Greenwich to host Luke Jerram’s Mars installation this November

Greenwich’s Old Royal Naval College is set to play host to Luke Jerram’s Mars installation starting from November 23 and running over the winter up until January 28.

Mars completes a trilogy of art installations created by the world-renowned artist that have taken up residence in the Painted Hall – an 18th century structure nicknamed “Britain’s Sistine chapel.”

Visitors to the Painted Hall will be able to see this incredible replica of our planetary neighbour, measuring at seven metres, suspended from the ceiling of the hall.

This incredible replica of our planetary neighbour, measuring at seven metres, will be suspended from the ceiling of the Painted Hall. (Image: Annabel Moeller) The artwork features an “exact scale” recreation of Mars, using NASA imagery of the surface of Mars, that is “a million times” smaller than the planet itself.

This will be accompanied by music composed by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones along with clips from NASA missions to Mars.

The artwork features an “exact scale” recreation of Mars, using NASA imagery of the surface of the planet. (Image: Annabel Moeller) To mark the installation of this famous artwork, the Old Royal Naval College will be hosting a calendar of events including Social Media Monday every Monday from 10am – 11am, where visitors will be able to take photos for social media, and Quiet Hour sessions every Friday from 10:15am to 11:15am.

The installation will be launched with a special Party Under Mars event on November 30, where guests can see the artwork after closing time with live DJ performances and a disco.

Other events include a yoga session under Mars on November 29, and guided meditation sessions as you lie down underneath Mars running on December 6 and 7.

To mark the installation of this famous artwork, the Old Royal Naval College will be hosting a calendar of events. (Image: Annabel Moeller) Kate Miners, Director of Public Engagement and Commercial at Old Royal Naval College, said: “We are thrilled to have Mars in the iconic Painted Hall. Big, spectacular art installations like this one are transformative, not just for the space but for the experience of every visitor.

“They spark the imagination, inspire conversation, and bring new life to this beautiful historic setting. We are committed to making this place a venue where art and heritage blend to create unforgettable cultural moments.”

Mars will officially open at the Old Royal Naval College on November 23, running until January 28, with regular tickets priced at £16.50 for an adult, £9.50 for concessions, and free for children aged 16 and under when accompanied by an adult.