IPS 2026 #2: Mixed Reality, Shared Domes & The Art of Storytelling

Can planetariums become the ultimate social spaces for shared VR and live performances? In the final part of our mini-series from the IPS conference, we chat with five guests about why the dome is much more than just a place for astronomy. We explore the transition to LED technology, the magic of mixed-reality concerts, and why putting humor and human connection at the center of dome content is the key to bringing in entirely new audiences.Tobias Jogler (LWL Museum of Natural History, Germany) shares his enthusiasm for the rapid technical progress of the field, from the rise of LED domes to software development. He discusses how planetariums are broadening their focus beyond astronomy to art, architecture, and live concerts, and how they are preparing content for upcoming moon missions.Jenny Shipway (Co-chair of the IPS Education Committee) on her mind-blowing experience with a live VR concert in Japan and how these virtual communities can translate into in-person dome events.Michael Daut (Worlds) on how domes are evolving into multi-purpose community spaces and why shifting towards broader family entertainment and interactive programming is key to attracting new audiences.Balázs Forgács (Mobile planetariums, Hungary) explains the profound impact of storytelling and character development in planetarium shows. He details the rise of 8K and LED technology and explains how mobile and inflatable domes are bringing highly effective educational content directly to schools. Plus, he shares his stunning experience visiting Nagoya, the world's largest planetarium!Martin Fuchs (Creative Director at Planetarium Prague, Czechia), who works with the only LED dome in Europe, talks about the paradigm shift of the dome as a "shared reality" that bridges the gap between flat TVs and isolated VR headsets. He also shares how his visit to Japan inspired him to start developing a brand new, user-driven interactive show!Keywords: IPS 2026, LWL Museum, Planetarium Prague, Nagoya Planetarium, Worlds, LED dome, 8K projection, immersive storytelling, shared reality, astronomy, immersive technologyGet in touch: [email protected]