music for space travel

The astronaut's playlist: Groovy songs for space travelers

These tunes are out of this world.

• 'Space Oddity' cover by astronaut Chris Hadfield
• 'Drops of Jupiter' by Train
• We're All Made of Stars by Moby
• Just Look Up by Ariana Grande and Kid Cudi
• Space Junk by DEVO
• I Don't Want to Live on the Moon by Sesame Street
• Space Baby by The Tubes
• Spacelab by Kraftwerk
• Fly Me to the Moon by Frank Sinatra in 1954
• The Galaxy Song by Eric Idle/Monty Python
• The Final Countdown by Europe
• 'Starlight' by Muse
• 'Starman' by David Bowie
• 'The Space Race Is Over' by Billy Bragg
• 'Emily' by Joanna Newsom

Honorable Mentions

Before 1970, 2010-present, soundtracks, bibliography.

When you're out exploring the universe, what kind of music should you listen to?

The answer is very personal to the spaceflyer, the culture and perhaps even the decade when they flew — but what is true to say of all eras is there is a heck of a lot of great space music out there. Some even were played in space, like this list of NASA wakeup songs for astronauts , or this playlist from the Voyager mission Golden Record that eventually left our solar system.

It's hard to pick favorites and even more difficult to build a list of suggestions, but we've done our best. In 2011, the Space.com staff came up with a few favorites and now we have updated that top pick list for the 2020s. Below, we also added a huge table with space music over the decades, based on our research.

A couple of cautions here. Our staff is North American and European and as such, we stuck with English-language songs or instrumental songs so as not to make any cultural mistakes. But we'd love to hear your suggestions for international music in the forum.

We also tried to stick with songs that are family-friendly, but we advise that parents should prescreen this list of music before showing these selections to their kids.

Enjoy these selections!

1) Space Oddity cover by astronaut Chris Hadfield (2013)

In 2013, then-International Space Station commander Chris Hadfield released this famous space tune from his home in orbit. 

He received permission from original composer David Bowie to perform the work and created an epic video, thanks to the help of fellow crewmates. 

Note that Hadfield recorded the whole thing during his limited spare time in space, while running the most scientifically productive crew on the station of the era.

2) Drops of Jupiter by Train (2001)

This evocative song could be interpreted as a woman who has just returned from an epic spaceflight, or who has undertaken a spiritual journey that fundamentally changed her viewpoint on the world. 

The poetry in this music is very soulful and representative of the "boy bands" singing of their loves in the early 2000s: "Now that she's back in the atmosphere / With drops of Jupiter in her hair / She acts like summer and walks like rain / Reminds me that there's a time to change."

3) We're All Made of Stars by Moby (2002)

There are so many space songs from Moby over the years that, like Bowie, it's hard to pick a single favorite. But this one sticks out thanks to its focus on unifying humanity through realizing we all ultimately come from the same origin story:

 "People, they come together / People, they fall apart / And no one can stop us now/ 'Cause we are all made of stars."

4) Just Look Up by Ariana Grande and Kid Cudi (2021)

This song comes from one of the most clever space movies of recent history. 

" Don't Look Up " parodies the climate change crisis by showing two astronomers tracking a deadly comet (the scientists are played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence) trying desperately to warn the public and politicians of the impending danger in the age of memes, tweets and TikTok. 

Ariana Grande, who plays a musician in the film, helps deliver this powerful piece at a stadium rally, late in the film.

5) Space Junk by DEVO (1978)

The yellow-suited Akron, Ohio, spudboys of Devo came up with this catchy space junk -themed number back in the 1970s. 

The ever- growing problem of space junk is even more alarming today than back then, as constellations of satellites fly into space on the regular. We've already seen some bad collisions and there are worries the pace of crashes could accelerate.

6) I Don't Want to Live on the Moon by Sesame Street's Ernie (1991)

In this song, Ernie, the beloved Sesame Street character (voiced by Jim Henson), sings plaintively of the many sacrifices he would have to make should he reside on the moon , then decides such a life would be too burdensome to bear. 

While Ernie may not want to live on the moon, NASA sure does. The space agency's Artemis program is currently aiming to return astronauts to the moon around 2025 or so and build a Lunar Gateway station in orbit around Earth's nearest neighbor. It's not clear yet if NASA will offer seats to Sesame Street characters, or any other Muppets, when they make the trip.

7) Space Baby by The Tubes (1975)

From the eponymous debut album by the theatrical S.F. rockers who created "White Punks on Dope" comes this epic mid-70s song of interstellar questing. 

"I dig my atmosphere machine" is an appropriate lyric, though "burning green like a rhomboid sun" suggests a heretofore undiscovered stellar form — or possibly just too much of those Fog City drugs.

8) Spacelab by Kraftwerk (1978)

The German synth-gods Krafterk, who usually sing about the autobahn and robots, took a side trip to space in this electronic ode to a space station on their "Man-Machine" album, likely inspired by then-current Skylab.

Skylab , NASA's first space station, launched in May 1973 and hosted several different crews before NASA ended the program. The space station fell from orbit on July 11, 1979.

9) 'Fly Me to the Moon' by Frank Sinatra in 1954 (and many others since)

In this Frank Sinatra classic, the song's narrator of the well-known tune not only wants to be flown to the moon, but wishes to "play among the stars" and "see what spring is like on Jupiter and Mars."  

After that first verse, though, the space conceit is dropped in favor of love song boilerplate, but we think it counts!

10) The Galaxy Song by Eric Idle/Monty Python (1983)

This hilarious song scarcely needs description — it's an astronomy lesson set to music as recorded by actor Eric Idle and the Monty Python gang in 1983.

This  analysis of the lyrics by Paul Kohlmiller of the San Jose Astronomical Association determines that the facts stated in the lyrics are largely correct. Check it out .

11) The Final Countdown by Europe (1986)

The epic scope and majesty of this song cannot be unheard, in that glorious 1980s mega-pop vibe. 

We also adore the cynicism of people who are leaving our planet for what might be the last time: "We're leavin' together / But still it's farewell / And maybe we'll come back / To Earth, who can tell?"

12) Starlight by Muse (2006)

Speaking of cynical space tunes, we love this one for its spaceflyer's worries about being in space separated from someone they love. "Starlight / I will be chasing a starlight / Until the end of my life / I don't know if it's worth it anymore."

12) Starman by David Bowie (1969)

We know, this song is played a lot on soundtracks, but it can be interpreted concerning everything from Earth astronauts to some sort of aliens. 

"There's a starman waiting in the sky /  He'd like to come and meet us /  But he thinks he'd blow our minds."

More recently, Disney and Pixar used Bowie's "Starman" as the soundtrack for teaser trailers for the new animated film "Lightyear" about the intrepid Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear.

13) The Space Race Is Over by Billy Bragg (1996)

The author of many politically charged songs reflects on his childhood memories of watching the Apollo space missions, but bitterly concludes that "Now that the space race is over / It's been and it's gone, and I'll never get to the moon."

14) Emily by Joanna Newsom (2006)

Delicate-voiced indie/folk darling Joanna Newsom wrote the song “Emily” about her sister, an astronomer. The distinctions between meteors, meteorites and meteoroids are discussed within.

Space.com staffers came up with a huge list of other songs they enjoy, which we've put in order of preference.

• "Reach for the Stars" — will.i.am (recorded in commemoration for the 2012 Curiosity rover landing)
• "Under the Milky Way" — Church
• "Valentina" — Komputer
• "There's a Moon in the Sky (Called the Moon)" — B-52s
• "It's Not" — Aimee Mann
• "I Wish I Was the Moon" — Neko Case
• "Space Travel Is Boring" — Modest Mouse
• "Man on the Moon" — R.E.M.
• "Star Trek: First Contact" theme — Jerry Goldsmith (one Space.com writer played it while walking down the aisle )
• "A Space Boy Dream" — Belle & Sebastian
• "Puttin' People on the Moon" — Drive-By Truckers
• "Teenage Spaceship" — Smog
• "The Space Race" — Destroyer
• "Walking On the Moon" — The Police (Notably, the video for the song was filmed at Kennedy Space Center .)
• "2,000 Light Years from Home” — The Rolling Stones
• "Stellar" — Incubus
• "Space Truckin'" — Deep Purple
• "Black Hole Sun" — Soundgarden
• "We Care" — MGMT
• "The Planets Bend Between Us" — Snow Patrol
• "Galaxies" — Laura Veirs
• "Space Game" —MC Lars
• "Black Star" — Radiohead
• "Mambo Sun" —T.Re
• "Tomorrow's Girls" —Donald Fagen
• "Satellite of Love" — Lou Reed
• "Space Monkey" — Patti Smith
• "Deluxe Men in Space" — Man or Astro-Man?
• "Jupiter" — Gustav Holst 
• "The Blue Danube" — Johann Strauss II (but only for spaceship dockings)
• "Dwarf Nebula Processional March & Dwarf Nebula" — Frank Zappa & The Mothers of Invention
• "Telstar" — The Tornados
• "Space Invader" — The Pretenders
• "Approaching Pavonis Mons by Balloon (Utopia Planitia)" — Flaming Lips

Below is a huge starting list of space music that we have organized by era. This is not meant to be the complete list of space-y tunes, as there are likely millions out there, but based on our research we have found quite a few songs to get you started. For simplicity, we have ordered these songs by approximate year of release. 

