Auedamm 20A34121, Auedamm 20A, Kassel
Auedamm 20A34121, Auedamm 20A, 34121 Kassel, Germany
Planetarium Kassel | Program & Tickets
In the Staatspark Karlsaue, just a few steps from Kassel's city center, lies the Orangerie – and within it, the Planetarium Kassel, the largest planetarium in Hesse. Under the 10-meter-wide dome, the stars become astonishingly real thanks to modern hybrid technology: The opto-mechanical Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 conjures up thousands of stars visible to the naked eye in brilliant sharpness on the dome, while the digital Velvet-Duo system expands the view deep into space – from the International Space Station to distant nebulae and galaxies beyond our sight limits. The program is aimed at all generations: children's and family formats, introductory tours of the current night sky, thematic fulldome shows, and musical special screenings. To make planning easy, all dates are announced in the event calendar; bookings can be made comfortably online or by phone. The location in the Karlsaue also makes the visit a relaxing outing: Before or after the show, a walk over the Karlswiese, along the Fulda, or through the baroque park is worthwhile. Those arriving by car will find numerous parking spaces on Auedamm; the Orangerie is easily accessible on foot from the city via public transport. Thus, an evening under the stars becomes a rounded cultural moment – right in the heart of Kassel.
Program and Performances at the Planetarium Kassel
The program in the Orangerie follows a clear basic principle: The night sky is at the center. In many presentations, the current night sky over North Hesse is first explained – with easily understandable orientation tips: How do I find the North Star above the Big Dipper? Which constellations dominate the seasons? Why does their position change? Afterwards, the dome opens for a thematic journey: sometimes through our solar system with its eight planets and their dance around the sun, sometimes virtually to the International Space Station or out to supernova remnants and star formation regions. The house's hybrid technology is ideal for this: The Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 provides the fine, natural appearance of a real night sky – free from pixelation, with clearly recognizable constellations. Additionally, the digital Velvet-Duo fulldome system allows for 360-degree projections, zooms, and visualizations that blend smoothly into the star field. This makes distances, movements, and physical processes easily understandable. The planetarium also curates special formats that connect astronomical knowledge with culture. Music shows featuring the groundbreaking music of Pink Floyd are popular, creating an immersive experience with their atmospheric sound in the dome. The house offers age-appropriate shows for children and families with clear language, illustrative images, and a duration that ideally balances attention and curiosity. Schools and daycare centers can book exclusive performances upon request – didactically prepared formats facilitate integration into the curriculum. For all visitors: Entry is only possible for booked performances, so timely reservations are recommended. The event calendar is continuously updated and reflects in real-time which performances are available. Additionally, the city of Kassel informs about the offerings and directly refers to the booking options. Thus, the Planetarium Kassel is not only a place of wonder but also a reliable partner for education, family time, and inspiring evenings under the stars.
Tickets and Prices: How to Book Your Visit
To ensure your experience starts off relaxed, the Planetarium Kassel focuses on simple booking and transparent prices. Reservations can be made online via the official site of Hessen Kassel Heritage; alternatively, the visitor service accepts phone reservations from Thursday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00 at 0561 31680-123. The rates are straightforward: Adults pay €8, reduced tickets cost €5. Children and young people under 18 years as well as students of the University of Kassel receive a heavily discounted ticket (€2). For groups of 20 or more, a flat rate of €5 per person applies for regular performances, and exclusive presentations – for companies, clubs, or private events – are available as a package. Schools and other educational institutions can book their own exclusive school performances at a flat educational rate; the didactic concept is tailored to age group and topic. Important to know: Entry to the dome hall is only permitted for booked performances, and food or drinks are not allowed in the hall. For safety and quality reasons, children under 3 years are not permitted in the audience area. Since the number of seats in the dome hall is intentionally compact (54 seats), early booking is especially worthwhile for weekends, holiday dates, or particularly in-demand shows like music programs. For last-minute availability, the event calendar helps – it reflects the current booking situation and possible additional performances. Those who are flexible often find seats available later in the afternoon. Tip: If you are planning a group or class trip, it is best to coordinate your desired dates and learning objectives directly with the visitor service – this way, your group not only secures the desired times but also benefits from content-specific formats. And if you want to combine your planetarium visit with a walk in the Karlsaue or a detour to the city center, the time slots in the program are ideal for comfortably arranging arrival, breaks, and return.
