The Planetarium Star Theatre Needs Your Help—A Vision for the Future
Registered Name: H.R. MACMILLAN SPACE CENTRE SOCIETY
Business No: 106812183RR0001
This organization is designated by Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as a registered charity. They comply with the CRA's requirements and have been issued a charitable registration number.
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The Planetarium Star Theatre Needs Your Help—A Vision for the Future
Since 1968, The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre’s Planetarium Star Theatre has inspired generations of space enthusiasts, families, and students with its immersive experiences. However, this cornerstone of BC’s space science education is now at a critical juncture.
Why Now?
The challenges of 2024 have underscored an urgent reality: all six of the Star Theatre’s projectors are approaching the end of their operational lifespan. Temporary repairs have kept the system functioning at minimal quality, but the technology, last upgraded in 2013, is now outdated, energy-intensive, and increasingly expensive to maintain. Without immediate intervention, the Space Centre risks losing the Star Theatre’s capacity to inspire and engage its audiences.
But there’s a path forward—and you can help us secure it.
We invite your financial support to revitalize the Planetarium Star Theatre through a transformative initiative that will:
- Upgrade outdated projectors with advanced 4K+ systems for a truly immersive experience.
- Expand accessibility while integrating storytelling, history, culture, science into fun, engaging, immersive programming.
- Foster innovation in STEAM and cultural education, reaching 35,000 K-12 students each year.
- Enhance environmental sustainability with energy-efficient, LEED-certified cooling systems.
With the $350,000 from the Dept of Canadian Heritage, $150,000 from the YP Heung Foundation and the Glenn and Annetta Agnew Memorial Fund, every gift brings us closer to transforming this vital community asset.
What’s at Stake?
Imagine BC without the awe-inspiring wonder of the Planetarium Star Theatre—a unique venue visited by over 100,000 guests annually, including tens of thousands of children. The theatre is more than a destination; it’s a platform for fostering curiosity, advancing reconciliation, and driving workforce development in BC’s growing aerospace and technology sectors.
Delays in funding could jeopardize planned initiatives, including opportunities to host significant conferences and events that enhance the Space Centre’s role as a hub for innovation and collaboration. Without urgent action, we risk losing the momentum needed to sustain the theatre's vital place in BC’s cultural and educational landscape.
Your donation will support a future where:
- Visitors experience the cosmos through state-of-the-art technology.
- Indigenous knowledge is seamlessly integrated into storytelling, fostering reconciliation and cultural inclusion.
- Students are inspired to pursue careers in STEAM, ensuring BC remains a hub for innovation.
- Vibrant programming drives local economic growth and cultural tourism.
How You Can Help
The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre’s mission is to bridge science, arts, and culture, creating a shared sense of wonder about the universe. By supporting the Planetarium Star Theatre revitalization, you are investing in education, innovation, and inclusivity.
Every dollar helps us unlock municipal, provincial and federal funding, ensuring we meet the critical deadlines to secure additional grants. Together, we can position the Space Centre as a global leader in immersive education and cultural storytelling.
Will you help us renew the Planetarium Star Theatre for future generations?
Visit our website to donate and make a difference today.
Let’s build a future where curiosity knows no bounds!
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