Included is a representative list of instrumental movie, TV and game soundtracks from the past few decades that are popular among space fans.

"Astronaut's Playlist: 134 Songs About Stars, Planets, and Space." Spinditty. (2021, Nov. 5.) https://spinditty.com/playlists/astronomy-stars-planets-NASA-songs-playlist

"10 hip-hop songs to take you on a voyage into space." A.D. Carson. The Conversation . (2021, May 26). https://theconversation.com/10-hip-hop-songs-to-take-you-on-a-voyage-into-space-157659

"Music of the Stars: The Best Space Movie Soundtracks." Film School Rejects. (2018, Oct. 18). https://filmschoolrejects.com/best-space-movie-soundtracks/

"Musicspace." HobbySpace. ( 2020.) https://www.hobbyspace.com/Music/music5.html

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Breaking space news, the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more!

• Elizabeth Howell Staff Writer, Spaceflight

Why NASA's Europa Clipper mission to Jupiter's icy moon is such a big deal

Asteroid 'Dinky,' visited by NASA's Lucy spacecraft, birthed its own moon

At long last: Europe's new Ariane 6 rocket set to debut on July 9

Most Popular

• 2 This Week In Space podcast: Episode 114 — Starliners & Starships
• 3 SpaceX wants to build 1 Starship megarocket a day with new Starfactory
• 4 Arrokoth the 'space snowman' probably tastes like sweet soap
• 5 Apollo 8 astronaut Bill Anders, who captured 'Earthrise,' killed in plane crash

30 Songs About Space You Must Listen Too

From the birth of the universe to the mystery of black holes, space has always been a source of endless fascination and inspiration. Musicians across decades and genres have captured these wonders in their songs, filling our playlists with stellar compositions about interstellar journeys and celestial phenomena.

This article delves into the best songs about space, creating a cosmic symphony that transcends time and genre. With a melodic fusion of science, fantasy, and emotion, these tracks transport us into the vast expanse of the universe, inviting us to ponder our existence amidst the grandeur of the cosmos.

best 30 songs about space

1.”space oddity” by david bowie.

Released in 1969, right around the time of the Apollo 11 moon landing, “Space Oddity” is a haunting track about an astronaut named Major Tom who gets lost in space. Bowie perfectly encapsulates the sense of human isolation against the backdrop of the vast cosmos.

Expert Tip: With its rich narrative and the melancholy echoes of Bowie’s voice, this song is not just a musical masterpiece but a timeless ode to space exploration, tinged with the anxiety and fear of the unknown.

2. “Across the Universe” by The Beatles

This track, released in 1970, brilliantly utilizes the concept of space as a metaphor to explore the infinite expanse of human consciousness.

Lyrics like “Images of broken light which dance before me like a million eyes, they call me on and on across the universe” create a dreamy, transcendent soundscape that beautifully illustrates our interconnectedness with the cosmos. The theme of acceptance amid the universe’s unfathomable vastness has resonated with audiences for over half a century.

3. “Rocket Man” by Elton John

A poignant portrayal of the loneliness of space travel, “Rocket Man” was released in 1972. Elton John’s soulful voice conveys the astronaut’s internal conflict as he rockets into space, leaving his family behind. The lyrics speak to the alienation of space travel and the mundane reality of work, even in the unusual role of an astronaut.

It’s a deeply emotional song that shows the human side of the seemingly glamorous life of space exploration.

4. “Starman” by David Bowie

Bowie’s 1972 song, “Starman”, creates an imaginative narrative about a celestial being communicating a message of hope to the youth on Earth. The track is characterized by its catchy chorus and lush arrangements.

It’s a hopeful song that illustrates Bowie’s unique ability to blend pop and glam rock with futuristic themes, creating a cultural impact much like the starman’s radio transmissions.

5. “Supermassive Black Hole” by Muse

Released in 2006, this track combines elements of rock, funk, and electronic music to create a high-energy anthem with an edgy, futuristic feel. The song explores the irresistible pull of a supermassive black hole as a metaphor for a destructive relationship.

Its distinctive fusion of genres, infectious bassline, and Matt Bellamy’s falsetto vocals craft an intense, otherworldly soundscape.

6. “Interstellar Overdrive” by Pink Floyd

This 1967 instrumental is a sonic odyssey that truly embodies its title. The experimental track, characterized by its freeform structure, improvisational guitar work, and avant-garde sound effects, manages to capture the unpredictability and enormity of space.

Its kaleidoscopic sound palette pushes the boundaries of rock music, much like how space exploration pushes the limits of human understanding.

7. “Walking on the Moon” by The Police

This 1979 hit combines reggae-infused rock with Sting’s distinct vocals to exude a feeling of weightlessness, mirroring the sensation of walking on the moon. The metaphor extends to portray the elation of being in love, delivering a sublime musical experience that is both earthly and otherworldly.

8. “Drops of Jupiter” by Train

Released in 2001, this Grammy-winning track uses a cosmic journey as a metaphor for personal growth after a breakup. The lyrics ponder whether the returned loved one’s experiences “back in the atmosphere” have truly changed them or simply made them appreciate their previous life more.

The song’s beautiful piano melodies and catchy chorus have made it an enduring hit.

9. “Champagne Supernova” by Oasis

As an anthemic closing track on the seminal 1995 album “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?”, this song features expansive, layered guitars and dreamlike lyrics. Its metaphoric “supernova” conveys the explosive and fleeting nature of fame, love, and existence, delivering a deeply philosophical message wrapped in a sweeping Britpop package.

10. “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden

Released in 1994, this grunge classic stands out for its surreal lyrics and haunting melody. The enigmatic phrase “black hole sun” serves as a call for oblivion, a cleansing force to wash away the corruption and disillusionment of society. Its striking music video, filled with apocalyptic imagery, makes it one of the most memorable songs about space.

11. “2000 Light Years from Home” by The Rolling Stones

Released in 1967 on their album “Their Satanic Majesties Request”, this song uses the vast distance of space as a metaphor for alienation and isolation. Lyrically, it captures the sense of being out of touch with one’s home and reality, a theme mirrored in its psychedelic instrumental arrangement.

The Stones’ creative venture into the cosmic unknown with this track continues to be appreciated for its explorative spirit in rock and roll.

12. “Space Cowboy” by Steve Miller Band

A track from the band’s 1969 album “Brave New World”, “Space Cowboy” uses the image of a cosmic cowboy as a metaphor for rebellion and non-conformity. It’s an allegory of the band’s own free-spirited lifestyle in the rapidly changing socio-cultural landscape of the late 1960s.

Steve Miller’s easy-going vocals and the bluesy groove give this song a timeless appeal.

13. “Man on the Moon” by R.E.M.

This 1992 release is an affectionate tribute to eccentric comedian Andy Kaufman, with space exploration serving as a metaphor for Kaufman’s own surreal, ground-breaking comedy.

The chorus, “If you believe, they put a man on the moon,” points to the power of belief, mystery, and human potential, themes central to both Kaufman’s comedy and humanity’s quest for space exploration.

14. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra

Though more romance-focused, Sinatra’s 1964 classic uses space as a backdrop for the singer’s declaration of love. Its swing-style melody and Sinatra’s velvety voice lend a timeless appeal to the song. Its numerous inclusions in films and television shows have further cemented its place in popular culture.

15. “Moondance” by Van Morrison

In this 1970 release, Van Morrison romanticizes a moonlit night, using it as a metaphor to express the exhilaration and magic of love. His expressive vocals, combined with a vibrant jazz-inspired arrangement, create an enchanting musical experience. The moon, in this context, acts as an ageless symbol of romance and mystique.

16. “Subterranean Homesick Alien” by Radiohead

Off their seminal 1997 album “OK Computer”, this track reflects on alien life forms looking at humans as the “weird” ones. Its ethereal soundscape, combined with Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals, creates a feeling of isolation and yearning for a different perspective a life beyond the mundanity of earthbound existence.

17. “Countdown” by Rush

Released in 1982, “Countdown” is an ode to the space shuttle launch that the band members witnessed at Cape Canaveral. The lyrics encapsulate the awe-inspiring spectacle of the launch and the mix of anticipation and trepidation that accompanies any journey into the unknown.

Expert Tip: Fueled by Rush’s signature complex rhythms and intricate musicianship, this track offers a genuine sense of adventure.

