Essential Information
| Type | Planetarium shows |
|---|---|
| Location | |
| Date and Times | Select Saturdays and Sundays | 10.30am |
| Prices | £10 Adult | £5 Child |
| 10% off for members. Not a member? Join now |
Our Astronomy and Islam shows are held before the predicted sighting of the next new crescent Moon.
A Royal Observatory Greenwich astronomer will guide you through the stars in a special planetarium show, usually followed by a short presentation from the New Crescent Society, a Muslim community-led astronomy organisation. Free entry to the Historic Royal Observatory Site is included with this show.
This programme is run in collaboration with the New Crescent Society.
There are a few variations of this show, each focusing on slightly different aspects.
Tickets on sale soon.
Saturday 26 April: Introduction
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show is a general introduction to some of the links between astronomy and Islam. It features how to spot the next New Crescent Moon, how Arabic astronomers helped lay the foundation of modern astronomy, and different tales of Arabic constellations.
Recommended ages 7+. No under 5s.
Sunday 25 May: Astronavigation
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show looks at how traditional Arab navigators used the stars to help them find their way at sea, and locate the direction for prayer in Islam. You will also learn how the night sky changes over time, and to use celestial objects today to know your direction, useful for spotting the New Crescent Moon.
Recommended ages 11+. No under 5s.
Sunday 22 June: The Sun
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show is about the connection between Islam and our closest star. It explores how the Sun’s position relates to both the times and direction of prayer.
Recommended ages 11+. No under 5s.
Saturday 19 July: Family Special
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This version of the show is most suitable for families with younger children. It focuses on the Arabic stories behind some of the constellations visible on the night of your visit and the New Crescent Moon.
Recommended ages 7+
Saturday 23 August: Prophet's Birth
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show is a special version of the introduction show. It features how to spot the next New Crescent Moon, and the sky on the night of the Prophet Muhammad's birth.
Recommended ages 7+. No under 5s.
Saturday 20 September: Prophet's Birth
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This show is a special version of the introduction show. It features how to spot the next New Crescent Moon, and the sky on the night of the Prophet Muhammad's birth.
Recommended ages 7+. No under 5s.
Sunday 19 October: Family Special
10:30am | Royal Observatory Greenwich
This version of the show is most suitable for families with younger children. It focuses on the Arabic stories behind some of the constellations visible on the night of your visit and the New Crescent Moon.
Recommended ages 7+
Plan your visit
All planetarium shows including Astronomy and Islam are available to book online and by phone. Shows are very popular and often sell out: to prevent disappointment, we recommend booking tickets in advance.
Click here to book online or contact the Bookings team on 0208 312 6608. The office is open Monday-Sunday, 9am-5pm.
Check out the full list of upcoming planetarium shows and events here.
Frequently asked questions
Can children attend?
Yes! Most of our Astronomy & Islam shows are suitable for ages 11+ with children under 5 not being admitted. The Family Special show is recommended for ages 7+, though younger children will be admitted. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
How long will the show last?
The planetarium shows last up to 30 minutes, followed by a talk from a community leader lasting up to 15 minutes.
Where is the Peter Harrison Planetarium?
The Peter Harrison Planetarium is part of Royal Observatory Greenwich, a quick, easy journey from central London via train, DLR and bus.
The Planetarium itself is located on the lower floor of the Modern Astronomy Centre (sometimes referred to as the ‘South Building'). If you come to any part of the Royal Observatory site, staff can guide you to the Planetarium.
Please note that the Observatory is at the top of a steep hill within Greenwich Park, around a 15-minute walk from the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House. Latecomers cannot be admitted once a show has started, so please check your route beforehand.
When should I arrive?
Please allow enough time to get to us and aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before the show’s start time on your ticket, as latecomers cannot be admitted.
Can I bring a pushchair?
Pushchairs are not allowed into the planetarium itself, but there is a designated buggy park in the foyer.
Can I visit the Observatory too?
Yes! Each ticket purchased includes free access to the historic observatory site.
What provisions are in place to support those with additional needs?
From choosing the best show and ticket type to being inside the planetarium, check out our full accessibility information here.
I have another question.
Check our frequently asked questions here. If you're still not sure, call or email the Bookings team.
Call: +44 (0)20 8312 6608
Email: bookings@rmg.co.uk
What’s On
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