WITS’ NEW DIGITAL DOME: A VISIONARY LEAP FOR STUDENT LEARNING

Written By: Tlotlego Ranchu

The University of Witwatersrand (Wits) has officially opened its cutting-edge Digital Dome, a transformative project that has breathed new life into Johannesburg’s historic planetarium. With a R90 million renovation funded by Anglo American, the iconic dome now features a powerful 8K projection system, immersive 360-degree visuals and an 8.2 surround sound system – providing an experience for visitors of all ages. It’s more than a place to view the stars; the dome is set to become an interactive learning hub, supporting disciplines from physics to digital arts and beyond.

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is a groundbreaking space of infinite possibilities, officially launched yesterday, marking a new era for South Africa’s engagement with science, technology, business, sport, humanities, and the arts. ✨🌃

This state-of-the-art,… pic.twitter.com/i0HVLb9mOd

— Wits University (@WitsUniversity) November 13, 2024

This world-class facility, the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, allows students and researchers to engage with their studies through an immersive experience. Fields like astronomy and astrophysics will, of course, benefit directly from this technology, as students can explore celestial phenomena in unprecedented detail. However, Wits is also expanding the dome’s applications to interdisciplinary learning, inviting those in environmental studies, digital arts, and artificial intelligence to envision new possibilities within the dome’s expansive, multi-sensory environment.

To kick-start programming, Wits has secured six shows valued at about a million dollars each, generously provided free of charge by the Hayden Planetarium of the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Wits faculty, students, and select media will have access until January 31st, when the dome’s initial testing phase wraps up. The official launch is set for February 1st, opening the space to the public.

Introducing the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome ✨🌌

[WATCH] Discover worlds beyond your imagination, right here in Johannesburg at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome! Whether you’re a student, visitor, academic, or innovator, adventure awaits. From exploring the depths of… pic.twitter.com/N74XZBZvVn

— Wits University (@WitsUniversity) November 13, 2024

Part of a broader initiative, the Digital Dome contributes to Wits’ role in reimagining Johannesburg as a vibrant, innovative city, aligning with the #JozimyJozi campaign to make Johannesburg a global hub for science and technology.

Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Wits Vice-Chancellor, describes the Digital Dome as “a space to dream, discover, and innovate.”

This state-of-the-art venue not only celebrates South Africa’s contribution to global science, but also offers students and its visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in a new era of digital learning and exploration.