Liberty Science Center To House Largest Planetarium In Western Hemisphere

JERSEY CITY, N.J. (CBSNewYork)-- New Jersey's most popular cultural institution is making a significant improvement thanks to a multi-million dollar contribution.

The largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere will soon be at Liberty Science Center.

"And size matters in planetariums. It simulates the night sky a lot more," Liberty Science Center President and CEO Paul Hoffman told WCBS 880's Peter Haskell.

He said their distinctive dome is currently just an IMAX theater, but it will soon be transformed.

"It's going to be incredible in terms of what we can teach because the experience is going to be so amazing," Hoffman added.

The $5 million project will be funded by a gift from trustee Jennifer Chalsty. The planetarium is expected to open in December 2017.