JustUpdateOnline.com – Jakarta, The long-dormant Planetarium at Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) has officially resumed operations after a 13-year hiatus. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung led the inauguration ceremony on Thursday (25/12), marking a significant milestone in the restoration of the capital’s premier scientific and cultural landmark.
The reopening follows an extensive redevelopment of the TIM complex. Governor Anung highlighted that the completion of various infrastructure projects has paved the way for the return of public educational activities. To enhance the visitor experience, the facility now boasts state-of-the-art visual technology and an interactive AI Virtual Host, providing a more immersive and contemporary journey through the cosmos.
Affordable Entry and Special Student Access
During its initial launch phase, the management is offering a special promotional rate to ensure broad public access. From December 2025 through April 2026, general admission is priced at an affordable Rp10,000.
Furthermore, the facility is providing free entry for students. This policy applies to holders of the Kartu Jakarta Pintar (KJP) as well as students from outside the capital, provided they present a valid student identification card upon arrival.
Booking Procedures and Visitor Guidelines
Due to limited seating capacity for each session, the management has implemented a mandatory online reservation system. Prospective visitors can find booking details via the official Instagram account @tim.cikini. By clicking the link in the "Teater Bintang" highlight, guests can select their preferred showtimes.
Reservations must be made one day in advance (H-1) through the provided digital form. Once the quota is reached, the link will automatically close. Successful registrants will receive a confirmation email and are required to arrive at the venue at least one hour before the show begins.
Physical tickets can be collected at the Information Center located in the Trisno Soemardjo Building. Once checked in, visitors will be directed to the Star Theater on the second floor. It is important to note that all registrations are final; the management does not allow for refunds, cancellations, or rescheduling. Additionally, the Star Theater remains closed every Monday and on national holidays.
A Legacy Restored
The Jakarta Planetarium was originally envisioned by President Soekarno in 1964 as a means to advance scientific understanding and combat superstition. It was officially opened in 1968 by then-Governor Ali Sadikin, with its first public show taking place in early 1969.
While it served as one of Southeast Asia’s most advanced astronomical facilities for decades, the venue ceased operations in 2012. A comprehensive renovation project began in 2019 as part of a wider TIM revitalization. Despite facing several delays between 2021 and 2024, the facility is now fully restored and ready to welcome a new generation of stargazers.