Opening Hours and Schedule on the Day of Visit
The Planetarium Kassel is regularly open from Thursday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00. Since entry is only permitted for performances, the show times vary depending on the day and program point; they are detailed in the house's calendar. Around holidays, there are special regulations (e.g., changed opening or closing days) that are announced in advance. Those who have booked a performance should arrive a few minutes before the start at the Orangerie to ensure a stress-free check-in and that all guests can take their seats on time. The dome hall itself is designed for concentrated experiences: Please pay attention to the guidelines regarding photography or the use of bright displays – they can impair the viewing experience. Out of respect for the audience and technology, food and drinks are not allowed in the hall, and children under 3 years cannot participate in performances for safety reasons. Thanks to the 10-meter dome and precise projection technology, a cinema-like yet even more immersive spatial experience is created in the hall: The night sky appears three-dimensional, transitions between opto-mechanical and digital representations are fluid, and even wide camera movements or zooms remain soft and easy on the eyes. For families, it is advisable to choose a show with a clear running time for younger children; the family and children's programs are optimized to spark curiosity without overwhelming. For people who are sensitive to strong visual stimuli for health reasons, the visitor service can recommend suitable formats. The Orangerie is accessible with mobility aids as a historic building; specific information on access with mobility aids and seating arrangements is supported by the team on site. If you have time after the performance, it is advisable to use the Karlswiese or the path to the Fulda – this way, the experience under the starry sky concludes with a short break in the green. The return paths to the city center are also short: You can reach Friedrichsplatz and Königsstraße in just a few minutes on foot.
Directions to the Orangerie: Public Transport, Address, and Paths through the Karlsaue
The address for navigation and arrival is: An der Karlsaue 20a, 34121 Kassel. The Orangerie forms the historic gateway to the Karlsaue – a 150-hectare park that stretches from Friedrichsplatz to the banks of the Fulda. Those arriving by train usually travel to Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe (ICE/IC, regional transport) or to the Kulturbahnhof (main station, RegioTram). From there, the planetarium is well connected via the Kassel tram network and bus lines. Many visitors get off at the central stops Rathaus/Fünffensterstraße or Am Weinberg and walk over Friedrichsplatz and the Karlswiese towards the Orangerie. For major events, the NVV recommends checking the current situation in the app or timetable information; depending on the event or construction measures, lines may be temporarily diverted. From the south – for example, from the Kassel fair or the Auestadion – the footpath leads along the Fulda over the Gärtnerplatz or Damaschkebrücke into the Karlsaue. Cyclists can comfortably reach the Orangerie via the riverside paths; bike racks are available in the vicinity, please pay attention to local signage. By car, head towards the city center/Karlsaue/Orangerie and follow the signs to Auedamm. During the winter months and on weekdays, parking is often relaxed; on sunny weekends and during peak seasons (e.g., large outdoor events or during holidays), demand can be higher. It is then advisable to allow a bit more time or to use parking garages in the city and walk the last meters. The path through the park is flat and easily walkable. Tip for families: The route via Friedrichsplatz and Karlswiese is stroller-friendly; the park has plenty of greenery and wide sightlines – perfect for letting the impressions of the show sink in.
Parking at Auedamm and Alternatives
Around the Orangerie, Auedamm is the main parking axis. On the western side of the street towards the Karlsaue, a continuous park strip with perpendicular parking spaces stretches over 1.8 kilometers between the Orangerie and the Insel Siebenbergen – up to 760 parking spaces are possible here at peak times. These areas are used collectively: by visitors to the Karlsaue and Fuldaaue, sports clubs at Auedamm, the Auebath, and guests of events in the park. Accordingly, the occupancy is subject to strong daily and seasonal peaks. On warm summer weekends, demand is high, while during the winter season and in bad weather, there are usually enough parking spaces available. Please pay attention to the signage on site; individual sections may be managed or temporarily closed, for example, during major events in the Aue or on Friedrichsplatz when traffic flows are adjusted. A good alternative is the underground garage at Friedrichsplatz in the city center. It offers around 980 parking spaces, is directly adjacent to the pedestrian zone, state theater, and Königs-Galerie, and is accessible via Auedamm and Du-Ry-Strasse. From there, the Orangerie is easily reachable on foot. If you want to avoid parking altogether, consider arriving by public transport – especially during expected peaks (museum night, open-air events, city festivals). For bicycles, there are numerous parking options along the Auedamm and at crossings to the Karlsaue. Why not combine both: Park in the city center, take a short walk over Friedrichsplatz and Karlswiese – and the perspective shift that makes the visit to the planetarium so special begins. And if you want to stay in Kassel after the performance: Gastronomy at Auedamm and in the city center is just a few minutes away, so the star experience seamlessly fits into your outing.
