Cardiff is set for a celestial spectacle this spring as an awe-inspiring artistic interpretation of the moon descends upon the city. The internationally acclaimed Museum of the Moon by artist Luke Jerram will illuminate the National Museum Cardiff from March 10 to April 6, offering visitors a breathtaking and immersive encounter with Earth's closest neighbour.
A Seven-Metre Lunar Wonder
This remarkable installation is a seven-metre detailed replica, created using high-resolution imagery from NASA. The artwork presents the lunar surface with extraordinary clarity, allowing every crater and sea to be studied in minute detail. Suspended in the museum's Grand Hall, the moon will be accompanied by a specially composed soundscape, blending art, science, and audio to create a truly unforgettable experience.
For Jerram, the exhibition holds special personal significance. "I studied Fine Art at what is now Cardiff Metropolitan University and used to visit the museum every weekend," he revealed. "So, some 30 years later, it's a great privilege to have my artwork on display at an institution which was so influential on my development." He expressed excitement about seeing how the moon will interact with the Grand Hall's impressive architecture.
Lunar Events and a Real Moon Rock
To celebrate the moon's arrival, the museum has organised a stellar programme of accompanying events. This includes Yoga Under the Moon with instructor Eleri Morgan, a Silent Disco: Dancing in the Moonlight with Motel Nights, and a Bedtime Story session bringing Jill Murphy’s Whatever Next! to life for Babis Bach Babies.
In an incredible addition, visitors can also get up close to a genuine piece of lunar history. A rare moon rock sample collected during the Apollo 12 mission will be on display in the Evolution of Wales gallery, providing a tangible connection to the lunar surface.
Mared Maggs, Head of National Museum Cardiff, said: "We are so excited to host this incredible installation! This exhibit promises not just a stunning visual experience for our visitors but will also create unforgettable memories and spark the imagination." She encouraged people to look out for the full programme of interactive events and workshops.
Planning Your Free Visit
In a move to improve accessibility, National Museum Cardiff now offers free general admission. While entry does not require payment, the museum advises booking a free timed ticket in advance. This helps manage visitor flow for a smoother experience and ensures attendees receive helpful updates about events and activities. Tickets can be booked via the museum's official website.
During their visit, people can also explore the museum's other attractions, including meeting Tom Bones the Mammoth, visiting the Hip Hop: A Welsh story exhibition (running until February 22), and wandering the various permanent galleries.
Tickets for the Museum of the Moon installation are available to book now. This extraordinary fusion of art and science promises to be a major highlight in Cardiff's cultural calendar, inviting everyone to gaze in wonder at our celestial companion without leaving the city.