18. “Exogenesis: Symphony” by Muse

This three-part symphony from Muse’s 2009 album “The Resistance” is a grand musical exploration of humanity’s future both its potential for self-destruction and its capacity to start anew in the cosmos. The lush, orchestral arrangements evoke the majesty and mystery of space, whilst the lyrics speak to the human condition in the face of such vast potential.

19. “Astronomy Domine” by Pink Floyd

The opening track on their debut album “The Piper at the Gates of Dawn”, this 1967 song is a psychedelic journey to outer space. With its disorienting, spacey sounds and lyrics about celestial bodies, it creates a cosmic atmosphere that showcases the band’s early, experimental side.

20. “Galaxies” by Owl City

A track from the 2011 album “All Things Bright and Beautiful”, “Galaxies” is a synth-pop hymn that uses cosmic imagery to deal with a personal loss. The lyrics reference the vastness of space to underscore the depth of human sorrow and faith. Its upbeat electronic soundscape contrasts with the poignant lyrics, creating a complex emotional texture.

21. “Life on Mars?” by David Bowie

Released in 1971, this song is one of Bowie’s signature tracks. It questions the sense of reality, featuring a disillusioned girl escaping into a cinema screen, seeking refuge in the idea of life on Mars. The song’s powerful lyrics and dramatic melody create a sense of longing for a reality beyond the everyday mundane.

22. “Cosmic Love” by Florence and the Machine

In this 2009 track, cosmic imagery represents a blinding love lost. Florence Welch’s powerful vocals, backed by harp and pounding drums, evoke an emotional space where love and loss are as immense and overwhelming as the cosmos. The lyrics are poetic and rich, framing a heartbreak within the vastness of the universe.

23. “Saturn” by Sleeping At Last

A part of the “Space” EP released in 2014, “Saturn” is a stunning orchestral-indie rock track about time, aging, and life’s fleeting nature. The lyrics reflect on the insignificance and the incredible beauty of life against the backdrop of the cosmos. Its hauntingly beautiful music and poignant words make it a memorable space-themed track.

24. “The Final Countdown” by Europe

This 1986 classic rock song, known for its unforgettable synth riff, is a grandiose piece about leaving the Earth for Venus. It’s a grand metaphor for any significant change or departure. Its high-energy performance and apocalyptic lyrics have made it an enduring cultural phenomenon.

25. “Under The Milky Way” by The Church

This 1988 song is a moody, atmospheric rock track named after our galaxy, the Milky Way. The ethereal guitars and melancholic lyrics create a sense of longing and loneliness, encapsulating a late-night yearning beneath the expanse of the starry sky.

26. “Spaceman” by The Killers

Released in 2008, “Spaceman” deals with themes of alienation, with its narrative inspired by David Bowie’s “Space Oddity”. The catchy, anthemic sound of the track, juxtaposed with the lyric’s darker undertones, makes for an intriguing listen, demonstrating the band’s ability to fuse indie rock with deep, thought-provoking themes.

27. “Venus” by Frankie Avalon

This 1959 hit transforms Venus, the second planet in our solar system, into the Roman goddess of love. Avalon croons a plea to Venus to send him a girl to love, showcasing the timeless human tendency to look to the heavens for answers to earthly problems.

28. “Space” by Prince

From the 1994 album “Come”, “Space” is a slow-burning funk ballad where space is a metaphor for an empty, cold bed. Prince’s signature falsetto, combined with sensual lyrics, create a song that’s more about earthly desires than cosmic explorations but remains a unique take on the space theme.

29. “Stars” by Switchfoot

This 2005 alternative rock track contemplates humanity’s place in the universe, using stars as a metaphor for the constants that guide our lives. The powerful lyrics, paired with the band’s dynamic sound, create an inspiring message about finding your path in the grand scheme of the universe.

30. “AstroMan” by Jimi Hendrix

This 1971 track sees Hendrix take on the role of a cosmic superhero, leaving the troubles of Earth behind to find peace among the stars. The song’s spacey guitar effects, tight rhythm section, and Hendrix’s imaginative lyrics make for a thrilling ride into the cosmos.

What is the song about a man going to space?

One of the most iconic songs about a man going to space is David Bowie’s “Space Oddity.” Released in 1969, this song tells the story of Major Tom, an astronaut who loses contact with Ground Control and becomes adrift in space. Bowie uses this narrative to explore feelings of isolation and the vast, possibly infinite unknown of the universe.

“Space Oddity” was a product of the era’s fascination with space travel and exploration, given it was released just days before the Apollo 11 moon landing. The song’s combination of otherworldly instrumentals, existential lyrics, and Bowie’s distinctive voice created an atmospheric piece that still resonates with audiences today.

It is a poignant reminder of the human experience within the grandeur of the cosmos, exploring both the excitement and existential dread that can accompany journeys into the unknown.

What music is associated with space?

Space themes have been a frequent muse for various genres of music, including classical, rock, pop, electronic, and more. Classical pieces like Gustav Holst’s “The Planets” suite or Richard Strauss’s “Also Sprach Zarathustra” (popularized by Stanley Kubrick’s film “2001: A Space Odyssey”) have drawn inspiration from celestial bodies and cosmic mythology.

In rock and pop, artists like David Bowie, Elton John, and Pink Floyd have used space as a backdrop to explore themes of isolation, existentialism, and wonder.

Electronic and ambient music genres, including artists like Brian Eno and Jean-Michel Jarre, often use synth-heavy compositions to create aural soundscapes evocative of the ethereal, vast nature of space. More recently, sci-fi and space themes have become popular in progressive metal and synth-wave genres.

What song was used to wake up astronauts?

NASA has a tradition of waking up astronauts with a specially chosen track each day during space missions, a practice that started with the Gemini program. The selections, known as “wake-up calls,” varied widely from classical music to rock, pop, country, and even movie themes.

Quick Fact: One of the most memorable wake-up calls was a performance of “Also Sprach Zarathustra” by the Houston Symphony Orchestra, which used to wake the Apollo 11 astronauts on their way to the Moon.

Other popular choices have included The Beatles’ “Good Day Sunshine” during the Apollo 16 mission and Elton John’s “Rocket Man” used in a Space Shuttle mission.

What was the first song listened to in space?

The first song ever played in space was “Jingle Bells,” performed on a harmonica accompanied by small bells by the crew of Gemini 6 in December 1965.

As a prank, astronauts Wally Schirra and Thomas Stafford reported seeing a “UFO” before playing the Christmas song, causing some momentary concern at NASA Mission Control before they realized it was a holiday-themed joke. The harmonica and bells used in the performance are considered the first musical instruments played in space.

The first recorded song broadcast in space was The Beatles’ “Across the Universe,” transmitted by NASA towards the North Star, Polaris, in 2008 as part of the agency’s 50th-anniversary celebrations.

Who was the first band to perform live in space?

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield made history as the first person to perform a live song in space. His cover of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity,” recorded on the International Space Station (ISS) and shared with Earth via YouTube, is now legendary.

However, the first band to perform live in space was Bandella, a folk band made up of astronauts and space engineers. Aboard the ISS, they broadcast their performance live back to Earth.

What is the “space age pop” genre?

“Space age pop” is a subgenre of popular music that emerged during the space race era of the 1950s and 60s. It incorporated diverse elements of big band jazz, classical music, and electronic sounds to create a futuristic atmosphere.

Often instrumental, space-age pop composers were influenced by the technological innovations of the time, and their music frequently contained space exploration or science fiction themes.

What’s a notable opera that’s related to space?

A notable opera related to space is Karl-Birger Blomdahl’s “Aniara”. Premiered in 1959, it’s based on Harry Martinson’s epic poem about a spaceship, named Aniara, carrying refugees from a ruined Earth to Mars. When knocked off course, the ship becomes lost in space, and the opera explores the subsequent existential crisis among the passengers.

The avant-garde score uses electronic music, combining orchestral and vocal elements, to underscore the cosmic and human drama.

Why do artists use space as a metaphor in their music?

Artists often use space as a metaphor in their music because of its vast, mysterious, and seemingly infinite nature. It symbolizes the unknown, the adventurous, and the unreachable. Themes of isolation, existentialism, exploration, and wonder are easily drawn from it.

Space, as a metaphor, can make these abstract themes more tangible, offering a cosmic perspective on human emotions and experiences.

Is there any genre of music born from the space exploration era?

The era of space exploration had a significant influence on the evolution of music, leading to the development of the “space rock” genre. This genre emerged in the late 1960s and 70s, largely inspired by the excitement of the space race.

It is characterized by extended instrumentals, experimental structures, and lyrics often related to space travel and science fiction. Bands like Pink Floyd, Hawkwind, and later, Spiritualized, have been key players in this genre.

What was the first music video shot in space?

The first music video shot in space was Chris Hadfield’s cover of “Space Oddity” by David Bowie. Hadfield, a Canadian astronaut and the commander of Expedition 35 on the International Space Station recorded his version of the song while on the ISS.

The resulting video, featuring Hadfield floating in zero gravity while singing and playing the guitar, was edited on Earth and has since become a viral sensation.

