Besides interactive experiences, the museum will also exhibit many rare items, including a first edition copy of the first English translation of Isaac Newton's Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy-which laid the foundation of modern physics and astronomy. It was published in 1729.

In the meteorites section, a 21.4-kilogram specimen of the Changxing meteorite will be displayed under glass. It fell onto a farm in Changxing Island in the city in 1964 and the piece held by the museum is the largest one.

Xin said the museum will organize stargazing and sun observation activities as it has a 1-meter telescope that is the biggest among astronomy museums in China, and a 65-centimeter solar telescope.

Bai Tao, former president of Qimingxing, an astronomy lovers' society in Shanghai, was among the first to visit the museum during its trial operation on Monday.

"I have visited many astronomy museums and planetariums around the world, and this one is the most modern and impressive," he said. "Its designs and exhibitions combine science and art perfectly, which leaves a feeling of the infinite universe in everyone's heart."

Another test run is scheduled for Saturday. When it's officially open, the museum will operate from 9 am to 4 pm, with entrance tickets priced at 30 yuan ($4.50) for adults and 15 yuan for students.