Thousands of space lovers came together at Curtin University over the weekend for Cosmos on Campus; a free event that blended science, art, and imagination to inspire the next generation of planetary explorers.
Around 9,000 people filled the Bentley campus, where giant planet replicas, glowing neon trails, live music and stargazing telescopes transformed the grounds into a galactic adventure. The event celebrated Western Australia’s world-class earth and planetary science. It gave visitors a closer look at the mysteries of both Mars and Earth.
The seven-metre-wide planet installations, created by UK artist Luke Jerram using detailed NASA imagery, allowed people to see every crater, mountain and valley of our planetary neighbours. A colourful light trail connected the planets while music and telescope stations added to the experience.
Renowned scientists gave talks and fireside chats that explored ancient rocks, deep oceans, and the role of space science in solving global challenges, from climate change to the hunt for water on Mars.
Curtin’s Director of Properties, Facilities and Development, Tim Urquhart, said the event was about bringing the community together in a celebration of discovery.
“It was wonderful to see our community bearing witness to Earth as astronauts do, pondering the vast mysteries of the universe and losing themselves in the endless wonder of the night sky,” Mr Urquhart said.
Professor Mark Ogden, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, said the event was designed to spark curiosity in young minds.
“By bringing together art, science, and storytelling, we’re aiming to inspire young explorers and innovators, and show them they can chase their interstellar dreams right here in Western Australia,” he said.
Curtin, ranked number one in Australia for earth sciences, also opened the John Curtin Gallery during the event, where visitors examined interactive research and watched videos of Luke Jerram discussing his artworks.