Technology, History, and Special Highlights
The Planetarium Kassel combines a historic setting with modern cutting-edge technology. The heart of the projection is the Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 – an opto-mechanical star projector whose finely calibrated optics represent the natural night sky with an authenticity that digital systems can hardly achieve alone. It is complemented by the Velvet-Duo system: Two fulldome projectors seamlessly play high-resolution content across the entire 360-degree dome. This hybrid solution allows for the combination of the realistic night sky with digital flights, labels, diagrams, and cinematic sequences – a significant added value for education and experience. This technology has been at home in the Orangerie since the 1990s; the dome hall was integrated into the Apollo Hall when the Astronomical-Physical Cabinet (APK) and the planetarium moved into the baroque building. The Orangerie itself was built between 1702 and 1711 and continues to shape the cityscape today. While the APK has not been regularly accessible as an exhibition for several years, the planetarium reopened in November 2024 after a closure phase and modernized components of the projection during this time – including the lighting elements were switched to durable LED technology to improve sharpness, contrast, and maintenance friendliness. The house is committed to low-threshold knowledge transfer: From introductory formats for children to family presentations to special evenings for astronomy enthusiasts, the range is broad. A highlight is the music shows with Pink Floyd's sound, which become an immersive 360-degree concert experience in the dome. The compact seating with 54 places creates a personal atmosphere that allows for questions and moderation. In many shows, the current night sky and seasonal peculiarities are explored together – an approach that establishes the connection between global astronomy and local sky observation (e.g., light pollution, visibility windows, observation tips). Exclusive morning or afternoon times are available for schools and educational institutions; topics and depth can be aligned with curricula. Those who want to experience the planetarium as a group can book exclusive performances – the visitor service advises on timing, target audience, and content design. Thus, the Planetarium Kassel becomes a stage for science, culture, and community – in the heart of the documenta city and embedded in one of the most beautiful parks in North Hesse.
Sources:
- Hessen Kassel Heritage – Planetarium (Seating, Opening Hours, Prices, Technology)
- City of Kassel – Planetarium in the Orangerie (Program Overview, Contact, Reservation)
- Visit Kassel – Planetarium in the Orangery (Location, Contact, Arrival Information)
- HNA – Planetarium Kassel Reopens in November (Modernization, Reopening)
- City of Kassel – Development Plan I/46 Auedamm (Park Strip Auedamm, up to 760 Parking Spaces)
- Parking Garage Company of the City of Kassel – Underground Garage Friedrichsplatz (Capacity, Parking Information)
- Museum Night Kassel – Music Show at the Planetarium: Pink Floyd (Program Example)
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Planetarium Kassel | Program & Tickets
In the Staatspark Karlsaue, just a few steps from Kassel's city center, lies the Orangerie – and within it, the Planetarium Kassel, the largest planetarium in Hesse. Under the 10-meter-wide dome, the stars become astonishingly real thanks to modern hybrid technology: The opto-mechanical Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 conjures up thousands of stars visible to the naked eye in brilliant sharpness on the dome, while the digital Velvet-Duo system expands the view deep into space – from the International Space Station to distant nebulae and galaxies beyond our sight limits. The program is aimed at all generations: children's and family formats, introductory tours of the current night sky, thematic fulldome shows, and musical special screenings. To make planning easy, all dates are announced in the event calendar; bookings can be made comfortably online or by phone. The location in the Karlsaue also makes the visit a relaxing outing: Before or after the show, a walk over the Karlswiese, along the Fulda, or through the baroque park is worthwhile. Those arriving by car will find numerous parking spaces on Auedamm; the Orangerie is easily accessible on foot from the city via public transport. Thus, an evening under the stars becomes a rounded cultural moment – right in the heart of Kassel.
Program and Performances at the Planetarium Kassel
The program in the Orangerie follows a clear basic principle: The night sky is at the center. In many presentations, the current night sky over North Hesse is first explained – with easily understandable orientation tips: How do I find the North Star above the Big Dipper? Which constellations dominate the seasons? Why does their position change? Afterwards, the dome opens for a thematic journey: sometimes through our solar system with its eight planets and their dance around the sun, sometimes virtually to the International Space Station or out to supernova remnants and star formation regions. The house's hybrid technology is ideal for this: The Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 provides the fine, natural appearance of a real night sky – free from pixelation, with clearly recognizable constellations. Additionally, the digital Velvet-Duo fulldome system allows for 360-degree projections, zooms, and visualizations that blend smoothly into the star field. This makes distances, movements, and physical processes easily understandable. The planetarium also curates special formats that connect astronomical knowledge with culture. Music shows featuring the groundbreaking music of Pink Floyd are popular, creating an immersive experience with their atmospheric sound in the dome. The house offers age-appropriate shows for children and families with clear language, illustrative images, and a duration that ideally balances attention and curiosity. Schools and daycare centers can book exclusive performances upon request – didactically prepared formats facilitate integration into the curriculum. For all visitors: Entry is only possible for booked performances, so timely reservations are recommended. The event calendar is continuously updated and reflects in real-time which performances are available. Additionally, the city of Kassel informs about the offerings and directly refers to the booking options. Thus, the Planetarium Kassel is not only a place of wonder but also a reliable partner for education, family time, and inspiring evenings under the stars.
