The AtlasCoelestisZeroG is a sculpture designed for microgravity aboard space stations and spacecraft, and is designed by Architecture and Vision. Taking its inspiration from Galileo’s telescope invention over 400 years ago that helped the grand master explain the motions of the planets, the sculpture employs a gyroscopic movement that represents the motion of planets within our Solar System.
Transported flat, in microgravity it opens up with a gentle touch and continues to rotate as the cabin air is circulated. While representing our solar system, the AtlasCoelestisZeroG also demonstrates human creativity and ingenuity.
The sculpture uses thirteen concentric aerospace-grade aluminum rings connected by rotating joints tilted by 36 degrees, creating movement that reflects light and casts shadows in its surroundings. It is 287mm (11.3inch) in diameter, 3mm (0.12inch) thick and weighs 600 grams (1.32lbs).
The AtlasCoelestisZeroG sculpture was demonstrated in the Kibo Space Station module during a communication link between the Space Shuttle launch STS-134, expedition crewmembers and Pope Benedict XVI. As human space exploration continues, art in space, especially kinetic sculptures, will become increasingly important to counter the effects of sensory deprivation, but also to fulfill their need for culture and beauty.
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