ONE of Hampshire's fastest-growing attractions is hoping to receive an intergalactic boost.

Britain's largest planetarium will open at the Intech science centre near Winchester next March.

The new 180-seat facility, believed to cost about £500,000, will use state-of-the-art digital simulation so that audiences will feel they are travelling through the universe.

The so-called "immersive theatre" has a 17-metre screen so huge it covers the ceiling and sides of the dome.

Floating It will seem as if the viewer is floating among the planets, asteroids and galaxies. The experience will be enhanced by reclining seats and a surround-sound system.

In addition to the public shows, a large demand is expected from schools because the solar system and universe is part of the National Curriculum.

The size of the planetarium will allow whole year groups to visit thereby helping schools with their organisation. A manager for the planetarium will be appointed who will create and present the shows.

Intech director Phil Winfield said: "It was always envisaged to have a planetarium at Intech since its move to Morn Hill in 2002.

"The dome was built then but only now, with the generous support of SEEDA, the South East Economic Development Agency, has this important development become possible.

"We are really excited about this project. You could say we are over the moon."

In the past two years the number of visitors to Intech has risen by some 30 per cent. Only the new Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth has seen a sharper rise, said Mr Lane.