Gainesville Solar Walk – Gainesville, Florida - Atlas Obscura
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Gainesville Solar Walk

Gainesville, Florida

A trek through the solar system here on earth.  

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Gainesville Solar Walk kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
Gainesville Solar Walk kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
Gainesville Solar Walk kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
Gainesville Solar Walk kfs386 (Atlas Obscura User)
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The Gainesville Solar Walk is a four-billion-to-one scale model of the solar system. The entire display spans one mile. Each pillar has info and artifacts about the celestial body it features.

The installation was created in 2002 as a joint project of the City of Gainesville, the Alachua Astronomy Club, artist Elizabeth Indianos, as well as graphic artist Saydi Kaufman. The project cost around $30,000.

Each pillar represents a different planet, Pluto is also included. The planet pillars also feature quotes, stones, and other repurposed objects. Two comets are also present along the walk.

Enhancements are still being discussed, including additional seating, nighttime lighting, an asteroid rock garden, landscaping, and more.

Know Before You Go

The installation itself runs along the road. There is a sidewalk the whole way. There is a park nearby (Westside Park - 3100-3346 NW 8th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32605) where people can park their vehicles and walk over to the installation. 

models space exploration art
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March 11, 2022
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