In conclusion, the fascination with the cosmos has been a recurring theme in music throughout history. Whether it’s through the metaphorical use of celestial bodies, the yearning for otherworldly adventures, or the awe of the universe’s expansive mystery, the cosmos continues to inspire musicians across genres.

As we venture further into space and uncover more of its secrets, it’s exciting to imagine how these revelations might influence the music of the future. The sky is not the limit when it comes to the intersection of music and space rather, it’s just the beginning.

About Rencel Leyran

Playthetunes.

All your music needs, wrapped up in one website. PlayTheTunes is the worlds leading music & instrument source.

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 - PlayTheTunes

All Rights Reserved

Amazon Associates Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

× Do you know these Musicians from their Movies?

22 Best Songs About Space, Stars and the Universe

Few things can top gazing up at the night sky. There’s something magical about looking at the stars and the planets in the vast expanse of space . All that’s missing is a playlist to set the mood. Here are the ten best songs any space-lover can rock out to while hoping for a shooting star to make a wish on.

“Fly Me to the Moon” – Frank Sinatra

Old Blue Eyes himself wrote what is probably the ultimate space song. In the 1954 hit, he sings all about flying to the moon , playing among the stars, and seeing springtime on Jupiter and Mars with his beau. There are also plenty of cover versions of the song to enjoy.

“Rocket Man” – Elton John

Legend has it Elton John’s classic hit was inspired by a shooting star. The 1972 song takes the idea of being an astronaut and treats it like any other nine-to-five job.

Some speculated “Rocket Man” was a metaphor for drug use based on the line “I’m gonna be high as a kite by then”. In fact, it was inspired by the book The Illustrated Man written by Ray Badbury, as Bernie Taupin (lyricist) clarified. In a story within it, “The Rocket Man”, astronauts of the future would become regular daily vocations.

In this song the protagonist sings about being lonely out in space and not really understanding how all the science works. This one, too, has plenty of cover versions.

“Space Murder” – Death

Murder by Death is constantly pushing boundaries. The Other Shore is a space opera about a relationship dying in tandem with a planet, one venturing out to find a new world, the other staying behind in the husk of the old world .

It’s overwhelmingly ambitious and hugely impressive in how it functions both as a complete piece and as individual songs. In our interview with Adam Turla he discussed the inspiration, “I basically have been toying with doing a space opera for a long time. I started writing one when I was a teenager. The story kind of unfolded line by line honestly, and song by song.”

“Space Cowboy” – Steve Miller Band

Not completely dissimilar to Rocket Man, the 1969 hit Space Cowboy is all about…well, a space cowboy. But unlike Elton John, the singer in this song is all about his life in space and exploring the outer realms of the galaxy. A word of caution: many mistake another Steve Miller Band Song, The Joker, for Space Cowboy.

“Space Oddity” – David Bowie

Bowie released Space Oddity just before the Apollo 11 mission launched and landed a man on the moon for the first time. It quickly became one of his trademark songs. The singer in the song is an astronaut who runs into trouble on his mission and is left floating high above the Earth.

“Spaceman” – The Killers

Anybody who likes a good alien intrigue will appreciate this song. It’s about a man who’s taken from his bed by aliens and forced to undergo a series of procedures. The titular spaceman tries to convince the man that the whole thing never really happened, but he knows better. The song debuted in 2008 and quickly became a hit.

“Andromeda” – Paul Weller

This 2010 song is a little on the short side, but it still packs quite a punch. It’s all about the Andromeda galaxy, the closest major galaxy to the Milky Way. The song centers around a space traveler who leaves Andromeda bound for another world, knowing full well he might not make it.

“Life on the Moon” – David Cook

Astronomy enthusiasts might find the idea of life on the moon appealing, but the singer in American Idol winner David Cook’s song isn’t a fan. He sings about being lonely and missing his lover back on Earth. Apparently, space colonization isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

“Walking on the Moon” – Cas Haley

On the other hand, the singer in this song has his partner right by his side, so it makes walking on the moon a joy. Haley’s 2008 version is a re-make of the hit by The Police, written by the one and only Sting.

“Heightened Sensitivity” – Anakim

DJ Anakim describes his music as an accompaniment for interstellar travel with the goal to take you into another world, even for a moment, but keep you dancing. In our interview with Anakim, he describes his fascination with space travel:

“While I do pay attention to new developments within the science of astronomy, my music relies much more on the emotive. At the center of it all, I try to score mini-movies within my head that happen to fit into a dance floor setting.

For example, say there’s some distant world in another galaxy that has a hostile environment filled with unknown hostile beings. What would the soundtrack to flying into that world sound like to me?”

“Starlight” – Muse

Continuing the theme, this 2006 alt-rock song is about a man who sings about a rocket ship taking him away from his loved ones. But, even across vast spans of space, he won’t give up on the memory of his lover. This song was also a hit when it was released.

“Space Truckin'” – Deep Purple

In this 1972 song, the singer imagines what it might be like to roam the galaxy and hanging out with aliens on other planets. This one is sure to inspire the imagination of anyone who’s ever dreamed of flying among the stars.

Of course, this is just a handful of songs all about space and space travel. There are countless songs out there that will speak to space-lovers and planet enthusiasts.

“We Are All Made Of Stars” – Moby

“We Are All Made Of Stars” was written and recorded by American songwriter and electronica musician Moby. The song was the lead single from his sixth disc, titled “18.” It hit stores on April 1, 2002. The single hit number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and was a top-10 tune in several European nations. The track was later included on the 2008 release “Songs for Tibet.”

“Black Hole Sun” – Soundgarden

This song was recorded by the American rock group known as Soundgarden. It was written by band frontman Chris Cornell. Released in 1994, it was the third single off the group’s fourth album titled “Superunknown.” The song climbed to the top of the well-known Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, camping out there for seven weeks in the number one slot. Arguably one of the group’s most recognizable and popular songs, it hit number one in Iceland.

“Supersonic Rocket Ship” – The Kinks

Next on the list of songs about space, stars, and the universe is “Supersonic Rocket Ship” by the Brit rock band, The Kinks. Written by lead singer Ray Davies, it was originally released as a single on May 5, 1972, in the UK, and in September of 1972 in the US. The single was backed with the tune “You Don’t Know My Name” which was written by lead guitarist Dave Davies.

“There’s A Star For Everyone” – Aretha Franklin

“There’s A Star For Everyone” was recorded by American singer, songwriter, and pianist Aretha Franklin. The song was co-written by Allee Willis, David Lasley, and Don Yowell. It was included on her 27th studio album titled “Love All the Hurt Away.” This was her second Arista Records label release, and it hit the record racks on August 20, 1981.

“Mr. Spaceman” – The Byrds

This one was recorded by the US rock group, the Byrds. It first appeared as the third cut on the band’s 1966 LP, “Fifth Dimension.” It was written by frontman Jim McGuinn. The single peaked at number 36 on the famous Billboard Hot 100 chart but did nothing in the UK. Music journalists coined the label “space-rock” to describe the music even though the term would later be used to describe another genre completely.

“Space Station #5” – Montrose

This song is the third cut on “Montrose”, the premiere platter of the American hard rock band of the same name. It was released on the Warner Bros. label in October of 1973. The song was co-written by lead guitarist Ronnie Montrose and lead singer, Sammy Hagar. It was Hagar’s official recording debut as a lead singer and he went on to become famous as a solo act and with Van Halen.

“Rocket” – Def Leppard

“Rocket” was written and recorded by the English rock group Def Leppard. It first appeared on the band’s 1987 platter “Hysteria.” It was the seventh and last US single, dropping in January of 1989. The song broke into the well-known US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart too. With a running time of 6:34, the single release was significantly edited for radio airplay.

“Ashes To Ashes” – David Bowie

This song was written and recorded by the late English singer-songwriter David Bowie. It was the first single off his 1980 disc “Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)” and became his second number-one single in the UK. The song’s lyrics famously revisit Bowie’s legendary character, Major Tom, from his 1969 classic “Space Oddity.” Bowie would reference the astronaut again in his 1995 number “Hallo Spaceboy” and yet once more in his 2015 tune “Blackstar.”

“Space Junk” – Devo

“Space Junk” is a song by the American new wave act Devo. The song was co-written by Gerald Casale and Bob Mothersbaugh. It’s the fourth track from their debut disc titled “Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!” It hit the record stores in August of 1978 on the Warner Bros. label and was produced by English musician and composer Brian Eno. It hit number 78 in the US and 12 in the UK.

“30th Century Man” – The Jigsaw Seen

Our final entry in this list of songs about space, stars, and the universe is “30th Century Man.” This is a cover cut by the Los Angeles, California-based alt-pop band The Jigsaw Seen. The song was originally recorded by the English alternative band, Catherine Wheel.

The Jigsaw Seen released their version of the song on their 2002 EP titled “30 Century Man.” It also appears on their 2003 album named “Songs Mama Used to Sing.” The is perhaps best known for its inclusion in the animated feature “Futurama: Bender’s Big Score.”

