Construction Commences on UAF Planetarium

New Planetarium Takes Shape at University of Alaska Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is set to welcome a new addition to its campus in spring 2026, as construction of a state-of-the-art planetarium has begun. The project, primarily funded by a significant $7.4 million anonymous private donation, will see the creation of a 65-seat planetarium on the west side of the University of Alaska Museum of the North.

The anonymous donor's investment has not only triggered the commencement of construction but also caught the attention of other benefactors. The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, longtime UAF supporters Sarah and Cary Keller, and the trust that recognised the power of the anonymous donor's investment, have all jumped on board as partners for this crucial component of the project.

The planetarium will boast an impressive 11-meter dome, two projectors, four image-generation computers, and theater-quality surround-sound audio with built-in lighting systems. Its seating capacity will be similar to that of the UAA Planetarium and Visualization Theater in Anchorage.

The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust has pledged nearly $500,000 towards the planetarium's projection and sound systems, while Sarah and Cary Keller have committed $125,000 to fund the planetarium manager position, inspired by the anonymous donors' generosity and shared enthusiasm for science.

According to UAF Geophysical Institute Director Robert McCoy, donor support will help elevate the programming at the planetarium. The planetarium is expected to feature a variety of content programming, especially relating to Alaska and the Arctic.

The Murdock Trust has a history of supporting the collaborative and innovative work of the Geophysical Institute and Museum of the North. Their involvement in the planetarium project is a testament to their continued support for UAF and its initiatives.

The trust recognised the power of the anonymous donor's investment and saw it as a great opportunity to partner with UAF on this crucial component of the project. The trust's recognition and support have been instrumental in bringing the planetarium to life.

The planetarium's importance to the Fairbanks community is evident in the monetary and in-kind service donations, including those from the Kellers and contractors on the project. According to McCoy, these donations highlight the community's excitement for the new planetarium.

The planetarium's project manager, Druckenmiller, expressed his gratitude towards the Murdock Trust, stating that they are an incredible partner on the planetarium project. The trust's commitment to the project, along with the anonymous donor's initial investment and the Kellers' subsequent contributions, have set the stage for an exciting new chapter in UAF's history.

As construction progresses, the UAF community and the wider Fairbanks area eagerly anticipate the opening of the new planetarium in spring 2026. The planetarium is set to become a significant educational and cultural resource for the community, offering a unique opportunity to explore the universe from the heart of Alaska.