Tickets and Prices: How to Book Your Visit
To ensure your experience starts off relaxed, the Planetarium Kassel focuses on simple booking and transparent prices. Reservations can be made online via the official site of Hessen Kassel Heritage; alternatively, the visitor service accepts phone reservations from Thursday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00 at 0561 31680-123. The rates are straightforward: Adults pay €8, reduced tickets cost €5. Children and young people under 18 years as well as students of the University of Kassel receive a heavily discounted ticket (€2). For groups of 20 or more, a flat rate of €5 per person applies for regular performances, and exclusive presentations – for companies, clubs, or private events – are available as a package. Schools and other educational institutions can book their own exclusive school performances at a flat educational rate; the didactic concept is tailored to age group and topic. Important to know: Entry to the dome hall is only permitted for booked performances, and food or drinks are not allowed in the hall. For safety and quality reasons, children under 3 years are not permitted in the audience area. Since the number of seats in the dome hall is intentionally compact (54 seats), early booking is especially worthwhile for weekends, holiday dates, or particularly in-demand shows like music programs. For last-minute availability, the event calendar helps – it reflects the current booking situation and possible additional performances. Those who are flexible often find seats available later in the afternoon. Tip: If you are planning a group or class trip, it is best to coordinate your desired dates and learning objectives directly with the visitor service – this way, your group not only secures the desired times but also benefits from content-specific formats. And if you want to combine your planetarium visit with a walk in the Karlsaue or a detour to the city center, the time slots in the program are ideal for comfortably arranging arrival, breaks, and return.
Opening Hours and Schedule on the Day of Visit
The Planetarium Kassel is regularly open from Thursday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00. Since entry is only permitted for performances, the show times vary depending on the day and program point; they are detailed in the house's calendar. Around holidays, there are special regulations (e.g., changed opening or closing days) that are announced in advance. Those who have booked a performance should arrive a few minutes before the start at the Orangerie to ensure a stress-free check-in and that all guests can take their seats on time. The dome hall itself is designed for concentrated experiences: Please pay attention to the guidelines regarding photography or the use of bright displays – they can impair the viewing experience. Out of respect for the audience and technology, food and drinks are not allowed in the hall, and children under 3 years cannot participate in performances for safety reasons. Thanks to the 10-meter dome and precise projection technology, a cinema-like yet even more immersive spatial experience is created in the hall: The night sky appears three-dimensional, transitions between opto-mechanical and digital representations are fluid, and even wide camera movements or zooms remain soft and easy on the eyes. For families, it is advisable to choose a show with a clear running time for younger children; the family and children's programs are optimized to spark curiosity without overwhelming. For people who are sensitive to strong visual stimuli for health reasons, the visitor service can recommend suitable formats. The Orangerie is accessible with mobility aids as a historic building; specific information on access with mobility aids and seating arrangements is supported by the team on site. If you have time after the performance, it is advisable to use the Karlswiese or the path to the Fulda – this way, the experience under the starry sky concludes with a short break in the green. The return paths to the city center are also short: You can reach Friedrichsplatz and Königsstraße in just a few minutes on foot.