David Schwartz

Born and raised in Austin, David is a dedicated writer and avid fragrance lover. When he's not trying out perfumes, he enjoys traveling and exploring new restaurants.

Astronaut Songs: Music & Stories From Space

Astronaut Day! This list was curated by NASA Astronauts Garrett Reisman & Mike Massimino from songs they listened to while working on the USA Space Shuttle

32 Songs, 2 hours, 17 minutes

More By Topsify Global

Featured artists, bay city rollers, norman greenbaum, village people, david bowie, fiona apple, nelly furtado, hunter hayes, africa, middle east, and india.

• Côte d’Ivoire
• Congo, The Democratic Republic Of The
• Guinea-Bissau
• Niger (English)
• Congo, Republic of
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• Tanzania, United Republic Of
• Turkmenistan
• United Arab Emirates

Asia Pacific

• Indonesia (English)
• Lao People's Democratic Republic
• Malaysia (English)
• Micronesia, Federated States of
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Solomon Islands
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• France (Français)
• Deutschland
• Luxembourg (English)
• Moldova, Republic Of
• North Macedonia
• Portugal (Português)
• Türkiye (English)
• United Kingdom

Latin America and the Caribbean

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina (Español)
• Bolivia (Español)
• Virgin Islands, British
• Cayman Islands
• Chile (Español)
• Colombia (Español)
• Costa Rica (Español)
• República Dominicana
• Ecuador (Español)
• El Salvador (Español)
• Guatemala (Español)
• Honduras (Español)
• Nicaragua (Español)
• Paraguay (Español)
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• St. Vincent and The Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos
• Uruguay (English)
• Venezuela (Español)

The United States and Canada

• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• United States
• Estados Unidos (Español México)
• الولايات المتحدة
• États-Unis (Français France)
• Estados Unidos (Português Brasil)
• 美國 (繁體中文台灣)

the future of music

Suggestions

57 best songs about space & the universe.

Exploring the vast expanse of the cosmos through music, I’ve put together a captivating collection of songs about space and the universe.

This article is your gateway to melodies that transcend earthly boundaries, offering a unique perspective on the mysteries of the cosmos.

Table of Contents

Top songs about space & the universe

• “Space Oddity” by David Bowie
• “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
• “Rocket Man” by Elton John
• “Space Truckin” by Deep Purple
• “Spaceman” by The Killers
• “Space” by Murder by Death
• “The Space Program” by A Tribe Called Quest
• “Starlight” by Muse
• “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
• “Space Cowboy” by The Steve Miller Band

1. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie

“Major Tom, are you able to hear me?”

It’s possible that this song is the most well-known of all the space songs, yet it’s really more of a song about being lonely and isolated than it is about space.

In the song, Major Tom chooses to disengage from his ship and just drift away into the void of space.

The fact that it was published around the time of the moon landing undoubtedly contributed to the song’s ascent to cult status.

It did not hinder Bowie’s career in any way, shape, or form. Soon after that, he presented us with his Ziggy Stardust alter persona, and the world of music was never quite the same again.

Another excellent tune from later in Bowies’ career is titled “Dancing Out in Space” (from The Next Day).

2. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra

Who could ever forget such a timeless classic? When Frank Sinatra performs a song about falling in love while stargazing and floating through space, his silky smooth voice causes everyone’s heart to skip a beat.

How very lovely would it be to be traveling across space when you get that old-school euphoric feeling?

Kaye Ballard was the original singer of the song, and it was first named “In Other Words.”

3. “Rocket Man” by Elton John

Legend has it that a falling star served as the creative impetus behind Elton John’s timeless song .

This song from 1972 takes the concept of working as an astronaut and portrays it as being no different from any other nine-to-five job.

The main character talks about being alone in space and not fully comprehending how all of the science works in the song. Even this one has a plethora of different cover versions.

4. “Space Truckin” by Deep Purple

“Well, we had a great deal of luck on Venus, and on Mars we never lacked for a good time.”

The album Machine Head by Deep Purple begins with a song titled “Highway Star” which is about automobiles and ends with a song that is about traveling into space.

Tragically, astronaut Kalpana Chawla brought a copy of the CD with her onto the doomed Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003. The shuttle was involved in a catastrophic accident.

Therefore, guitarist Steve Morse paid tribute to her and the rest of the band by penning the song “Contact Lost,” which can be found on the band’s album titled “Bananas.”

5. “Spaceman” by The Killers

We’ve all heard some pretty wild tales of humans being kidnapped by aliens and used as test subjects for their research.

Is it possible that one of the band members really went through something similar and was inspired to write a song about it? Who could say?

A guy is dragged from his bed and kidnapped by extraterrestrial beings, who then attempt to convince him that everything he perceives is only a product of his own imagination. It would be quite difficult to put such a distressing event out of one’s mind.

This song was a smash hit on the radio and it was also utilized as the theme music for the trailer for the animated film Planet 51.

The lead singer of the band, Brandon Flowers, has said that he was attempting to write a song that would combine “ Space Oddity ” with “Rocket Man.” I suppose it seems sensible for songs about space to draw inspiration from one another.

6. “Space” by Murder by Death

Murder by Death is always pushing the limits of what’s possible.

During a conversation with Adam Turla, he explained the source of his creativity as follows:

“I basically have been toying with the idea of doing a space opera for a long time. When I was a teenager, I embarked on the process of creating one. The narrative developed in a natural way, more or less song after song, and line by line.”

7. “The Space Program” by A Tribe Called Quest

“It’s going to hit us with a vengeance. We’ve got to get our s*** together.”

The first song to be released from the highly anticipated album We Got It from Here… Thank You 4 Your Service album was released in 2016.

According to NPR, the lyrics illustrate a version of the United States that is “hostile to African-Americans, Mexicans, Muslims, gays, and the poor.”

The band member Phife Dawg, who tragically died suddenly after the production of this song, is honored with a moving tribute in the form of a beautiful and space-themed music video (his lyrical interplay with Q-Tip was the backbone of the group).

The outstanding music video includes guest appearances from a number of well-known musicians, including Pharrell Williams, Anderson Paak, Erykah Badu, and many more.

8. “Starlight” by Muse

This alternative rock song was released in 2006, and its main character imagines that he is being taken away by a spacecraft from all of the people he knows and loves.

Even if she is far away and separated by “black holes and revelations,” he will never be able to forget the one and only lady he has ever loved.

9. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Despite what the majority of people believe, this band does not see the moon as a lovely and illuminating beacon in our life.

The song, which is bouncy and pleasant, doesn’t give the impression that it’s about anything troubling at all.

John Fogerty created the song on purpose using this structure, but he refused to explain why he did it.

10. “Space Cowboy” by The Steve Miller Band

In contrast to Elton John, the vocalist in this song is preoccupied with his existence in space and venturing into the farthest regions of the cosmos.

A word of caution: Space Cowboy is often confused with another song by the Steve Miller Band called “The Joker.”

11. “All The Stars” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA

“All The Stars” is a lead single from the “Black Panther: The Album”, a soundtrack for the 2018 Marvel movie.

The song was nominated for the Oscars for Best Original song, but lost to “Shallow” from “A Star Is Born”.

Either way, the song is captivating and sentimental, and it talks about reaching for your dreams.

12. “We Are All Made Of Stars” by Moby

“We Are All Made Of Stars” is a song about stars and people. It’s also about hope; in one of the interviews, Moby said that he wrote the song in New York after the September 11 attacks. It was his way of expressing a sense of hopefulness.

But the lyrics are generally inspired by the scientific principle that all matter in the universe is made up of stardust. And that’s somehow a very comforting notion.

13. “A Sky Full Of Stars” by Coldplay

Another popular song about stars is “A Sky Full Of Stars” released on Coldplay’s album “Ghost Stories” in 2014.

The song is incredibly uplifting and lively. And as Chris Martin said in one of the interviews, it represents “the release after you’ve climbed the mountain – after you’ve done anything challenging.”

14. “Space Song” by Beach House

Just like most of Beach House’s songs, “Space Song” is relaxing and dreamy. It will make you feel like you’re floating in space.

The band released it on their studio album “Depression Cherry” in 2015.

15. “Out Of Space” by Prodigy

Another song about space with a slightly different atmosphere than the previous one is “Out Of Space” by Prodigy.

The song is featured on Prodigy’s 1992 debut album “Experience” and it was one of the band’s signature songs.

It’s a captivating, catchy song with a sing-along verse (not so typical for their music) and a trippy music video (that’s more typical).

Either way, it’s a fantastic tune that will probably keep reminding people of this iconic band for many years to come.

16. “Walking On The Moon” by The Police

How about taking a nice little walk on the moon?

This is arguably one of the most iconic songs about the moon. It was released in 1979, on The Police’s album “Reggatta de Blanc”.

