Opened in 1979 and closed in 2020, the Russell C. Davis Planetarium was once one of the best equipped and most modern planetariums in the southeast, providing residents of the greater Jackson community with access to science enrichment, education resources, and cultural experiences unmatched in the region. The Jackson Redevelopment Authority and the City of Jackson are once again collaborating to re-envision, renovate, and reopen the Planetarium. The re-envisioned facility is designed to serve as a regional hub for STEM education, climate research, and workforce training, expanding access to cutting-edge educational experiences for students, researchers, and the public.

Supported by NMTC financing, the 28,341 sq. ft. planetarium features a state-of-the-art full-dome 200-seat theater, interactive STEM exhibits, a robotics lab, and a flexible Learning Zone for hands-on exploration. As a key part of downtown Jackson’s revitalization, it also provides advanced resources for climate science and technology-focused careers, strengthening the city’s role as a leader in STEM education and workforce development.

Services Provided by Classic Lake:

• New Markets Tax Credit CDE Advisory

Community and Economic Impacts

• 102 construction jobs

• 12 new full-time jobs

• Expands STEM education and career training for Jackson Public Schools’ 20,400 students, 99% of whom qualify for free or reduced lunch

• Enhances downtown Jackson’s cultural and educational corridor, attracting visitors and reinforcing the city’s commitment to science and innovation