Wits Anglo American Digital Dome: A New Era of Exploration and Learning
– Wits University
After undergoing significant refurbishments, the historic Johannesburg Planetarium has been transformed into the cutting-edge Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, a venue that promises to revolutionize education and engagement across multiple disciplines in South Africa.
The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is envisioned as a hub of infinite possibilities, aiming to enhance how South Africans teach, research, and interact with fields ranging from science and technology to business, arts, and humanities. This multidisciplinary facility will offer a 360° immersive experience that caters to visitors of all ages, featuring a variety of shows designed to engage both children and adults.
The new Digital Dome will open to the public in February 2025. Visit the website at https://digitaldome.wits.ac.za/
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The original Planetarium, completed in 1960, was the first full-sized planetarium in Africa. The new Digital Dome, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, has been made possible thanks to a collaborative investment of R90 million from Anglo American and Wits University. This significant investment underscores the commitment to education and innovation within the region.
“For the past 64 years, the Planetarium has entertained, inspired, and educated millions of visitors from Gauteng and beyond,” states Professor Zeblon Vilakazi (FRS), Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University. His personal connection to the Planetarium is profound: “I visited the old Planetarium in 1981 at the height of apartheid. It left a huge and indelible mark on me, sparking my interest in science and ultimately leading me to become a nuclear physicist. Through the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, we hope to inspire generations across various disciplines, including climate modeling, artificial intelligence, and the digital arts.”
The development of Johannesburg is inherently linked to the stories of Wits University, Anglo American, and the mining sector. Duncan Wanblad, Chief Executive of Anglo American, highlights the significance of this investment in education: “At Anglo American, we see investment in tertiary education as vital for advancing knowledge, driving innovation, and boosting economic growth. Infrastructure like the Digital Dome enhances learning opportunities and prepares students with the skills needed for the workforce.”
He further emphasizes the collaborative nature of this project: “It’s inspiring to witness the power of partnerships. The new Wits Anglo American Digital Dome demonstrates our ongoing commitment not only to Wits University but to the nation. This space aims to ignite interest in STEM fields for future generations.”
Transformative Technological Enhancements
The upgrades in the Digital Dome are substantial. Gone is the original Zeiss projector, now replaced by an array of ten brand new digital projectors that render visuals in stunning 8K full dome resolution. Each projector is equipped with its own image generator, managed by a master computer for optimal performance. The sound system has also received an overhaul, upgraded to an immersive 8.2 audio setup that enhances the viewer’s experience.
“We have created a high-tech, 360-degree immersive experience,” says Dr. Moumita Aich, Head of the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome. “Visitors, students, and researchers will enjoy an experience that makes them feel as if they are part of the show, whether they’re soaring through the International Space Station or following the migrations of wildebeest in the Serengeti. This facility will cater to diverse interests using the latest technology, paving the way for limitless possibilities.”
Opening Timeline
The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome will enter a pilot phase from November to January 2025, with its doors officially opening to the public in February 2025. The inaugural shows will feature six full-dome productions donated by the American Museum of Natural History. Additionally, in lieu of gifts for attendees at the launch event, Wits and Anglo American will allocate funds to ensure that learners from designated quintile 1-3 schools have free access to shows throughout 2025.
Future Developments
Wits University is committed to fostering talent locally and advancing African content development in higher education. The third phase of the Digital Dome project focuses on constructing a new wing dedicated to developing local content in partnership with the Wits School of Arts, Digital Arts, and the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct. This initiative will also connect with Wits’ new AI Institute, set to launch on 19 November within the Digital Dome.