What you need for a planetarium show

A planetarium show needs more than a dome and projector. Plan for reliable power, a tested backup setup, safe cable routing, comfortable seating and a simple reception and refreshment area. Buy or bring the technical equipment first, then add lighting, furniture, reusable tableware and serving supplies. Quantities depend on attendance, but this guide helps you check the items most often forgotten before visitors arrive.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Equipment

Portable planetarium dome
Planetarium Projector
Laptop with show software
Spare laptop
HDMI cablesqty 2
Extension cordsqty 4
Power stripsqty 4
Cable matsqty 6
Portable speakersqty 2
Microphone
Microphone stand
Flashlightsqty 4

Lighting

LED Emergency Lightingqty 2
Mood lightingqty 4

Furniture

Chairsqty 90
Seat cushionsqty 30
Tablesqty 6
Tableclothqty 6
Coat racksqty 2
Bollardsqty 6

Tableware

Reusable cupsqty 120
Reusable platesqty 100
Cutlery setsqty 100
Coffee cupsqty 30
Serving traysqty 4

Kitchen

Coffee makerqty 2
Kettleqty 2
Coolersqty 3
Thermos flasksqty 4
Cutting boardsqty 2
Bread knivesqty 2
Pliersqty 4

Decorations

Star postersqty 12
Planet Postersqty 8
String lightsqty 4
Name badgesqty 100
Table numbersqty 10

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 6
Broom and dustpanqty 2
Mop setsqty 2
Bucketsqty 2
Microfiber clothsqty 12
Cleaning sprayqty 3
Hand soap dispensersqty 4
Disinfectant gelqty 4

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Decaf coffee - 1 pack
- Tea - 2 boxes
- Herbal tea - 1 box
- Sugar - 1 kilo
- Sweetener - 1 box
- Milk - 6 liters
- Oat milk - 3 liters
- Cola - 6 bottles
- Cola Zero - 6 bottles
- Sinas - 4 bottles
- Apple juice - 4 bottles
- Sparkling water - 6 bottles
- Still water - 8 bottles
- Paprika chips - 5 bags
- Plain chips - 5 bags
- Snacks - 4 bags
- Popcorn - 4 bags
- Mini pretzels - 3 packs
- Rice cakes - 3 packs
- Whole grain crackers - 3 packs
- Hummus - 4 tubs
- Cream cheese - 3 tubs
- Cucumbers - 6 pieces
- Carrots - 2 kilo
- Apples - 5 kilo
- Bananas - 3 kilos
- Grapes - 3 kilos
- Mini currant buns - 60 pieces
- Mini croissants - 60 pieces
- Gluten-free crackers - 2 packs
- Gluten-free cookies - 2 packs
- Vegan cookies - 2 packs
- Chocolate cookies - 4 packs
- Muffins - 60 pieces
- Napkins - 300 pieces
- Paper straws - 150 pieces
- Aluminum foil - 1 roll
- Cling film - 1 roll
- Paper towels - 6 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Garbage bags - 30 pieces
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- Dishwasher tablets - 30 pieces
- Sponges - 6 pieces

Tips

Prepare one projector, laptop and HDMI connection for the main setup, plus a spare laptop with the show software installed. Test the complete signal chain at least 24 hours before the first show.
Allow one chair and one seat cushion per visitor, with 5–10% extra if storage and floor space permit. Count chairs separately for volunteers and the reception desk.
For a small refreshment service, plan two reusable cups per person, one coffee cup per expected coffee drinker and enough plates and cutlery for the food you will serve. Check dietary requirements before shopping.
Use cable mats wherever HDMI cables or extension cords cross visitor routes. Bring at least two spare HDMI cables and label power strips before the equipment is connected.
Prepare the blackout and emergency setup before opening: mood lighting should be adjustable, while LED emergency lighting and flashlights must remain immediately accessible. Keep the safety route clear of chairs, tables and bollards.

Frequently asked questions

What equipment do I need for a planetarium show?: You need a portable planetarium dome, planetarium projector, laptop with show software, HDMI cables, extension cords and power strips. Bring a spare laptop and at least two spare HDMI cables so one failed connection does not cancel the show.
How many chairs do I need for a planetarium show?: Plan one chair per registered visitor, plus 5–10% extra where space allows. Add separate seats for volunteers, the presenter and anyone working at the reception desk.
How much food and drink should I buy for a planetarium event?: For the first hour, allow two to three drinks per person, then adjust for the length of the programme. Buy reusable cups for at least two servings per guest, and match plates, cutlery and coffee cups to the food and drink you will actually serve.
When should I test the planetarium equipment?: Run a full test at least 24 hours before the first show, including the projector, show software, laptop, speakers, microphone, lighting and blackout. Repeat a short power and connection check 60 minutes before doors open.

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