One of the world's most recognised touring art installations is coming to Greater Manchester this autumn.
From 9 September to 2 October, visitors can see Luke Jerram's Gaia at Trafford Palazzo, where the seven-metre installation will be suspended beneath the venue's central dome. Created using detailed NASA imagery, Gaia presents the Earth at a scale that allows audiences to study continents, oceans and cloud formations in remarkable detail.
Accompanied by a surround-sound composition from BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones, the installation combines art, science and sound to create an immersive experience. As the sculpture slowly rotates, visitors are invited to consider the planet from a viewpoint usually reserved for astronauts in orbit.
Gaia has toured internationally since its debut, appearing in galleries, public spaces and historic venues around the world. Trafford Palazzo marks a rare opportunity to see the work in Greater Manchester during its month-long residency.
The installation forms part of Trafford Palazzo's wider programme of cultural and visitor experiences and will be freely accessible throughout its stay. A series of accompanying events and activities are also expected to take place beneath the artwork, with details set to be announced.
A visit to Gaia can be combined with a day exploring TraffordCity, home to attractions including LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, SEA LIFE Manchester and a range of shopping, leisure and dining destinations.
The installation arrives at the same time as another of Luke Jerram's works, Museum of the Moon, which will be on display at Campfield in Manchester. Together, the two installations offer visitors the chance to experience large-scale artworks inspired by our place within the wider universe.
Trafford Palazzo is one of the region’s leading experiential destinations, bringing together a dynamic mix of retail, leisure, and immersive attractions under one iconic roof. Home to P.Louise’s first-ever permanent retail destination, P.Louise City, Trafford Palazzo also hosts a number…
Plan Your Visit
Gaia
Where: Trafford Palazzo, TraffordCity
When: 9 September to 2 October 2026
Admission: Free
Getting There
Trafford Palazzo is located in TraffordCity, around five miles from Manchester city centre. Visitors travelling by public transport can take the Metrolink to the Trafford Centre stop, with direct services operating from the city centre. From there, Trafford Palazzo is a short walk away. TraffordCity is also served by a number of Bee Network bus services connecting it with Manchester and surrounding areas.
For those travelling by car, Trafford Palazzo offers free parking and is located just off the M60 motorway.
Luke Jerram’s Gaia at Trafford Palazzo
Trafford Palazzo, one of the region’s leading experiential shopping and leisure destinations…