The Moon

In 2027, all of Mannheim will be under a lucky star: From September 19, 2027, to July 2, 2028, the Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen will present the major special exhibition “Der Mond – Himmelskörper und Sehnsuchtsort (The Moon – Celestial Body and Place of Longing)”. Natural and cultural history come together in an immersive and extensive journey through space and time. Spanning over 1,500 square meters, the exhibition explores the Moon as our closest companion in space: The tour begins on the Moon’s surface and examines the human phenomenon of “ Moon travel”—from ancient visions to the legendary Apollo missions. It then explores the Moon’s formation, shape, unique characteristics, and its influence on Earth. In this journey through cultural history, the Moon reveals itself not only as a timekeeper but also as a giver of life, an avenger, a deity, a home to a wide variety of beings, and an inexhaustible source of inspiration for art, literature, and film. Finally, the focus turns to the future: Who owns the Moon, and what does our future with it look like?

ZEPHYR – Raum für Fotografie explores the intersections of art and science, as well as current and future developments in space travel, as part of the exhibition featuring Michael Najjar’s series “outer space.”

Beyond the exhibition, three initiatives bring the fascination of the Moon to life throughout the region: The theme year “Mondsüchtig an Rhein und Neckar (Moon-Struck on the Rhine and Neckar),” the city walk “Mond über Mannheim (Moon over Mannheim),” and a discovery map with excursion tips.

In addition, the Planetarium Mannheim, the world’s first municipal planetarium, is celebrating its 100th anniversary with, among other things, a new program about the Moon.