Espace Mendès-France, Science and culture center in Poitiers, France

Espace Mendès-France is a science and culture center in Poitiers with a planetarium that projects thousands of stars on its dome. The facility has several exhibition areas where you can explore different scientific topics through interactive displays.

The Espace Mendès France opened in 1989 as a centre for scientific, technical and industrial culture, continuing the work of the GLACST association founded in December 1980. That group had organised the 1982 exhibition "Trois millions d'années d'aventures humaines" at the Musée Sainte-Croix, which drew 30,000 visitors. In 1984 it became the Maison des sciences et techniques de la région Poitou-Charentes, and the first stone of the building, designed by Jean Monge, was laid on 20 December 1985.

The center serves as a gathering place for people curious about how science shapes our understanding of the world. You will find regular talks and exhibits that make scientific ideas approachable for everyone.

The center is open on weekdays in the morning and may have varying closing times depending on the day. It is worth checking the exact opening hours before your visit, especially if you want to attend specific programs.

The planetarium is known for its high quality projection that creates a realistic view of the starry sky. Visitors often mention that sitting under this artificial sky dome feels remarkably close to gazing at the real night sky.