The Minister said: "It is nearly four years since this terrific facility was last fully operational and, as one of Northern Ireland's top visitor attractions, it has been sorely missed. Therefore, I am very pleased that further funds have been identified within my Department's existing resources towards the cost of putting the Planetarium back among the world leaders in this field.

"In April, I announced that £1 million was available to carry out the work necessary to re-open the building to the public. However, increasing the funding to £2 million will not only contribute towards a complete refurbishment of the whole facility but will also see its famous Space Theatre fully equipped with brand new state of the art technology."

Angela Smith explained that the investment would see the Planetarium, the only facility of its type on the island of Ireland, transformed into one of the most modern public buildings. Particular attention will be paid to easy access for disabled people and the Space Theatre is to be refitted with the most advanced 3D digital projection system in the world, the Digistar 3. This special computerised system will now enable the entire dome to be filled with spectacular video scenes of the cosmos.

The Minister continued: "Armagh Planetarium has established a world-wide reputation for innovation, such as using video as an integral part of its presentations and involving the audience through interactive facilities. Every major planetarium around the world now uses the technology pioneered in Armagh.

"Indeed, it has a remarkable record of being first in many fields and, by developing shows for all age groups, it has advanced the public's understanding of scientific concepts and space exploration.

"Many Mums and Dads throughout Northern Ireland will remember visiting the Planetarium when they were children. Soon it will be the turn of their children to enjoy a totally new experience and to compare notes with them.

"I am confident that the long awaited return of this unique attraction will have visitors flocking to Armagh once again for an adventure that is literally out of this world", she added.

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