Learn and explore at Al Thuraya Astronomy Center
Have you ever wondered why people are so fascinated with the stars and the planets in our galaxy and beyond? There are numerous reasons but there’s no doubt that innate curiosity and intrigue to explore the undiscovered are high on the list. At Al Thuraya Astronomy Center, you’ll get to study space, stars, the galaxy, the milky way and more.
ALL ABOUT AL THURAYA ASTRONOMY CENTER
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum gave the directives to establish the Al Thuraya Centre in 2018. This scientific awareness facility was designed to promote interest in astronomy throughout the UAE.
Al Thuraya Astronomy Center in Mushrif Park has become a popular tourist destination that attracts over a million visitors every year. The centre is also home to the region’s biggest telescope, which is open for public observation.
The main goals of the Al Thuraya Astronomy Center include:
- Encouraging space and astronomy studies.
- Creating special educational programs.
- Inspiring locals, residents and tourists.
- Promoting regional and international astronomy events.
- Laying the foundation of space and astronomy research centres.
Some highlights of Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre include:
- Innovative programmes for schools.
- Optical and radio astronomy research and development.
- Satellites and rocketry research and development.
- Meteorites and geology research.
- Robotics and electronics innovation.
- AR & VR development and deployment.
AL THURAYA ASTRONOMY CENTER SERVICES AND COURSES
ASTRO ACADEMY
INNOVATION LAB
Ever wondered how your conceptual robotics designs will look in real life? The Innovation Lab at Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre Dubai turns theories and concepts into actual working models. You can even 3D print your designs using mechanical or robotic tools.
TERRESTRIAL LAB
Geology helps us understand our own terrestrial environment and the celestial bodies (like meteorites and comets) that often land on its surface. At the Terrestrial Lab, you can expand your geological knowledge and see rocks from outer space up close.
INVENTION LAB
As the name suggests, the Invention Lab transforms innovative ideas into reality. The lab is equipped to build everything from robots to satellites.
INSPIRATION LAB
Innovation can’t happen without inspiration. Home to hundreds of thousands of physical and virtual books, the Inspiration Lab at Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre is a hub of brilliant ideas and theories.
SERVICES
TELESCOPE OBSERVATION
Observe the stars and the planets in the night sky with the latest telescopes.
- AED 20 for 10 minutes
PLANETARIUM SHOW
Enjoy an Astronomical experience at this glorious planetarium.
- AED 20 for 20 minutes
ASTRO CINEMA
View astronomy and non-astronomy-related movies & documentaries.
- AED 20 for 30 minutes
TOUR OF THE CENTER
Get a tour of the centre from the Astro Academy to the Spaceship-themed Observatory.
- AED 30 for 15 minutes.
TELESCOPE SERVICES
TELESCOPE REPAIR
Trained technicians that can service and repair a prolific amount of telescopes.
REFURBISHING/CLEANING
If your telescope has been gathering dust in the attic or the garage, you can bring it to the centre and have it made good as new.
CONSULTANCY
Don’t know what type of telescope or equipment you need to start your discovery of the cosmos? A whole team of experts is here to help.
SELL/TRADE-IN
You can easily sell your old equipment here for cash or trade it in to get credit for new instruments.
COURSES
CERTIFIED COURSES
Astronomy Self-Learning Course
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Fee: AED 500
Intro to Astronomy
- Duration: 4 hours
- Fee: AED 1,000
The Practical Astronomy Course
- Duration: 3 days
- Fee: AED 1,000
Planetary Astrophotography
- Duration: 4 hours
- Fee: AED 600
Pure DSLR Astrophotography
- Duration: 3 days
- Fee: AED 1,200
Astrophotography: Tracking & Telescopes
- Duration: 3 days
- Fee: AED 1,500
Telescope Training Crash Course
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Fee: AED 300
Meteorite Crash Course
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Fee: AED 150
3D Printing Crash Course
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Fee: AED 200
Paper Modeling Crash Course
- Duration: 1 hour
- Fee: AED 100
DUBAI ASTRONOMY GROUP
The Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) was created to encourage the study of astronomy throughout the emirate. They work with the government and private corporations to advance the field and to ensure its accessibility to the masses.
Al Thuraya Astronomy Center and DAG are operated with the help of amazing volunteers. They participate in everything from research projects to organising special events. As a volunteer, you’d gain valuable experience and insight, as well as meet people that share similar interests.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO I BOOK TOURS OR COURSES AT THE CENTRE?
You can book tours and courses by visiting Al Thuraya Astronomy Center or the official website.
HOW DO I CONTACT THE CENTRE?
You can call the centre at +971-4-221-6603 for any queries.
WHAT ARE THE BUSINESS HOURS?
- 01:00 pm to 09:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday)
- 05:00 pm to 09:00 pm (Fridays)
Take courses to expand your knowledge, learn new skills to start a new career, indulge in a fun hobby or just spend some quality time with your family and friends. Remember, there’s so much going on at Al Thuraya Astronomy Center in Dubai.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your visit today to start your exploration of the cosmos!
If you are mesmerised by all things astronomy, maybe plan a visit to any of the popular stargazing places in Dubai.
