Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
Enjoy an interstellar experience at our space discovery centre. Find opening hours, show times and information for schools.
About the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is one of Brisbane’s most popular tourist attractions.
The venue’s centrepiece is the spectacular Cosmic Skydome, showcasing immersive fulldome shows and projections of Brisbane’s night sky and the wider universe.
The Display Zone, Sundial Courtyard and Galaxy Gift Shop mean there’s something for everyone to enjoy a great day out.
Events and shows
Want to attend a Planetarium show or event? Some events can book out quickly, so it’s a good idea to get your tickets early.
Booking information is available in event listings.
Visit the Planetarium
The Planetarium is in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha.
You can visit the Planetarium for free, but charges apply for shows in the Cosmic Skydome.
With multiple experiences and exhibitions on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do.
Plan ahead and find out which events, times and ticket prices best suit you.
Read the terms and conditions of entry to the Planetarium.
Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
Mt Coot-tha Road, Mt Coot-tha Qld 4066Monday: 10am–4pm (Queensland school holidays only)
Tuesday to Sunday: 10am–4pm
Experiences and attractions
This iconic 12.5-metre-diameter projection dome offers detailed night sky recreations.
Enjoy cosmic projections of planets, stars and constellations and guided tours with expert astronomers.
Book in advance to secure your chosen show and time.
Our gallery and foyer have a wide range of exhibits, models, and interactive displays on astronomy and space exploration.
Current exhibitions on display include:
- Earth: Our Blue Oasis: Learn about solar evolution and how the greater cosmic environment impacts Earth.
- Sir Thomas Brisbane: This display showcases the life of Sir Thomas Brisbane, his time as New South Wales Governor and his astronomical work.
- Skylore: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Astronomy: The First Australians have been observing the southern skies for more than 65,000 years, paying careful attention to subtle changes in the positions and properties of the sun, moon and stars. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders share their knowledge of the stars in this unique exhibition – a display of the rich heritage, traditions and culture of these communities.
Take home a reminder of your trip to the Planetarium from the Galaxy Gift Shop. Choose from merchandise including star charts, project kits, spacecraft and more.
Sit, relax and take in the surrounds at the Sundial Courtyard, on the eastern side of the Planetarium.
Discover the giant concrete, steel and glass sundial, used to tell the time when the sun is shining.
Transport and parking
The Planetarium is located in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mt Coot-tha Road, Mt Coot-tha.
Heading to the Planetarium for a show? Make sure you consider the show’s start time when planning your journey.
It’s approximately 5 kilometres from the CBD to the Planetarium.
Parking options include:
- free parking in the gardens’ main car park
- overflow parking in an additional car park accessible via Ada Street (in designated parking bays only)
- wheelchair accessible parking is available. You can find detailed access information in the botanic gardens' mobility map.
Buses stop at the gardens. If you’re travelling using public transport, find your best route using Translink’s Journey Planner.
If you’re cycling, you can find bike racks:
- in the car park of the Visitor Information Centre
- near the entrance to the ring road within the botanic gardens
- at the Queensland Conservation collection entry, on the ring road opposite the Japanese Gardens.
You can also ride from the city using the Bicentennial Bikeway and connect with local paths.
The closest public transport connections that accept bikes are Toowong Station (trains) and Regatta Ferry Terminal (CityCat).
Plan your trip with Translink’s Journey Planner.
To find accessible facilities, including toilets and entrances, use the mobility map.
Programs for schools
Give your students a hands-on learning experience with a trip to the Planetarium.
The venue offers a range of curriculum-linked programs covering the night sky, the Solar System and space technologies.
During a visit, your students can:
- learn curriculum-appropriate content during the Cosmic Skydome show
- have the opportunity for expert question-and-answer time in the Cosmic Skydome
- enhance your students' knowledge of the universe with a show in the Cosmic Skydome, one of the most advanced in the southern hemisphere.
Astronomers will include curriculum and age-relevant content on the night sky, our Solar System, galaxy and beyond.
An admission fee of $10.75 per student applies (when in a group of 10+ students), subject to change.
Adult supervisors accompanying pre-booked school groups with 10 or more students get free entry according to age ratios.
| Year level | Adult to child ratio |
|---|---|
| Prep and below | 1:3 |
| Primary (Year 1-6) | 1:5 |
| Lower secondary (Year 7-10) | 1:10 |
| Upper secondary (Year 11-12) | 1:15 |
To hire a bus for your school trip, email Council.
Buses can drop students off at the back of the Planetarium and next to the Visitor Information Centre.
Use the bus parking bay next to the main driveway after dropping off passengers. Alternate parking for buses is available on Mt Coot-tha Road.
Venue hire
Why not hold your next event under a sky of stars and constellations?
Wow your guests and hire the Planetarium for your next seminar, presentation or social event.
Facilities include:
- the stunning Cosmic Skydome theatre, with seating for up to 125
- the foyer, display areas and covered courtyard, suitable for cocktail functions for up to 100 guests.
Frequently asked questions
Sir Thomas Brisbane was a British Army officer, administrator and astronomer. He was Governor of New South Wales from 1821 to 1825.
The Sir Thomas Brisbane display at the Planetarium contains information about his life, career and passion for astronomy.
Mt Coot-tha Lookout is just a 5-minute drive from the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium.
Both the Planetarium and lookout are located within the popular Mt Coot-tha precinct.
After watching a Cosmic Skydome show, head to the lookout to admire the panoramic city views. Enjoy a refreshment at the onsite cafe or begin your journey into Mt Coot-tha Reserve.
Discover what else you can do in the Mt Coot-tha precinct.