Directions to the Orangerie: Public Transport, Address, and Paths through the Karlsaue
The address for navigation and arrival is: An der Karlsaue 20a, 34121 Kassel. The Orangerie forms the historic gateway to the Karlsaue – a 150-hectare park that stretches from Friedrichsplatz to the banks of the Fulda. Those arriving by train usually travel to Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe (ICE/IC, regional transport) or to the Kulturbahnhof (main station, RegioTram). From there, the planetarium is well connected via the Kassel tram network and bus lines. Many visitors get off at the central stops Rathaus/Fünffensterstraße or Am Weinberg and walk over Friedrichsplatz and the Karlswiese towards the Orangerie. For major events, the NVV recommends checking the current situation in the app or timetable information; depending on the event or construction measures, lines may be temporarily diverted. From the south – for example, from the Kassel fair or the Auestadion – the footpath leads along the Fulda over the Gärtnerplatz or Damaschkebrücke into the Karlsaue. Cyclists can comfortably reach the Orangerie via the riverside paths; bike racks are available in the vicinity, please pay attention to local signage. By car, head towards the city center/Karlsaue/Orangerie and follow the signs to Auedamm. During the winter months and on weekdays, parking is often relaxed; on sunny weekends and during peak seasons (e.g., large outdoor events or during holidays), demand can be higher. It is then advisable to allow a bit more time or to use parking garages in the city and walk the last meters. The path through the park is flat and easily walkable. Tip for families: The route via Friedrichsplatz and Karlswiese is stroller-friendly; the park has plenty of greenery and wide sightlines – perfect for letting the impressions of the show sink in.
Parking at Auedamm and Alternatives
Around the Orangerie, Auedamm is the main parking axis. On the western side of the street towards the Karlsaue, a continuous park strip with perpendicular parking spaces stretches over 1.8 kilometers between the Orangerie and the Insel Siebenbergen – up to 760 parking spaces are possible here at peak times. These areas are used collectively: by visitors to the Karlsaue and Fuldaaue, sports clubs at Auedamm, the Auebath, and guests of events in the park. Accordingly, the occupancy is subject to strong daily and seasonal peaks. On warm summer weekends, demand is high, while during the winter season and in bad weather, there are usually enough parking spaces available. Please pay attention to the signage on site; individual sections may be managed or temporarily closed, for example, during major events in the Aue or on Friedrichsplatz when traffic flows are adjusted. A good alternative is the underground garage at Friedrichsplatz in the city center. It offers around 980 parking spaces, is directly adjacent to the pedestrian zone, state theater, and Königs-Galerie, and is accessible via Auedamm and Du-Ry-Strasse. From there, the Orangerie is easily reachable on foot. If you want to avoid parking altogether, consider arriving by public transport – especially during expected peaks (museum night, open-air events, city festivals). For bicycles, there are numerous parking options along the Auedamm and at crossings to the Karlsaue. Why not combine both: Park in the city center, take a short walk over Friedrichsplatz and Karlswiese – and the perspective shift that makes the visit to the planetarium so special begins. And if you want to stay in Kassel after the performance: Gastronomy at Auedamm and in the city center is just a few minutes away, so the star experience seamlessly fits into your outing.
Technology, History, and Special Highlights
The Planetarium Kassel combines a historic setting with modern cutting-edge technology. The heart of the projection is the Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 – an opto-mechanical star projector whose finely calibrated optics represent the natural night sky with an authenticity that digital systems can hardly achieve alone. It is complemented by the Velvet-Duo system: Two fulldome projectors seamlessly play high-resolution content across the entire 360-degree dome. This hybrid solution allows for the combination of the realistic night sky with digital flights, labels, diagrams, and cinematic sequences – a significant added value for education and experience. This technology has been at home in the Orangerie since the 1990s; the dome hall was integrated into the Apollo Hall when the Astronomical-Physical Cabinet (APK) and the planetarium moved into the baroque building. The Orangerie itself was built between 1702 and 1711 and continues to shape the cityscape today. While the APK has not been regularly accessible as an exhibition for several years, the planetarium reopened in November 2024 after a closure phase and modernized components of the projection during this time – including the lighting elements were switched to durable LED technology to improve sharpness, contrast, and maintenance friendliness. The house is committed to low-threshold knowledge transfer: From introductory formats for children to family presentations to special evenings for astronomy enthusiasts, the range is broad. A highlight is the music shows with Pink Floyd's sound, which become an immersive 360-degree concert experience in the dome. The compact seating with 54 places creates a personal atmosphere that allows for questions and moderation. In many shows, the current night sky and seasonal peculiarities are explored together – an approach that establishes the connection between global astronomy and local sky observation (e.g., light pollution, visibility windows, observation tips). Exclusive morning or afternoon times are available for schools and educational institutions; topics and depth can be aligned with curricula. Those who want to experience the planetarium as a group can book exclusive performances – the visitor service advises on timing, target audience, and content design. Thus, the Planetarium Kassel becomes a stage for science, culture, and community – in the heart of the documenta city and embedded in one of the most beautiful parks in North Hesse.
