Florida Southern College’s planetarium reopens after 22 years

After being non-operational since 2004, the Miller Planetarium at Florida Southern College (FSC) in Lakeland has officially completed a multi-phase restoration and reopens to the public this month.

Located inside the Polk Science Building, it holds a unique distinction in architectural history: it is the only planetarium in the world designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. FSC holds the world’s largest single-site collection of Wright’s architecture.

Restoration Highlights

  • Architectural Authenticity: Exterior and interior preservation work restored the historic textile block structure, terrace roofing, and original theater-in-the-round seating layout while integrating modern insulation and structural reinforcements.
  • Modern Technology: The space was updated with a new COSM digital projection system, a Bowen acoustic sound package, and updated dynamic lighting.
  • Funding Partners: Restoration was made possible through a mix of private donations, local philanthropic contributions, state grants from the Florida Division of Historical Resources, and federal support via the Save America’s Treasures program.

Visiting & Show Information

Regularly scheduled public programming begins Saturday, September 26, 2026.

DetailInformation
Show ScheduleTuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 3:30 p.m.
Experience Duration60–90 minutes (includes a introductory history tour of the Wright-designed space prior to the show)
Ticket Pricing$20 general admission | $15 per person for families or groups of 4+
Departure PointCheck-in and show experiences start at the Sharp Family Tourism and Education Center on campus.

Rotating Shows:

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The planetarium will rotate six feature shows monthly, including God, Science, and Our Search for Meaning (narrated by Dan Brown), Destination Mars: The New Frontier, Cosmic Adventure, From Earth to the Universe, Oasis in Space, and Undiscovered Worlds: The Search Beyond Our Sun.

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