We were looking for projection technology that could match the ambition of our programming - something bright, reliable, and built to last. With Barco, we found exactly that.
Immersive astronomy: Galileo Planetarium enters a new orbit with Barco
Argentina · 2025
The Galileo Galilei Planetarium, located in the Buenos Aires’ Palermo district, has long served as a gateway to the stars. Known for its iconic UFO-like dome and immersive educational experiences, the planetarium is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. As part of its ongoing mission to inspire curiosity about the cosmos, the planetarium recently embraced a major technological upgrade, partnering with Barco to enhance both its indoor and outdoor projection systems.
Barco solutions:
- 2x QDX-W35
- 6x I600-4K10
Key benefits:
- Robust performance with minimal upkeep
- Superior visual quality improves immersion
- Future-proof design and long-term stability
- Trusted brand with regional recognition
Context
Since its inauguration in 1968, the Galileo Planetarium has stood as a symbol of Argentina’s commitment to science, education, and architectural innovation. Designed by architect Enrique Jan, the building is one of the few in the world based on the geometry of the equilateral triangle, a symbol of unity and mathematical harmony. Nestled within the lush Parque Tres de Febrero, the planetarium has hosted generations of visitors eager to explore the cosmos through interactive exhibits, educational shows, and immersive dome projections.
Over the years, the planetarium has evolved to keep pace with technological advancements. From its original mechanical projection systems to more recent digital upgrades, the venue has consistently sought to deliver cutting-edge experiences. In 2025, the planetarium took its most ambitious step yet: a full-scale projection overhaul, both inside the dome and across its iconic exterior.
Challenge
The planetarium’s transformation involved two major projection initiatives – previously powered by competitor brands – each with its own set of technical and creative requirements.
The first focused on the exterior of the building, where the team sought to revitalize the nightly projection mapping experience. The previous system had become increasingly difficult to maintain and was no longer meeting the visual standards expected for such a prominent public display. The goal was to implement a more modern, reliable solution that could deliver vivid, high-impact visuals with minimal maintenance, even in outdoor conditions.
The second project centered on the interior dome, where immersive astronomical shows are presented to visitors. The existing projection setup lacked the brightness and color fidelity needed to fully engage audiences in the 20-meter dome environment. The planetarium team was looking for a solution that could significantly enhance image quality, reduce the need for frequent recalibration, and support a wide range of educational content with long-term stability.
Solution
To bring both initiatives to life, the Galileo Planetarium selected Barco projection systems for their performance, reliability, and ease of integration.
For the outdoor projection mapping, the team installed two QDX-W35 projectors. These high-brightness units were chosen for their ability to deliver crisp, vibrant visuals across the building’s curved façade. Designed with a standard external cooling system and built for long-term durability, the QDX projectors significantly reduced maintenance costs while improving operational efficiency and enhancing the visual impact of the nightly light shows. Their compact design and modern architecture made them an ideal fit for a permanent outdoor installation.
Inside the 20-meter dome, the team upgraded to six I600-4K10 projectors, replacing the previous system with a solution that offered twice the brightness and superior color performance. The I600’s 4K resolution and long-lasting laser phosphor performance provided a dramatic improvement in image clarity and consistency, allowing for more immersive and visually rich educational presentations. The planetarium team praised the I600’s ability to maintain calibration over time, reducing technical overhead and ensuring consistent show quality.
Barco’s reputation for quality, combined with its responsive support and intuitive software tools, made the transition smooth and future-proof. The planetarium now benefits from a projection system that not only meets today’s standards but is built to last for years to come.
“We were looking for projection technology that could match the ambition of our programming - something bright, reliable, and built to last,” said Claudio Screta, Technology Leader at Galileo Galilei Planetarium. “With Barco, we found exactly that. The new systems have transformed both our dome shows and our outdoor displays, and the support we received throughout the process made all the difference.”
Results
The transformation has been nothing short of stellar. The outdoor projection mapping now delivers vibrant, high-resolution visuals that light up the Buenos Aires night, drawing attention to the planetarium’s iconic architecture and enhancing its role as a cultural landmark. Inside, the dome projection system has elevated the visitor experience to new heights. Shows are brighter, more colorful, and more immersive than ever before.
With Barco technology at its core, the Galileo Galilei Planetarium has reaffirmed its place as a beacon of scientific discovery where architecture, astronomy, and innovation converge to inspire the next generation of explorers.
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