Light Night 2025: Orbit

Created through a collaboration between young people involved in Inspire Youth Arts (IYA) programmes, Urban Projections and electronic music producer Kirk Spencer; Orbit is an immersive projection experience that transforms the historic architecture of Nottingham Castle into a canvas for reflection and wonder. Inspired by the Overview Effect—the profound shift in perspective astronauts feel when they see Earth from space—the piece explores humanity’s connection to our planet and the universe. 

Projected onto the iconic walls of Nottingham Castle, a landmark steeped in history and cultural significance, Orbit bridges the ancient and the cosmic, the local and the universal. From the explosive birth of the cosmos to humanity’s race into space, stunning visuals and dynamic soundscapes take audiences on a breathtaking journey. Microscopic details—like veins and cells—intertwine with sweeping views of galaxies, revealing the profound links between the smallest and largest scales of existence. 

The piece uses Nottingham Castle not just as a site, but as a symbol—a place where past meets future, where history collides with innovation. Glitches of modern life and environmental crisis give way to nature’s resilience, as the projection blooms into harmony and hope. 

Each evening will open with IYA young musicians performing live drumming and electronic beats at Nottingham Castle bandstand in collaboration with Beatfeet and Kirk Spencer, followed by the immersive projection on the castle walls repeated throughout the evening. 

Orbit invites us to pause, reflect, and see our world—and ourselves—from a new perspective, reminding us of our shared humanity and the beauty of our fragile planet.