A new "state-of-the-art planetarium" is planned for the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the center announced Friday. The center's current SpaceDome IMAX Theater will be renovated into the new facility, the center said.

Intuitive Research and Technology Corp. will partner with the center's foundation in the renovation "to include planetary and advanced digital theater technology," a press release said. The target opening date is in 2019 in time for the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Harold Brewer, president of Intuitive with Deborah Barnhart, chief executive officer of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. (Submitted photo)

"As a scientific community, Huntsville deserves a fine planetarium capability, and we look forward to extending our relationship with the Von Braun Astronomical Society to optimize this gift from Intuitive for our community," said Dr. Deborah Barnhart, CEO and executive director of the rocket center.

"The new planetarium will be a one-of-a-kind asset to our community, as well as a spark to ignite a sense of space exploration adventure in our young people," Intuitive President Harold Brewer said. In addition to funding, he said Intuitive will provide design and engineering expertise during the renovation.

"The foundation is deeply grateful for transformative gifts and hands-on partnerships. Intuitive Research and Technology has made a thoughtful commitment to elevate and support learning through visually 'Wow!' environments," said Holly Ralston, executive director of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center Education Foundation.

(Updated on June 26, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. to correct the full name of Intuitive corportation)