Aero Memorial

The Aero Memorial is a bronze sphere roughly 6 feet across with Latin inscriptions of constellations and planets carved into its surface, set on a granite base. It stands at the intersection of Benjamin Franklin Parkway and 20th Street near The Franklin Institute science museum.

The Aero Club of Pennsylvania initiated the memorial in 1917 to honor aviators who died in World War I. Its completion and installation took place three decades later in 1950.

The bronze sphere shows classical and Art Deco elements that artist Paul Manship combined, giving it a distinctive place among Philadelphia's public sculptures. The astronomical symbols reflect the connection between flight and celestial navigation that was vital to early pilots.

The memorial is located in Aviator Park, which is easy to reach on foot and sits directly along a major boulevard. Visitors can view it anytime for free and can easily reach it from nearby museums and other attractions.

The sphere displays zodiac signs and other astronomical symbols that point to the important role celestial navigation played for early flight pioneers. These celestial mechanical details give the memorial a scientific dimension that extends beyond its commemorative purpose.

Website: https://associationforpublicart.org/artwork/aero-memorial

GPS coordinates: 39.95810,-75.17203

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:44