However, this is actually a typical love song, and walking on the moon presumably represents the feeling of being infatuated with someone.

17. “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young

Another iconic moon song is “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young.

The song is very simple and straightforward: it’s about dancing with someone you love under the light of the moon.

The melody of the song also seems rather simple, but it’s incredibly beautiful and memorable – it just doesn’t get old.

18. “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden

“Black Hole Sun” was one of Chris Cornell’s most popular songs. And it’s a brilliant one too.

The song was released on Soundgarden’s fourth studio album “Superunknown” in 1994. Cornell supposedly wrote it in his car while he was driving home one night.

Besides being a chart-topping hit, “Black Hole Sun” received the award for Best Hard Rock Performance at the 1995 Grammy Awards.

19. “Mr. Spaceman” by The Byrds

“Mr. Spaceman” was released in 1966, on The Byrds’ album “Fifth Dimension”. And back then, the song was described as ‘space rock’.

Lyrically, “Mr. Spaceman” really is a song about space. It talks about an encounter with extraterrestrial life, with a twist that the protagonist asks the aliens to take him with them.

Well, if you get a chance to take a ride on a nice, little spaceship, you have to take it.

20. “2000 Years From Home” by The Rolling Stones

Speaking of space rock, we can’t skip this unusual, trippy tune by The Rolling Stones.

It’s unusual because the beginning of the song almost sounds like Pink Floyd, but it progresses to an interesting rock song about the universe and, well, all the other things that Mick Jagger and Keith Richards came up with at the time.

The song was first released on the band’s album “Their Satanic Majesties Request” in 1967.

21. “Space Monkey” by Patti Smith

Released on Patti Smith’s 1978 album “Easter”, “Space Monkey” delivers a different perspective on the concept of space in music.

The song sounds more fun than many other Patti Smith songs, so its title is somewhat suitable.

22. “Dancing In The Moonlight” by Toploader

And if you’re looking for a danceable song about space, let us remind you of this popular hit.

Toploader’s “Dancing In The Moonlight” is an ultimate feel-good song that just doesn’t get old.

The song was actually written by musician Sherman Kelly in 1969, and the English band Toploader recorded the famous cover in 1999.

23. “Supersonic Rocket Ship” by The Kinks

“Supersonic Rocket Ship” by The Kinks is a true space jam. We can easily imagine ourselves floating in space while listening to this tune…

The song was also featured in the 2019 film “Avengers: Endgame”, and that’s probably when a lot of younger people heard it for the first time.

24. “Goodnight Moon” by Shivaree

Shivaree was an Americana band formed in 1997. They are best known for their track “Goodnight Moon”.

It’s a smooth, catchy tune featured in several movies and TV shows including “The Silver Linings Playbook”, “The Kill Bill Vol2”, and “Dawson’s Creek”.

25. “Space Baby” by The Tubes

“Space Baby” by the San Francisco-based band The Tubes is definitely a song that deserves more attention.

It could very well be categorized as space rock, or at least be on the same playlist as The Kinks’, David Bowie’s, and The Rolling Stones’ songs we mentioned today.

26. “Space Station #5” by Montrose

The vocalist of this song Sammy Hagar is better known as a one-time vocalist for Van Halen. Nevertheless, his voice fits this space-themed rock song perfectly.

And as Hagar said in one of the interviews: “You know how big the universe is? It’s freakin’ huge! If we’re really the only ones out there, that’s scarier to me than thinking there are aliens.”

27. “Space Jam” by Quad City DJs

This is probably one of the most iconic songs about space from the 90s. It was written for the 1996 American animated sports comedy film “Space Jam”.

The film stars Michael Jordan as a fictional version of himself in a combination with Looney Tunes characters.

The movie received mixed reviews, but despite that, it became the highest-grossing basketball film of all time.

28. “Space Bound” by Eminem

Eminem released “Space Bound” on his studio album “Recovery” in 2011, and it’s definitely one of the most sentimental songs on the album.

One of the interpretations of the song and the video explain that Eminem was trying to portray the reality of relationships and the fact that even the strongest of relationships can eventually fall apart.

29. “Airplanes” by B.o.B. and Hayley Williams

Can we pretend that airplanes in the night sky are like shooting stars?

This popular 2010 tune by B.o.B. and Paramore’s Hayley Williams always sounds fresh and nostalgic at the same time.

“Airplanes” peaked at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100, and it was also nominated for a Grammy.  

30. “Across The Universe” by Rufus Wainwright

Rufus Wainwright released this beautiful, familiar ballad about the universe in 2002. It’s a cover of The Beatles’ tune released on their album “No One’s Gonna Change Our World”.

There are many more covers of this song, and each one adds something special to it. It’s simply a timeless song with an iconic melody that everyone seems to know and love.

31. “Looking For Astronauts” by The National

In this mellow indie rock tune, The National’s Matt Berninger claims that we are all here looking for our astronaut. The astronaut is presumably our soulmate – and perhaps someone who is a bit too perfect.

Either way, it’s one of the songs about astronauts that can fulfill your daydreaming moments.

32. “Cosmic Love” by Florence and The Machine

This maybe isn’t a typical song about space, but it’s a song about a special kind of love. A cosmic love.

In this 2009 indie hit, Florence Welch sings about a woman who has fallen passionately in love when she wasn’t expecting it.

She also sings about the stars and the moon, and everything that will make you feel like you can fly away across the universe.

33. “Space Is The Place” by Sun Ra

“Space Is The Place” is a long and captivating jazzy tune about the vastness of space. At least that’s how it sounds.  

It’s also the opening title of the SF movie of the same name made in 1972. The film is about the space age prophet who lands his spaceship in Oakland after being presumed lost in space.

34. “Man On The Moon” by R.E.M.

Another timeless song about space and the moon is R.E.M.’s “Man On The Moon”.

The song is a tribute to the comedian and performer Andy Kaufman. And the song’s title and chorus refer to the Moon landing conspiracy theories which is an allusion to the rumor of Kaufman’s faked death.

Either way, it’s one of the band’s signature songs and an absolute space-themed classic.

35. “A Shining Star” by Nneka

It’s time for a hidden gem (and a shining star) among the best songs about space and stars.

Nneka is a talented Nigerian singer and songwriter, and “A Shining Star” is a soulful R&B tune she released in 2011.

This is definitely music that deserves more attention. And it’s a nice addition to your space playlist.

36. “Astronaut (Something About Your Love)” by Mansionair

Another great tune for your astronaut playlist is this captivating track by the Australian indie trio Mansionair.

The song is captivating, catchy, and somewhat nostalgic. And the video of an astronaut floating in a spaceship somehow fits the atmosphere of the song perfectly.

37. “Two Planets” by Bat For Lashes

Another great indie tune that you might not be familiar with is “Two Planets” by the Pakistani British singer/songwriter known as Bat For Lashes.

The song really sounds like it’s about space and the universe, so it’s a perfect addition to our list.

Sometimes it’s all about the vibes in a particular song, and the song’s title and the lyrics only add up to the whole atmosphere.

38. “Sail To The Moon” by Radiohead

Well, this song definitely has a suitable atmosphere. It’s dreamy and melancholic, and it will take your mind somewhere else – perhaps you’ll sail to the moon.

But since we’re talking about Radiohead, “Sail To The Moon” is probably not a song about space, moonbeams, and shooting stars, although you can hear all of that in the lyrics.

39. “Star Trek: The Next Generation”, Star Trek OST

What would a list of songs about space be without a couple of soundtracks?

And Star Trek is definitely one of the best TV shows about space ever made. It’s not only about starships and the exploration of space but also about different cultures and humanity.

And this song immediately transforms us to captain Picard’s U.S. Starship Enterprise. So, turn the volume up, and engage!

40. “The Expanse Main Title” by The Expanse OST

One of the TV shows about space that made a huge success recently is The Expanse.

And there’s something special about the show’s main title song made by the Canadian composer Clinton Shorter.  

The song is captivating and powerful, and it can make you think about the vastness of space and your own role in it in a completely new way…

41. “Star Man” by David Bowie

This one featured on “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars”, an album that told a story set post-apocalypse that many thought would have little commercial success as it had no potential hit singles.

How wrong they were.

In the early days, few people had seen Bowie perform and when he showed up on Top of the Pops dressed as this flame-haired alien, his stage presence stole the show.

“There’s a starman waiting in the sky He’d like to come and meet us But he thinks he’d blow our minds”

42. “Intergalactic” by Beastie Boys

Next up is a space song from the early hip-hop world as the Beastie Boys flex their capabilities. Telling us in no uncertain terms that they are out of this world.

“Now when it comes to envy y’all is green Jealous of the rhyme and the rhyme routine Another dimension, new galaxy Intergalactic, planetary”

The space ties are pretty loose but it’s a famous song about space nonetheless and some of the lyrical references are humorous as is the music video.