Sources:
- Hessen Kassel Heritage – Planetarium (Seating, Opening Hours, Prices, Technology)
- City of Kassel – Planetarium in the Orangerie (Program Overview, Contact, Reservation)
- Visit Kassel – Planetarium in the Orangery (Location, Contact, Arrival Information)
- HNA – Planetarium Kassel Reopens in November (Modernization, Reopening)
- City of Kassel – Development Plan I/46 Auedamm (Park Strip Auedamm, up to 760 Parking Spaces)
- Parking Garage Company of the City of Kassel – Underground Garage Friedrichsplatz (Capacity, Parking Information)
- Museum Night Kassel – Music Show at the Planetarium: Pink Floyd (Program Example)
Planetarium Kassel | Program & Tickets
In the Staatspark Karlsaue, just a few steps from Kassel's city center, lies the Orangerie – and within it, the Planetarium Kassel, the largest planetarium in Hesse. Under the 10-meter-wide dome, the stars become astonishingly real thanks to modern hybrid technology: The opto-mechanical Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 conjures up thousands of stars visible to the naked eye in brilliant sharpness on the dome, while the digital Velvet-Duo system expands the view deep into space – from the International Space Station to distant nebulae and galaxies beyond our sight limits. The program is aimed at all generations: children's and family formats, introductory tours of the current night sky, thematic fulldome shows, and musical special screenings. To make planning easy, all dates are announced in the event calendar; bookings can be made comfortably online or by phone. The location in the Karlsaue also makes the visit a relaxing outing: Before or after the show, a walk over the Karlswiese, along the Fulda, or through the baroque park is worthwhile. Those arriving by car will find numerous parking spaces on Auedamm; the Orangerie is easily accessible on foot from the city via public transport. Thus, an evening under the stars becomes a rounded cultural moment – right in the heart of Kassel.
Program and Performances at the Planetarium Kassel
The program in the Orangerie follows a clear basic principle: The night sky is at the center. In many presentations, the current night sky over North Hesse is first explained – with easily understandable orientation tips: How do I find the North Star above the Big Dipper? Which constellations dominate the seasons? Why does their position change? Afterwards, the dome opens for a thematic journey: sometimes through our solar system with its eight planets and their dance around the sun, sometimes virtually to the International Space Station or out to supernova remnants and star formation regions. The house's hybrid technology is ideal for this: The Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 provides the fine, natural appearance of a real night sky – free from pixelation, with clearly recognizable constellations. Additionally, the digital Velvet-Duo fulldome system allows for 360-degree projections, zooms, and visualizations that blend smoothly into the star field. This makes distances, movements, and physical processes easily understandable. The planetarium also curates special formats that connect astronomical knowledge with culture. Music shows featuring the groundbreaking music of Pink Floyd are popular, creating an immersive experience with their atmospheric sound in the dome. The house offers age-appropriate shows for children and families with clear language, illustrative images, and a duration that ideally balances attention and curiosity. Schools and daycare centers can book exclusive performances upon request – didactically prepared formats facilitate integration into the curriculum. For all visitors: Entry is only possible for booked performances, so timely reservations are recommended. The event calendar is continuously updated and reflects in real-time which performances are available. Additionally, the city of Kassel informs about the offerings and directly refers to the booking options. Thus, the Planetarium Kassel is not only a place of wonder but also a reliable partner for education, family time, and inspiring evenings under the stars.
Tickets and Prices: How to Book Your Visit
To ensure your experience starts off relaxed, the Planetarium Kassel focuses on simple booking and transparent prices. Reservations can be made online via the official site of Hessen Kassel Heritage; alternatively, the visitor service accepts phone reservations from Thursday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00 at 0561 31680-123. The rates are straightforward: Adults pay €8, reduced tickets cost €5. Children and young people under 18 years as well as students of the University of Kassel receive a heavily discounted ticket (€2). For groups of 20 or more, a flat rate of €5 per person applies for regular performances, and exclusive presentations – for companies, clubs, or private events – are available as a package. Schools and other educational institutions can book their own exclusive school performances at a flat educational rate; the didactic concept is tailored to age group and topic. Important to know: Entry to the dome hall is only permitted for booked performances, and food or drinks are not allowed in the hall. For safety and quality reasons, children under 3 years are not permitted in the audience area. Since the number of seats in the dome hall is intentionally compact (54 seats), early booking is especially worthwhile for weekends, holiday dates, or particularly in-demand shows like music programs. For last-minute availability, the event calendar helps – it reflects the current booking situation and possible additional performances. Those who are flexible often find seats available later in the afternoon. Tip: If you are planning a group or class trip, it is best to coordinate your desired dates and learning objectives directly with the visitor service – this way, your group not only secures the desired times but also benefits from content-specific formats. And if you want to combine your planetarium visit with a walk in the Karlsaue or a detour to the city center, the time slots in the program are ideal for comfortably arranging arrival, breaks, and return.
