About This Show

Thursday, 21st December, 3:30pm

Duration 60min Approx

What was the famous Star in the East that guided the Wise Men to the birthplace of Christ? This show presents an astronomical detective story, exploring the various possibilities for the Christmas Star. Was it a star, a bright planet, a rare grouping of planets, an exploding star, a bright comet, a spectacular shower of shooting stars, or an exceedingly rare display of the Northern Lights?

Directions & Map.

Please Note

The only entrance for walkers, cars buses, lorries, coaches, PoGo sticks or Space Hoppers, is by the High School entrance in Kingsham Road, then follow the signs to "The South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre" It is located at the southern end of the Chichester High Schools campus.

There is no direct access off the Chichester Bypass. All access via Kingsham Road only.

Click here to download a printable copy.

Car Parking

Please note there are two free car parks available.

The South Downs Planetarium one of two car parks.

Note for Satnav users.

Satnav postcode use PO19 8EB

In what3words uk use

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Prices and Admission

• Admission: Adults £8:00. Children 6 to 16 years £5:00.
• Not Suitable for children under 6 years of age.
• Duration 60min Approx

Opening Times

Because we are a charity run by volunteers we are only open for the public shows from 45 minutes before the published show time. Therefore there is no facility to accomodate casual vistors.

Seating

The seats in the main auditorium are ex-aircraft seats. Those in the first two rows are set at a slightly reclined angle to provide the best possible view. They can, however, be tipped forwards to enable easier access to the rows behind when entering and leaving. The seats in the back row do not recline. They provide a wide view of the entire dome area, which some of our visitors prefer.

Important Information

• With Covid infection rates still high, we remain committed to the safety not only of our visitors but also our team of dedicated volunteers.
• If you are testing positive for Covid, or are feeling unwell, or have a persistent cough, please do not come to the Planetarium. Email us with details of your booking and we can arrange a refund.
• We have in place greatly improved ventilation and enhanced air quality, with 100 percent fresh air inside the main auditorium, and additional professional deep cleaning of the building and seating areas on a regular basis.
• Please use hand sanitiser on entry and exercise good hand hygiene during your visit. Those who wish to wear a face covering are very welcome. We have now reinstalled all the seats in our main auditorium.
• Patrons at public shows are free to circulate in the waiting areas and may now sit where they like in the auditorium.

Gift Aid

Please also consider making a donation under the Gift Aid scheme. It costs you nothing and gives us more. Download the Gift Aid form here