Luke Jerram’s astonishing installation Mars is coming to the Painted Hall this winter. Following the sell-out success of Gaia and Museum of the Moon, Mars will continue Jerram’s out-of-this-world installations at the iconic Old Royal Naval College.

Measuring 7m in diameter, this spellbinding artwork features detailed NASA imagery of the Martian surface recreated to scale. Slowly rotating against the spectacular backdrop of the Painted Hall, this unique pairing will bring two breathtaking works of art together, merging science with history, myth and allegory.

“Mars follows on from my other astronomical artworks Museum of the Moon and Gaia presented in the awe-inspiring Painted Hall and allows a close encounter with the Martian planet. I hope that visitors will feel transported to its inhospitable desert wasteland and in comparison, really value our life on Earth.” – Luke Jerram.

About Mars

The installation is a fusion of Mars imagery, light and surround sound composition. Measuring 7m in diameter, this spellbinding artwork features detailed NASA imagery of the Martian surface – about one million times smaller than the actual planet.  The internally lit artwork transports us to this famed planet – the closest planet to Earth, which can often be seen in the night sky.  Mars will feature a surround sound composition by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones, including clips from NASA missions to Mars, totally immersing visitors in the experience.

Over its lifetime, Mars will be presented in several different ways both indoors and outdoors, so altering the experience and interpretation of the artwork.

Programme

Social Media Mondays
Every Monday | 10.15am – 11.15am
To better facilitate those looking for the perfect shot, the Social Media ticket has reduced capacity. Posing and selfies are encouraged! Use the hashtag #ORNCMars for a chance to be featured on our socials. Book now.

Quiet Hour Fridays
Every Friday | 10.15am – 11.15am
This session is intended for those that want to appreciate the space in a more relaxed environment with a reduced number of visitors. This session is primarily for, but not limited to, neurodiverse adults and children, and any other visitors with sensory needs who may prefer a more relaxed experience. Book now.

Lie Down & Listen | A Sound Journey Through Mars
Fri 6 & Sat 7 December | 6.30pm & 8.30pm
Immerse yourself in the experience of quantum listening, and contemplate humanity’s future from a deeply personal, introspective perspective—all while remaining grounded here on Earth. Find out more.

Festive Dining under Mars with Live Jazz
Fri 13 Dec | 7pm–10.30pm
Dine beneath Luke Jerram’s Mars in the Painted Hall as you’re serenaded by a live jazz vocalist, for an exclusive event combining exquisite food, great music, and the festive atmosphere at one of London’s most iconic venues. Book now.

Sound Healing | Serenity on Mars
Fri 20 Dec | 6pm–7.30pm
Hosted by sound healer and artist Junior Valentine, Serenity on Mars invites you to slow down, release tension, and absorb the powerful vibrations of the Mars gong. Find out more.

Mars Flow | Yoga & Brunch
Sat 18 Jan | 9am–11.30am
Set your intentions for 2025 with a transformative 45-minute vinyasa yoga session beneath Luke Jerram’s Mars installation, followed by a revitalising brunch. Find out more.

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