‘Galaxy: Earth Sphere’: Kendall Square’s world is back in order

In Cambridge’s Kendall Square, all the world’s a stage thanks to the recently refurbished sculpture and fountain called “Galaxy: Earth Sphere,” a stunning display of functional public art in the plaza where Broadway and Main Street intersect.

Originally built in 1989 by Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor and artist Joe Davis, the science-inspired sculpture was back in service this past July after a dry, 18-month hiatus. Yep, the fountain wasn’t functioning for more than one year after a torrential rainstorm knocked out the underground mechanical system that fueled the 20 streams of water intersecting at the base of the large, Earth-shaped centerpiece.

Surrounding the central fountain is a series of mini-planets, or sphere-like satellites placed on metal platforms, that accent the core sculpture. There’s also a steel beam that shoots out mist which unleashes a dramatic, water-feature display.

The plaza has become the iconic centerpiece of an area that has evolved into the epicenter of Boston’s growing high-tech industry, housing a slew of technology brands such as Akamai, Genzyme, Google, Hubspot, Microsoft and Yahoo.

When visiting “Galaxy: Earth Sphere” plaza in Kendall Square, check out the area’s growing list of notable restaurants, such as Aceituna Café, EVOO and Hungry Mother. Also, the nearby Landmark Kendall Square Cinema is a hotbed of hard-to-find indie flicks and first-run documentaries and is within walking distance from the fountain.

HelloBoston Tip: The “Galaxy: Earth Sphere” fountain changes during Boston's colder months to accommodate the shift in temperature, so make sure to check it out throughout the year, especially during the summer. However, it’s still equally intriguing without the main water feature. There are several benches surrounding the plaza and it’s a great place to eat lunch or a read a book.
 

Kendall Square fountain Galaxy: Earth Sphere sculpture public art