Since their beginnings, planetariums have caught and held the interest of the public.
Some planetariums have fostered a sense of wonder about the sky, some have sought to teach and demonstrate the science behind the motions and objects observed in the sky, some have played a part in religious and cultural traditions, and some have been purely for entertainment.
In this Discussion, consider the historical roles that planetariums have played as well as the roles they play in society today.
In your opinion, what is the most important role planetariums can (or should) fulfill? What place do you think planetariums will have in society in the future?