Measuring seven metres in diameter, Gaia features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface*. The artwork provides the opportunity to see our planet on this scale, floating in three-dimensions.

The installation creates a sense of the Overview Effect, which was first described by author Frank White in 1987. Common features of the experience for astronauts are a feeling of awe for the planet, a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life, and a renewed sense of responsibility for taking care of the environment.

The artwork is 1.8 million times smaller than the real Earth with each centimetre of the internally lit sculpture describing 18km of the Earth’s surface. By standing 211m away from the artwork, the public will be able to see the Earth as it appears from the moon.

A specially made surround sound composition by BAFTA award winning Composer Dan Jones is played alongside the sculpture. In Greek Mythology Gaia is the personification of the Earth.

Gaia has been created in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), Bluedot and the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres.

*The imagery for the artwork has been compiled from Visible Earth series, NASA.

“We’re really excited to be hosting Gaia. We live on a fragile planet facing a climate emergency. I hope that this event will give tens of thousands of people the opportunity to wonder at the beauty of the Earth. Floating in the Abbey this globe offers us a new perspective on our planet and might help us to see it as a sacred place.”
Revd Canon Nick Davies, Vicar of Tewkesbury

Gaia can be seen during the day time between 10am and 3.45pm when the Abbey is open, except 12-14 February and when the Abbey is closed for occasional events. Booking a ticket for an evening showing is the best way to experience it!