“If you want to battle you’re in denial Comin’ from Uranus to check my style”

43. “Contact” by Daft Punk

In the world of electronic dance with another song about space, this time from the french masked duo Daft Punk.

The track was recorded for their 2013 “Random Access Memories” album and is a typical musical offering from the pair.

The interesting thing is the lyrics which have a definitive space theme were a genuine audio sample from the Apollo 17 mission.

In the sample, you can hear the late Eugene Cernan the eleventh and last man to walk on the moon reporting back to ground control about what he can see.

44. “Spaceman” by Babylon Zoo

On to a slightly earlier space song from Babylon Zoo.

In all honesty, the group rose and disappeared quickly and were more or less one-hit wonders .

But the hook was strong with this one and it featured in commercials propelling the previously little-known rock band into the limelight momentarily.

The reason they flopped so heavily was that the ten-second hook that Levi’s used for an ad campaign was nothing like the rest of the track at all.

Millions went out and bought it to hear what the band had to offer and were utterly disappointed!

45. “Supermassive Black Hole” by Muse

To be fair, Muse has a handful of songs about space, but here is the second one we picked for our list, for the interest it presents musically.

When it was released it was pretty experimental for the group known for their alternative edge, Bellamy and the rest of the band really branched out with this one in terms of genres lacing it with electronica, dance, and funk vibes.

“You set my soul alight Glaciers melting in the dead of night And the superstars sucked into the super massive (you set my soul alight) Glaciers melting in the dead of night And the superstars sucked into the super massive (you set my soul) Super massive black hole”

46. “Cosmic Girl” by Jamiroquai

With its disco throwback vibes and psychedelic spacey lyrics, we have the making of a great entry from acid-funk-jazz artist Jamiroquai.

The track is even listed as space disco as a genre!

Lyrics include a mountain of references to the heavens above as the guy describes his celestial match who has his heart at “zero gravity” .

“‘I’m scanning all my radars Well she said she’s from a quasar Forty thousand million light years away It’s a distant solar system”

47. “E.T.” by Katy Perry

Within the songs about space category we inevitably have a lot of songs about aliens.

E.T. by Katy Perry is a song about a love interest who is from another world be it literally or metaphorically speaking.

When we fall for someone we often hold them on a pedestal where nobody compares.

Perry is “ready for abduction” and describes what they have as transcendental.

“You’re not like the others Futuristic lover Different DNA They don’t understand you You’re from a whole ‘nother world A different dimension”

48. “Alien” by Britney Spears

Similarly but from a polar position, Britney confesses how she felt lonely and different until someone special came along who understood her. Before she felt “like an alien”.

She describes the journey to finding one person, comparing it to space travel with her lyrics.

“Crossed through the universe to get where you are Travel the night, riding on a shooting star Was lonely then, like an alien”

49. “Levitating” by Dua Lipa

If you are after modern pop songs about space then how about Dua Lipa’s “Levitating”?

Although not specifically space-centric it makes comparisons between the rush of emotions associated with love and relationships, additionally, a lot of interstellar terminology is littered throughout the lyrics.

“If you wanna run away with me, I know a galaxy And I can take you for a ride”

This electronic, space rock-come-nu-disco track is funky as heck with a popping bassline that drives it and a fast-paced rhythmic melody line.

“You want me, I want you, baby My sugarboo, I’m levitating The Milky Way, we’re renegading”

50. “Space Man” by Sam Ryder

While we are mulling over the modern entries, we have to mention the UK’s recent (2022) Eurovision track. Sang by social media singing sensation Sam Ryder.

It is a solidly written tune with all the makings of a contemporary commercial hit, simplistic enough to win over international crowds.

The track was the highest-scoring UK Eurovision entry to date and almost secured the UK the winning spot.

Each verse opens with If I was an astronaut” and concludes with the fact that he is “only human” . It is a reflective piece and very relatable, we are all in some ways “up in space”.

“Up in space, man I’ve searched around the universe Been down some black holes There’s nothing but space, man And I wanna go home”

It is one of those songs about astronauts with a deep underlying message.

51. “A Spaceman Came Travelling” by Chris de Burgh

Not your typical De Burgh track, but this art-rock tune that was a bit of a flop has undeniable space ties throughout and the synthesizer gives it an extra-terrestrial edge.

He has previously stated that he was inspired by reading Von Daniken’s Chariots Of The Gods after he became amused by the notion proposed within the book that the star of Bethlehem could have been a spacecraft!

“A spaceman came traveling on his ship from afar ‘Twas light years of time since his mission did start And over a village, he halted his craft And it hung in the sky like a star, just like a star”

52. “Calling Occupants Of Interplanetary Craft” by Carpenters

When it comes to songs about spaceships this odd offering from the Carpenters crops to mind…

It was originally a track by Klatuu, a lesser-known Canadian rock band , but the Carpenter’s version hit the charts.

In place of Klatuu’s animal and nature sound samples, the Carpenters opened their version with a radio DJ voice-over and the song uses over 160 musicians in its recording.

The original inspiration for this spaceship song is based on a strange concept written about in The Flying Saucer Reader book where the “International Flying Saucer Bureau” urged all of its members to participate in an international interstellar contact experiment.

53. “Andromeda” by Paul Weller

“The dying planet grew dark and still My feisty engines took me up and then I could see? Oh, Andromeda”

Originally recorded in 2008 but redone for his 2021 album and well received by ‘dad-rock’ fans, this track has a fair few space references within its lyrical content and a dreamy orchestral reimagining that gives it a space-like feel to match.

It has heavy strings and synth sound choices with an ominous breakdown from the 1-minute mark.

Weller obviously made good use of his time during the pandemic lockdown!

54. “Jupiter Crash” by The Cure

“She follows me down to the sound of the sea Slips to the sand and stares up at me “is this how it happens? is this how it feels? Is this how a star falls?”

This 4-minute musical journey from The Cure is pretty contradictory, we have a lot of music for so few lyrics and the music presents a real juxtaposition.

The chord progressions and musical decisions are beautiful but it tells a disparate tale about the reality of a disappointing sexual experience that has been built into something wonderful beforehand and the disillusionment or “crash” that follows.

“was that it? was that the Jupiter show? Kinda wasn’t quite what I’d hoped for, you know”

Expectations aren’t always met.

55. “The Space Race Is Over” by Billy Bragg

This track is full of space references from the get go;

“When I was young I told my mum I’m going to walk on the Moon someday Armstrong and Aldrin spoke to me From Houston and Cape Kennedy And I watched the Eagle landing On a night when the Moon was full And as it tugged at the tides, I knew deep inside I too could feel its pull”

If you are in the mood for listening to songs about space travel then this one is a sweet and relaxing soft-rock track that should hit the spot.

56. “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen

Okay, so this one might be a stretch whilst it’s not exactly a song about space per-say the verses are filled with nods to the cosmos and it’s such a killer track we are sure no one is going to bang us to rights.

“I’m a shooting star leaping through the sky Like a tiger defying the laws of gravity”

A beautiful composition that starts like a piece of musical theatre with a legato intro that builds until kick-in full throttle and it’s an exhilarating ride from there on out…

Just like one would imagine blasting off into space would be.

“Yeah, I’m a rocket ship on my way to Mars On a collision course I am a satellite I’m out of control”

57. “The Final Countdown” by Europe

“We’re headin’ for Venus” …

We have seen some pretty cool space songs but songs about space travel don’t come half as epic as this glam-metal synth-sensation.

It was an instant hit for the Swedish group with a now iconic keyboard riff recognized by the world over.

Funnily enough, the band wasn’t sold on the synth to begin with they, thought it was too different and not rocky enough. Fortunately, they bit the bullet.

What better final song to feature in our countdown of songs about space!

Songs About Space – Final Thoughts

As you can see, our list of the best songs about space is quite versatile.

Many songs about space were made around the first landing on the Moon in 1969. And of course, people are still very intrigued by space travel and all the possibilities it could bring.

After all, space is still a huge mystery to us, but we learn something new about it each day.

Nevertheless, we hope this article helped you discover a lot of good songs for your space playlist!

Similar Playlists:

Songs About Nature

Will Fenton

30 Best Sing-Along Songs That Everyone Knows & Loves

40 Best Songs About War & Anti-War Of All Time

Latest from entertainment & playlists.

15 Best Anthony Hamilton Songs Of All Time (Greatest Hits)

14 Best Ajr Songs Of All Time (Greatest Hits)

14 Best Sugar Ray Songs Of All Time (Greatest Hits)

15 Best Sara Bareilles Songs Of All Time (Greatest Hits)

15 Best Twenty One Pilots Songs Of All Time (Greatest Hits)

• Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine
• Previous Issues
• Future tech
• Everyday science
• Planet Earth
• Newsletters

Space music: 10 of the best songs about space

David Bowie, Pink Floyd, Europe - there are some pretty cosmic tunes out there about our Solar System and beyond, so we’ve collected some of the galaxy's best songs about space.