Opening Hours and Schedule on the Day of Visit
The Planetarium Kassel is regularly open from Thursday to Sunday between 10:00 and 17:00. Since entry is only permitted for performances, the show times vary depending on the day and program point; they are detailed in the house's calendar. Around holidays, there are special regulations (e.g., changed opening or closing days) that are announced in advance. Those who have booked a performance should arrive a few minutes before the start at the Orangerie to ensure a stress-free check-in and that all guests can take their seats on time. The dome hall itself is designed for concentrated experiences: Please pay attention to the guidelines regarding photography or the use of bright displays – they can impair the viewing experience. Out of respect for the audience and technology, food and drinks are not allowed in the hall, and children under 3 years cannot participate in performances for safety reasons. Thanks to the 10-meter dome and precise projection technology, a cinema-like yet even more immersive spatial experience is created in the hall: The night sky appears three-dimensional, transitions between opto-mechanical and digital representations are fluid, and even wide camera movements or zooms remain soft and easy on the eyes. For families, it is advisable to choose a show with a clear running time for younger children; the family and children's programs are optimized to spark curiosity without overwhelming. For people who are sensitive to strong visual stimuli for health reasons, the visitor service can recommend suitable formats. The Orangerie is accessible with mobility aids as a historic building; specific information on access with mobility aids and seating arrangements is supported by the team on site. If you have time after the performance, it is advisable to use the Karlswiese or the path to the Fulda – this way, the experience under the starry sky concludes with a short break in the green. The return paths to the city center are also short: You can reach Friedrichsplatz and Königsstraße in just a few minutes on foot.
Directions to the Orangerie: Public Transport, Address, and Paths through the Karlsaue
The address for navigation and arrival is: An der Karlsaue 20a, 34121 Kassel. The Orangerie forms the historic gateway to the Karlsaue – a 150-hectare park that stretches from Friedrichsplatz to the banks of the Fulda. Those arriving by train usually travel to Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe (ICE/IC, regional transport) or to the Kulturbahnhof (main station, RegioTram). From there, the planetarium is well connected via the Kassel tram network and bus lines. Many visitors get off at the central stops Rathaus/Fünffensterstraße or Am Weinberg and walk over Friedrichsplatz and the Karlswiese towards the Orangerie. For major events, the NVV recommends checking the current situation in the app or timetable information; depending on the event or construction measures, lines may be temporarily diverted. From the south – for example, from the Kassel fair or the Auestadion – the footpath leads along the Fulda over the Gärtnerplatz or Damaschkebrücke into the Karlsaue. Cyclists can comfortably reach the Orangerie via the riverside paths; bike racks are available in the vicinity, please pay attention to local signage. By car, head towards the city center/Karlsaue/Orangerie and follow the signs to Auedamm. During the winter months and on weekdays, parking is often relaxed; on sunny weekends and during peak seasons (e.g., large outdoor events or during holidays), demand can be higher. It is then advisable to allow a bit more time or to use parking garages in the city and walk the last meters. The path through the park is flat and easily walkable. Tip for families: The route via Friedrichsplatz and Karlswiese is stroller-friendly; the park has plenty of greenery and wide sightlines – perfect for letting the impressions of the show sink in.
Parking at Auedamm and Alternatives
Around the Orangerie, Auedamm is the main parking axis. On the western side of the street towards the Karlsaue, a continuous park strip with perpendicular parking spaces stretches over 1.8 kilometers between the Orangerie and the Insel Siebenbergen – up to 760 parking spaces are possible here at peak times. These areas are used collectively: by visitors to the Karlsaue and Fuldaaue, sports clubs at Auedamm, the Auebath, and guests of events in the park. Accordingly, the occupancy is subject to strong daily and seasonal peaks. On warm summer weekends, demand is high, while during the winter season and in bad weather, there are usually enough parking spaces available. Please pay attention to the signage on site; individual sections may be managed or temporarily closed, for example, during major events in the Aue or on Friedrichsplatz when traffic flows are adjusted. A good alternative is the underground garage at Friedrichsplatz in the city center. It offers around 980 parking spaces, is directly adjacent to the pedestrian zone, state theater, and Königs-Galerie, and is accessible via Auedamm and Du-Ry-Strasse. From there, the Orangerie is easily reachable on foot. If you want to avoid parking altogether, consider arriving by public transport – especially during expected peaks (museum night, open-air events, city festivals). For bicycles, there are numerous parking options along the Auedamm and at crossings to the Karlsaue. Why not combine both: Park in the city center, take a short walk over Friedrichsplatz and Karlswiese – and the perspective shift that makes the visit to the planetarium so special begins. And if you want to stay in Kassel after the performance: Gastronomy at Auedamm and in the city center is just a few minutes away, so the star experience seamlessly fits into your outing.
