The Powerhouse Parramatta is set to open with the largest exhibition space in Australia, focusing on humanity’s ambitious journey into outer space. This groundbreaking exhibition, titled Task Eternal, will showcase cutting-edge technology, actual spaceship components, and the rich history of space exploration. Situated in the heart of western Sydney, the museum promises an immersive experience over its two-year run, offering visitors a chance to explore the cosmos within an 18-metre high, 2,200 square metre space.
Powerhouse CEO Lisa Havilah emphasized the exhibition’s blend 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. Among the highlights is Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg’s spacesuit, marking its first public display, and a prototype of the Roo-ver lunar probe, which is being developed for a future mission with the Australian Space Agency.
Exploring the Cosmos: A Journey Through Task Eternal
The exhibition will guide visitors through four distinct sections, each designed to elevate their understanding of space exploration. In addition to technological marvels, the exhibition will feature creative interpretations from First Nations artists and international contributors, offering a unique perspective on the vast dimensions of space.
This development follows the Powerhouse’s strategic focus on integrating art and science, aiming to inspire a new generation of innovators and explorers. The inclusion of diverse artistic representations underscores the museum’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural dialogue.
Powerhouse Parramatta: A New Era for Australian Museums
The space exhibition is just one of five major exhibitions that will debut when the Parramatta site opens 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 also revealed that all exhibitions at Powerhouse Parramatta will be temporary, ensuring a dynamic and evolving museum experience.
“Some will go for a year, some will go for two years, but there’ll always be new exhibitions and new stories,” Ms. Havilah stated. “We’ll open with five major exhibitions and so we’re just announcing the first one today, which is really exciting, and so over the next year we’ll share the other projects and exhibitions that are coming up.”
Revitalizing Australia’s Science and Technology Heritage
The announcement comes as the Powerhouse, Australia’s flagship science and technology museum, undergoes a significant transformation. The museum has not had an active site since closing its Ultimo premises for major renovations in February 2024. The Ultimo museum is expected to reopen to the public in 2027, promising a revitalized space for science enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, the new Parramatta location represents a bold step forward, aiming to position itself as a leader in the global museum landscape. By focusing on temporary exhibitions, the Powerhouse ensures a fresh and engaging experience for repeat visitors, fostering a deeper connection with science and technology.
“Task Eternal is more than just an exhibition; it’s a testament to humanity’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and exploration,” remarked Ms. Havilah.
As anticipation builds for the opening of Powerhouse Parramatta, the museum is poised to become a beacon of innovation and cultural exchange, drawing visitors from across the globe to explore the wonders of space and beyond.
