Donghae City Creates Space Experience Zone 'Byeolnuri Astronomical Observatory Space Zone'

Full-Scale Operation Begins in Mid-October
Hands-On Exhibitions to Spark Scientific Imagination
Expanding Local Science Culture as an Educational Space

Donghae City in Gangwon Province announced on September 30 that it has completed the creation of the new experiential space, the 'Byeolnuri Astronomical Observatory Space Zone,' designed to spark imagination and scientific curiosity among young people. The facility will officially open to the public in mid-October.

'Byeolnuri Astronomical Observatory Space Zone'. Provided by Donghae City

This project was carried out as part of the Special Education Development District initiative, with a total investment of 400 million won. It was promoted in connection with the Byeolnuri Astronomical Observatory, which opened in 2021. Approximately 615 square meters on the first and second floors of the Donghae City Youth Training Center have been utilized to create a space where visitors can enjoy a variety of space-themed exhibitions and hands-on activities in both exhibition and experience rooms.

Under the theme 'Imagination Toward the Stars, Space Travel Opening the Future,' the Space Zone offers a range of experiences. Visitors begin by receiving a 'Byeolnuriho' boarding pass, then can △watch space-themed videos at the 'Star View Theater,' △open the 'Spaceship Log' curtain to explore daily life in space, and △participate in activities such as 'Space Debris Collection' and the 'Meteorite Impact Recovery Mission.'

Additionally, △the 'Zero Gravity Photo Zone' allows guests to experience weightlessness like in outer space and take unique photos, while △the illuminated 'Star Road' offers opportunities to create memories with family and friends in various poses. Finally, at △'Frontier Planet,' visitors can experience the gravity of different planets, listen to the whispers of the stars from the 'Cosmic Chair,' and take on missions as part of a Mars exploration team. Upon completing these missions, visitors receive a 'Space Exploration Completion Certificate,' providing a sense of achievement and motivation.

Donghae City plans to further integrate the Space Zone with the existing Byeolnuri Astronomical Observatory by developing and operating a variety of astronomy education programs, as well as expanding collaborative initiatives with schools and educational institutions. Through these efforts, the city aims to revitalize local science tourism, foster a sustainable science culture ecosystem, and lay the foundation for nurturing convergent talents.

Chun Sujeong, head of the Physical Education Department, stated, "The Space Zone is more than just a place for fun; it is a meaningful educational space where young people can develop scientific knowledge and imagination. We will continue to develop exhibition and experience programs that enhance interest and motivation in space science."

The Space Zone is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and is closed every Monday.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.