The Powerhouse Parramatta is set to open with the largest exhibition space in Australia, focusing on humanity’s quest to explore outer space. This groundbreaking exhibition, named Task Eternal, will showcase cutting-edge technology, spaceship components, and the rich history of space exploration over a two-year period at the new western Sydney museum.
Spanning an impressive 2,200 square meters and housed within an 18-meter high space, visitors will traverse through four distinct sections of the exhibition. According to Powerhouse CEO Lisa Havilah, Task Eternal will highlight the intersection of science, technology, and creativity. “Task Eternal is an exhibition about our human ambition to get into the sky,” Ms. Havilah shared with 702 ABC Radio Sydney.
Showcasing Australia’s Space Pioneers
Among the notable displays, visitors will find Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg’s spacesuit, marking its first public appearance. Additionally, the exhibition will feature a prototype of the Roo-ver lunar probe, which is being developed for a mission to the moon in collaboration with the Australian Space Agency, slated for the end of the decade.
Incorporating artistic interpretations, the exhibition will also present works from First Nations and international artists, offering unique perspectives on the vast dimensions of space.
Opening with a Diverse Range of Exhibitions
The space-themed exhibition is just one of five major exhibitions planned for the Powerhouse Parramatta’s opening in late 2026. “We don’t have a date as yet, but it’ll be in that very end of next year,” Ms. Havilah noted. She further explained that all exhibitions at the new site will be temporary, with durations ranging from one to two years, ensuring a continuous influx of new stories and displays.
“We’ll open with five major exhibitions, and so we’re just announcing the first one today, which is really exciting. Over the next year, we’ll share the other projects and exhibitions that are coming up,” Ms. Havilah added.
A New Era for Powerhouse
The opening of Powerhouse Parramatta marks a significant milestone for Australia’s flagship science and technology museum. The museum has been without a physical location since its Ultimo premises closed for extensive renovations in February 2024. The Ultimo museum is anticipated to reopen to the public in 2027, offering a refreshed and modernized experience.
This development follows a broader trend of revitalizing cultural institutions across Australia, aiming to engage new audiences and foster a deeper appreciation for science and technology. The Powerhouse Parramatta’s focus on space exploration aligns with Australia’s growing interest in the field, as evidenced by recent government investments in the Australian Space Agency and related initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As the Powerhouse Parramatta prepares to open its doors, the anticipation is palpable. The museum’s ambitious exhibitions promise to captivate visitors and inspire a new generation of explorers and innovators. With Task Eternal leading the charge, the Powerhouse Parramatta is poised to become a beacon of scientific curiosity and creative expression in the heart of western Sydney.
The move represents a significant step forward in Australia’s cultural landscape, highlighting the nation’s commitment to celebrating and advancing scientific knowledge and exploration. As the countdown to the museum’s opening continues, the excitement surrounding its offerings only grows, promising a bright future for the Powerhouse and its patrons.
