to the observatory itself presents stunning views of Wellington. Upon entering, visitors are immediately transported into a world of astronomy that is both educational and mesmerizing.

The planetarium show is a highlight, with stunning visuals projected onto a dome ceiling, making viewers feel like they are journeying through the stars and galaxies far beyond our own. The narration provides a wealth of information about the cosmos in an accessible and engaging way.

Beyond the planetarium, Space Place is filled with interactive exhibits that cater to all ages. Exhibits about the Southern Skies, constellations visible from New Zealand, and powerful telescopes used to explore deep space engage visitors in the wonders of astronomy. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, eager to answer questions and share their enthusiasm for space exploration.

The observatory itself is a significant attraction, offering a tangible connection to the history of astronomy in New Zealand. Peering through the telescope offers a unique experience, linking visitors with the explorers of the past under the same starlit sky, albeit with the advantages of modern technology and understanding.

For anyone interested in astronomy, or for families seeking an educational and fun outing in Wellington, Space Place at Carter Observatory is a must-visit destination. It's not merely a place to learn about stars and planets; it's an opportunity to ignite curiosity and wonder about the...

This observatory has it all: existential dread that rivals the deepest Kurzgesagt videos and psychedelic planetarium shows that rival the Beetles' "I Am The Walrus." If you weren't convinced you were an insignificant slab of breathing meat sitting on a pale blue speck in the endless void of the cosmos, you will be once you reach the end of the space exhibit. Alternatively, you'll also learn about the Māori creation story and the many Kiwis who have contributed to humanity's journey into the stars.

The planetarium shows vary in scope and content, ranging from your run-of-the-mill "LoOk aT tHeSe cOoL sTaRs" to artist-produced acid trips. The show I had the pleasure of being visually assaulted by was titled "Xyzzy," pronounced however you want. It depicted rotating flesh mandalas, wriggling yarn worms, and masked humanoids clothed in checkered carpet. "Xyzzy" was akin to a gory traffic accident: you stare out of intrigue but you're equally uncomfortable and confused—uncomfortable because of the grotesque horror you see, confused because you've never seen a human shaped like that before.

All in all, Space Place is a strange—nay, magical—place that changes everyone who steps...

The heavens declare God's handiwork...

We were mesmerised by the exhibit in this place and definitely an ideal educational trip.

Science is the study of matter and how things came to be and despite the theories that the universe came out of a chaotic event, such a order of a universe and galaxy does not seems to tally with that theory.

From the exhibit, it is said that the stars are actually formation of gases. And since I am a firm believer of creation theory, may I say that through God's breath and command the universe came into being. Of course, it is debatable and I how can we conclude our theory based on a theory itself?

Anyway, we enjoy the show in the planetarium and we saw the amazing telescope... which was more than 150 years old. We saw the surface in close proximity and it is awesome!

This is really a well deserving place to visit.

Warning: the cable car cease at 7pm and the telescope viewing begin at 7:30pm. After the telescope viewing, we have to find our way back through bus...