Open now at Tsawwassen Mills, Stargazer is a multisensory, immersive experience that brings the wonders of the universe right to you — and with this article, so are we!
Stargazer features several immersive exhibits in collaboration with Space to Spoon and Vancouver’s own MacMillan Space Centre. Over the course of four unique sections, Stargazer fully immerses in all things space thanks to the clever use of today’s technology. (Including a jaw-dropping VR experience, which is discussed below!)
Visitors begin with the ‘CSA (Canadian Space Agency) Zone’. It’s a large gallery with various infographics, photos, and interactive displays that explore the history behind the iconic Space Race and how humans made it to the moon. It’s also here that you’ll learn how Canadian farmers are using space technology here on earth for sustainable agriculture — which are two things I never would have put together before Stargazer.
The final two sections are where Stargazer really lives up to its ‘immersive’ tagline.
Let’s start with the first of the two, which features a large room with surround sound and 270° wall and floor projections. Audiences are taken on a guided tour of the Milky Way with stops at each of its planets and moons.
I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about the whole thing. It seemed like just a big room with projectors. But once you sit down and the show starts, it truly feels like you’re in a different world. I spent far too much time swivelling in my chair to look around as planets and stars flew past me.
The last (but certainly not least!) section was my favourite. With the help of VR headsets, you too can achieve your childhood dreams to float alongside astronauts up at the International Space Station. While my stomach dropped the first few times I looked down, it was oddly calming to look around the vast emptiness of space while astronauts tinkered with the ISS. Although I’m still wondering if astronauts ever get queasy like I did, I guess it’s why the closest I’ll ever get to space is with events like Stargazer.
All in all, whether you’re a die-hard space fan or someone looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, Stargazer won’t disappoint.
Stargazer is open to all ages with free admission for those under the age of 3. For more information, click here.
