The Powerhouse Parramatta is set to open its doors with the largest exhibition space in Australia, focusing on humanity’s relentless pursuit of space exploration. This groundbreaking exhibition, named Task Eternal, will showcase cutting-edge technology, historical artifacts, and artistic interpretations of space, marking a significant milestone for the new museum in Western Sydney.
Spanning an impressive 2,200 square meters and reaching 18 meters high, the exhibition will guide visitors through four distinct sections, each offering a unique perspective on the quest to conquer the skies. According to Powerhouse CEO Lisa Havilah, Task Eternal will blend science, technology, and creativity to inspire and educate.
“Task Eternal is an exhibition about our human ambition to get into the sky,” Ms. Havilah shared with 702 ABC Radio Sydney.
Exhibition Highlights: From Spacesuits to Lunar Probes
Among the exhibition’s highlights is the spacesuit of Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, making its public debut. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to view a prototype of the Roo-ver lunar probe, a cutting-edge project developed in collaboration with the Australian Space Agency, aimed at a lunar mission by the decade’s end.
The exhibition will also feature creative displays, including artworks from First Nations and international artists, offering diverse interpretations of space’s vast dimensions. This blend of science and art aims to provide a comprehensive view of humanity’s space endeavors.
Opening with Five Major Exhibitions
The Powerhouse Parramatta will launch with five major exhibitions when it opens in late 2026. Although an exact date has yet to be confirmed, Ms. Havilah assured that the opening would occur at the end of next year. She emphasized that all exhibitions at the new museum will be temporary, ensuring a dynamic and ever-evolving experience for visitors.
“Some will go for a year, some will go for two years, but there’ll always be new exhibitions and new stories,” Ms. Havilah explained.
The announcement of Task Eternal marks the first of the five exhibitions, with further details on the remaining projects expected to be unveiled over the coming year.
Powerhouse’s Legacy and Future
The Powerhouse Museum, a cornerstone of Australia’s science and technology landscape, has been without a physical presence since its Ultimo premises closed for extensive renovations in February 2024. The Ultimo site is anticipated to reopen to the public in 2027, promising to continue its legacy of innovation and education.
This development follows a period of significant transformation for the Powerhouse, reflecting broader trends in museum curation that prioritize interactive and temporary exhibitions. Such approaches aim to engage a wider audience and keep pace with rapidly advancing technological and scientific fields.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Task Eternal
The launch of Task Eternal at Powerhouse Parramatta represents a bold step in showcasing Australia’s contributions to space exploration and its commitment to fostering a deeper public understanding of science and technology. By integrating artistic and scientific perspectives, the exhibition seeks to inspire the next generation of explorers and innovators.
As the opening date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark event in Australia’s cultural and scientific calendar. The Powerhouse Parramatta is poised to become a beacon of discovery and learning, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through the cosmos.