Technology, History, and Special Highlights
The Planetarium Kassel combines a historic setting with modern cutting-edge technology. The heart of the projection is the Zeiss Skymaster ZKP 4 – an opto-mechanical star projector whose finely calibrated optics represent the natural night sky with an authenticity that digital systems can hardly achieve alone. It is complemented by the Velvet-Duo system: Two fulldome projectors seamlessly play high-resolution content across the entire 360-degree dome. This hybrid solution allows for the combination of the realistic night sky with digital flights, labels, diagrams, and cinematic sequences – a significant added value for education and experience. This technology has been at home in the Orangerie since the 1990s; the dome hall was integrated into the Apollo Hall when the Astronomical-Physical Cabinet (APK) and the planetarium moved into the baroque building. The Orangerie itself was built between 1702 and 1711 and continues to shape the cityscape today. While the APK has not been regularly accessible as an exhibition for several years, the planetarium reopened in November 2024 after a closure phase and modernized components of the projection during this time – including the lighting elements were switched to durable LED technology to improve sharpness, contrast, and maintenance friendliness. The house is committed to low-threshold knowledge transfer: From introductory formats for children to family presentations to special evenings for astronomy enthusiasts, the range is broad. A highlight is the music shows with Pink Floyd's sound, which become an immersive 360-degree concert experience in the dome. The compact seating with 54 places creates a personal atmosphere that allows for questions and moderation. In many shows, the current night sky and seasonal peculiarities are explored together – an approach that establishes the connection between global astronomy and local sky observation (e.g., light pollution, visibility windows, observation tips). Exclusive morning or afternoon times are available for schools and educational institutions; topics and depth can be aligned with curricula. Those who want to experience the planetarium as a group can book exclusive performances – the visitor service advises on timing, target audience, and content design. Thus, the Planetarium Kassel becomes a stage for science, culture, and community – in the heart of the documenta city and embedded in one of the most beautiful parks in North Hesse.
Sources:
- Hessen Kassel Heritage – Planetarium (Seating, Opening Hours, Prices, Technology)
- City of Kassel – Planetarium in the Orangerie (Program Overview, Contact, Reservation)
- Visit Kassel – Planetarium in the Orangery (Location, Contact, Arrival Information)
- HNA – Planetarium Kassel Reopens in November (Modernization, Reopening)
- City of Kassel – Development Plan I/46 Auedamm (Park Strip Auedamm, up to 760 Parking Spaces)
- Parking Garage Company of the City of Kassel – Underground Garage Friedrichsplatz (Capacity, Parking Information)
- Museum Night Kassel – Music Show at the Planetarium: Pink Floyd (Program Example)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Reviews
Matthias Rickert
28. August 2025
We visited the planetarium today and watched a journey through the galaxy. With the Kassel Card, it was even free for us! The show and the presentation were fantastic. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. A wonderful experience for us and our children!
Tim Taylor
1. February 2026
A rather small planetarium, but one that offers a wide variety of shows. Unfortunately, Kassel doesn't have the same level of technology as other large planetariums like those in Jena, Hamburg, or Mannheim, but the atmosphere is more personal.
Nico Beelmann
11. June 2025
Visiting the planetarium was a fantastic experience and truly enjoyable. The visual presentation was impressive, and the atmosphere very pleasant. The starry sky was particularly fascinating. Unfortunately, the planets and moons were only covered rather briefly, which was a bit of a shame – a deeper look into their properties and special characteristics would have made the experience even more exciting. Nevertheless, highly recommended for anyone interested in space.
Reiner Kahle
6. July 2025
A really lovely, small planetarium with only 54 comfortable seats – creating a wonderfully peaceful and quiet atmosphere. I attended "Queen Heaven" and the "Night of Astronomy" – both events were scientifically sound, engagingly presented, and visually stunning. The introductions were well-explained and perfectly set the mood. A great mix of entertainment and knowledge – I'll definitely be back!
Nicole Schaumlöffel
30. June 2025
A fantastic experience! We went to the Queen Heaven show at the planetarium. It was a performance featuring songs by the band Queen. It was absolutely wonderful! I've also been to a regular event at the planetarium. The presentation was excellent, with explanations of constellations, planets, and so on. I'd love to go again anytime!