Galaxy: Earth Sphere, Spherical fountain sculpture in Kendall Square, Cambridge, United States
Galaxy: Earth Sphere is a metallic globe sculpture with water elements that flow across its spherical surface in moving patterns. The structure uses pumps and channels to continuously guide water in organic movements across the shiny surface.
The artwork was installed in 1989 by artist Joe Davis as part of a city initiative to weave contemporary art into urban development. It came about when Cambridge was connecting its growing technology centers with creative public spaces.
The sculpture demonstrates the link between art and science in this innovation hub, where researchers and artists share the same spaces. Visitors notice how creative thinking and technical work coexist in this neighborhood.
The sculpture sits in a public plaza next to the MIT campus and is freely accessible year-round. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when the reflective surface of the sphere and water movements are most visible.
The original design included specialized pipes that released steam emissions through the structure, giving the fountain an extra visual dimension. This steam component was intended as an artistic element to show how elements transform.
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