Mirror Moon: Touch the Cosmos at Royal Observatory Greenwich
Celestial artist Luke Jerram is set to unveil “Mirror Moon,” a captivating new large-scale installation, at the Royal Observatory Greenwich from March 3, 2026. This immersive artwork is a two-meter-wide replica of our Moon, meticulously crafted from mirrored stainless steel. Jerram’s signature approach blends artistic vision with scientific accuracy, utilizing precise topographic data supplied by NASA to recreate the Moon’s diverse surface textures. A distinguishing feature of “Mirror Moon” is its interactive nature, inviting visitors to physically touch and explore its detailed topography.
This tactile engagement allows guests to run their fingers across familiar features such as craters, valleys, mountains, and smooth lava fields visible from Earth. Furthermore, the installation offers a unique opportunity to experience the heavily cratered “far side” of the Moon, a region that remains unseen from our planet. Jerram expresses his hope that “Mirror Moon” will inspire future generations to develop a keen interest in contemporary science, art, and the profound wonder of the night sky, drawing inspiration from the Royal Observatory Greenwich which has influenced his work for over two decades. The project is a commission for the Museum, making it a significant part of its ongoing story.
“Mirror Moon” continues Jerram’s acclaimed portfolio, which includes previous large-scale replicas of Earth, the Moon, and Mars. These earlier installations have been showcased at prestigious venues like the Natural History Museum, Southwark Cathedral, and Greenwich’s Old Royal Naval College. The current artwork will be prominently displayed in the Meridian Courtyard at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, positioned directly alongside the historic Prime Meridian line. The article focuses exclusively on the educational and inspirational benefits of the installation, such as fostering public engagement with celestial bodies and scientific concepts, and does not mention any associated risks or drawbacks. Tickets for this unique, immersive experience are priced at £24 for adults and £12 for children.
(Source: https://londonist.com/london/art-and-photography/luke-jerram-mirror-moon-royal-observatory-greenwich)
