Moon Palace inspires next generation of creative minds at John Smeaton Academy
Members of the School of Physics & Astronomy once again jumped aboard the Moon Palace to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers with exciting workshops that blended science and art.
Moon Palace blends a mix of art and science with an observatory mounted on a converted school bus. Initially commissioned for LEEDS 2023 Year of Culture and Smeaton300, Moon Palace is inspired by the legacy of civil engineer and astronomer John Smeaton and the observatory he built in East Leeds. This visit to John Smeaton Academy, only a few miles from the birthplace of John Smeaton himself, represented somewhat of a pilgrimage home for the Moon Palace project.
The visit gave students a unique opportunity to explore the connections between creativity and scientific inquiry, and to meet professionals working in both fields. John Smeaton Academy made a point of selecting cohorts that included a high proportion of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring those who may have fewer opportunities were at the heart of the experience.
Over the day, students boarded the Moon Palace and took part in interactive sessions with artist Claire Irving of the East Leeds Project alongside members of our own Astrophysics research group – John Ilee, Emma Alexander, Zuzanna Joncyzk, and Caitlin Gough. All shared their expertise and experiences, fielded thoughtful questions, and encouraged students to consider pathways into science and the arts.
Moon Palace was designed from the outset to be a welcoming third space for immersive experiences – separate from traditional views of ‘home’ or ‘work/school’ – the combination of artistic design and sensory experience leads to a unique arena for discussion, exploration, and contemplation. The effectiveness of this was apparent; students were enthusiastic and curious throughout the sessions. While some groups engaged straight away and began asking questions immediately, others grew more confident as the discussions unfolded.
Visitors learned about connections between arts and science, including how the artwork on board was inspired by real astronomical objects and observations (Credit: Zuzanna Joncyzk)
A standout moment of the visit came during the final session with students from the school’s Horizons scheme, which caters to neurodivergencies and special educational needs. The group was exceptionally enthusiastic while taking part in the session, asking insightful questions and sparking lively discussions. The session was so well-received that it significantly overran, much to the delight of everyone involved.
Later in the day, Moon Palace was opened to the local members of the public as members of the Leeds Astronomical Society joined the team. A brief break in the overcast skies allowed a view of sunspots on the face of the Sun through the Moon Palace’s optical telescope, equipped with a solar filter. Several students from the daytime sessions returned with their parents, showing them what they had learned earlier in the day.
Across the board, feedback was highly positive, with many students describing the experience as inspiring, enjoyable, and eye-opening. Commenting on the day, David Craine, Assistant Principal for Science and STEM, said: “Thank you ever so much for being able to facilitate the visit of Moon Palace to JSA. The students had a brilliant day. For me, the opportunity to talk to real astronomers and Claire as the resident artist was gold. The students quickly identified with them and realised that with application, these fields are open to them.”
Moon Palace will continue its journey to inspire the public about the interface between the arts and sciences throughout the autumn.
Further information
- Lead image credit: Thomas Irving.
- If any members of the School of Physics & Astronomy would like to get involved in future activities, please contact Erin McNeill or John Ilee.
