By Jessie Scanlon
Like a round round moon, the new planetarium in Valencia, Spain, captivates. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Spanish architect celebrated for his implausible bridges and buildings, the Hemisfèric opened in May. In the overall design, form follows function, or at least celebrates it: The cement ball, protected by a partially open steel and glass shell, suggests a watchful eye. The theater in the inner globe screens Imax films in addition to celestial laser shows. An adjacent science museum and arts center - also Calatrava creations - will open next year.
ELECTRIC WORD
Eyeballing the Sky
