The Arizona Science Center’s Dorrance Planetarium has undergone an otherworldly transformation—and a new name to match. Reopening to the public on Oct. 18, the Dorrance DOME offers an immersive digital experience with breathtaking 360-degree visuals and sweeping sound, reminiscent of The Sphere in Las Vegas. This state-of-the-art LED dome brings science, art and the natural world to life through innovative technology, specialized design and shared experiential content. Highlights include stunning visual resolution, a seamless wrap-around screen and transformative programming.

“This name change reflects more than just a new look. It’s a reimagining of what a planetarium can be,” says Jacquie Dorrance. “The Dorrance DOME will inspire generations to come, igniting curiosity and wonder in Arizonans through an immersive journey. It’s more than a digital dome—it’s a legacy of learning and discovery.”

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Adds Guy Labine, Arizona Science Center Hazel A. Hare president and CEO: “Visitors aren’t just watching. They’re immersed in storytelling, space exploration and scientific discovery. The Dorrance Planetarium is reimaging STEAM education while setting a new standard in scientific storytelling.”

With 106 fixed seats, 88 movable chairs and multiple ADA-compliant options, the space can comfortably seat up to 194 guests while optimizing the viewing experience.

From Oct.18 through Nov. 30, Dorrance DOME will host ticketed daily screenings of four immersive shows. Visit azscience.org/experience/dorrance-dome to purchase advanced tickets or learn more.

Fall 2025 Programming

Astronomy Tour: Arizona
● Produced by Arizona Science Center
● Daily Showtime: 12:30 p.m.
● Embark on a live, presenter-led journey through Arizona’s legendary night skies. Discover the state’s deep-rooted astronomy heritage, stunning celestial sights, and cutting-edge space science in this immersive planetarium experience—perfect for all ages.

Black Hole: First Picture
● Produced by Cosm Studios
● Daily Showtimes: 11:45 a.m., 2:45 p.m.
● Follow the groundbreaking quest to capture the first image of a black hole. This full-dome film showcases real footage from global observatories in the Event Horizon Telescope network, exploring the Messier 87 galaxy and the Milky Way’s core. Shot across 10 countries with minimal CGI, Black Hole: First Picture highlights the global collaboration that made the invisible visible.

Orbital
● Produced by Cosm Studios
● Daily Showtimes: 11:00 a.m., 1:15 p.m.
● Take an animated journey from the Big Bang to low Earth orbit in Orbital. Created by Guy Reid and Planetary Collective, this film offers a poetic, visually striking experience inspired by astronauts who’ve seen Earth from above—inviting you to feel your own “Overview Effect.”

Inside Pop Art
● Produced by Cosm Studios
● Daily Showtime: 3:30 p.m.
● Step into a vivid, animated exploration of pop art’s rise—from 1950s Britain to 1960s New York. Featuring works by Haring, Lichtenstein, and others, Inside Pop Art reveals how this bold movement shaped fashion, branding and culture.