Alexander McNamara

Space, with its infinite number of galaxies, stars, moons and planets has been inspiration to the arts for many centuries. Music has been particularly inspired, so here are some of our favourite space songs -let us know if you have a favourite on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram .

David Bowie – Space Oddity

It seems fitting to start with the late David Bowie’s space epic, which tells of the fictional astronaut Major Tom and his doomed voyage into space.

Often covered, the only person ever to do justice to Bowie’s masterpiece was when real-life astronaut Chris Hadfield covered it , but then he did have the advantage of actually being in space.

The Police – Walking On The Moon

Walking on the Moon is classic Sting moment, with his band The Police turning out one of their most groovy reggae-inspired hits to the background of space exploration.

Not only is the video filmed at the Kennedy Space Centre, the drummer, Stewart Copeland plays the drums on a Saturn V moon rocket. We expect the next music video filmed in space to be this, performed on the Moon. We’re looking at you again, Chris Hadfield…

Chris De Burgh – A Spaceman Came Travelling

Ok, excusing the unavoidable fact that it is by one of the ultimate cringe-inducing musicians and it’s not so much a story about space but the second coming of Christ, it’s still a pretty catchy song.

Now everyone sing, “laa la la, laa la la, la lala la…”

Babylon Zoo – Spaceman

Babylon Zoo promised to be around for a long time when their chart topper Spaceman was released on the back of a 1996 Levi's advert . They didn’t, they fizzled out quicker than Pluto’s dreams of becoming a planet again.

Public Service Broadcasting – The Race For Space (album)

In 2015, British alternative group Public Service Broadcasting cut and paste their way to a whole album of samples from the early days of the space race between the USA and the Soviet Union, mixing sound bites of speeches, space noise and satellites to create a suitably spacey album. And the video above has dancing astronauts, which is pretty cool.

Ash – Girl From Mars

Love knows no boundaries, even across the reaches of the Solar System, as Northern Irish rockers Ash proved in their 1995 hit, Girl From Mars . Yes, if you thought the Universe was old, this song has been power-chording its way through our brains for over 20 years.

We all just felt a little bit older…

Gustav Holst – The Planets

The Planets , one of the most popular pieces by English composer Gustav Holst, is often hailed as one of the greatest pieces of classical music about space. Say it quietly though, but the piece is influenced far more by astrology than astronomy, Holst being a keen devotee of horoscopes.

Still, it is rather epic.

Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon (album)

Ok, we’ll admit it. Apart from the title, this album doesn’t really have anything to do with space (in fact the main themes are conflict, greed, the passage of time, and mental illness), but it has inspired any number of science fans throughout the years.

Also, the song Time has plenty of scientific undertones in it, so we’ll let this minor indiscretion slide.

The Prodigy – Out of Space

Back in the heady days of the 90s dance scene, The Prodigy were one of the biggest names in the business, and this was the hit that took the band from being Earth-bound ravers to an out-of-this world act.

With the words “I’m transcending to Outer Space…” from reggae star Max Romeo’s Chase the Devil , with “I'll take your brain to another dimension,” and a video of The Prodigy dancing around like aliens ( no, that’s just how they danced in the 90s ), this song is the ultimate space dance anthem.

The video also has ostriches in it, which is suitably weird.

Europe – The Final Countdown

How could we finish this list on anything other than the monstrously successful space-epic The Final Countdown by Swedish rockers Europe.

With lyrics inspired by the David Bowie’s Space Oddity , the song went on to reach No 1 in 25 countries. Not bad for a song that wasn’t even supposed to be a single!

Share this article

Online Editor, BBC Science Focus

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Code of conduct
• Magazine subscriptions
• Manage preferences

Bill Overton 1am - 4am

Now Playing

Fantasia on a theme by Thomas Tallis Ralph Vaughan Williams Download 'Fantasia on a theme by Thomas Tallis' on iTunes

7 times classical music was inspired by space

10 July 2019, 18:19 | Updated: 20 May 2022, 16:34

By Helena Asprou

The 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 landings is on the horizon so, to mark the occasion, here are seven classical masterpieces inspired by our incredible cosmos.

1. ‘Where We’re Going’, Hans Zimmer

This exquisite piece of music is taken from the soundtrack album to Christopher Nolan’s 2014 film, Interstellar . Zimmer’s complex instrumental score includes parts for the 1926 four-manual Harrison & Harrison organ found in London’s Temple Church , an ensemble of 34 strings , 24 woodwinds and four pianos , as well as a 60-voice choir. To fit the concept of air and breath, Zimmer instructed the musicians to play their instruments in an unusual manner, while singers were told to face away from the microphones as they exhaled.

Hans Zimmer-Interstellar-Where We're Going

2. The Planets, Gustav Holst

Perhaps the most famous classical composition to honour astronomy, Holst ’s monumental masterpiece, The Planets , was written between 1914-1916 – and 15 years before Pluto was discovered. Its seven movements take listeners on an epic journey around the Solar System and include the ominous percussion in ‘Mars’, the beautifully eerie ‘Venus’ and swelling brass in ‘Jupiter’.

Gustav Holst- The Planets, Full Suite

3. ‘All That Is Or Ever Was or Ever Will Be’, Alan Silvestri

American science documentary TV series Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey (2014) demanded a score that was out of this world – and Alan Silvestri ’s spectacular soundtrack certainly lived up to the challenge. In fact, it was so popular with TV audiences that Silvestri won two Emmys for ‘Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music’ and ‘Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score) in the year the film was released.

"All That Is or Ever Was or Ever Will Be"

4. Deep Field: Earth Choir , Eric Whitacre

Dramatic and mesmerising in equal measure, this classical masterpiece was inspired by the Hubble Space Telescope , and its greatest discovery, The Deep Fields – images showing remote galaxies that give us clues about how the universe evolved. Composed and conducted by Grammy Award-winner Eric Whitacre , it features Virtual Choir 5 , an online choir with more than 8,000 voices, aged 4-87, from 120 countries around the world.

Deep Field - Eric Whitacre

5. Our Planet soundtrack, Steven Price

Released earlier this year, Netflix’s David Attenborough nature series Our Planet explores some of Earth’s most precious habitats. Academy Award-winning film composer Steven Price wrote the moving soundtrack for the show, which has an “uplifting quality” and is “full of thematic ideas that were all entwined throughout”. As well as featuring a full symphony orchestra , Price collaborated with chart-topping singer Ellie Goulding and songwriter Lisa Hannigan.

Read more: 'Our Planet' composer, Steven Price, discusses his score to latest David Attenborough Netflix documentary

Baby Blue | Our Planet OST

6. Rosetta , Vangelis

Released in 2016 via Decca Records, this ambient album penned by Greek composer Vangelis was dedicated to the Rosetta space probe mission, which launched in 2004. Combining electronic sound samples with soaring strings, pizzicato passages and beautiful harp glissandos, its space-themed tracks include ‘Starstuff’, ‘Sunlight’ and ‘Celestial Whispers’.

Vangelis - Vangelis: Rosetta Timeline (Rosetta)

7. ‘Three Million Light Years From Home’ (from E.T. ), John Williams

John Williams is the film composer of the past few decades – and this can partly be attributed to his impressive score to Steven Spielberg’s 1982 film E.T. . Released on June 11 of the same year of the film's release, film fans quickly fell in love with Williams’ Academy Award-winning soundtrack, which includes that unmistakeable main theme.

Three Million Light Years From Home (From "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" Soundtrack)

Also... ‘Also sprach Zarathustra’, Richard Strauss

We couldn't talk about space and music in the same breath without mentioning Strauss ’s sublime ‘Also Sprach Zarathustra’, which flips the script and provides a stunning example of space inspired by music .

Composed in 1896 by Richard Strauss, this magnificent tone poem was inspired by Friedrich Nietzche’s philosophical novel of the same name. In recent years, the piece has become well known for its bold fanfare, titled ‘Sunrise’, after it featured in Stanley Kubrick’s epic 1968 science fiction film, 2001: A Space Odyssey .

Also Sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30 - Strauss

The Apollo 11 moon landings took place on July 20, 1969.

Latest on Classic FM

Armed forces and children sing beethoven’s ‘ode to joy’ in stirring d-day commemoration, the 25 best pianists of all time.

Discover Music

Rihanna, Studio Ghibli and Black Panther appear in new official piano syllabus

D-day 80: the most poignant wartime songs, d-day: 10 pieces of classical music to mark the 80th anniversary, treble malakai bayoh sings moving ‘abide with me’ on 80th anniversary of d-day landings, a 316-year-old violin once owned by catherine the great is now an nft, innocent masuku’s ‘unstoppable’ nessun dorma leaves britain’s got talent judge in tears, 25-year-old ukrainian wins prestigious competition with thrilling shostakovich violin concerto, shostakovich is the subject of a new film, starring august diehl, best classical music.

See more Best classical music

The 15 most famous tunes in classical music

The 15 greatest symphonies of all time, the 4 eras of classical music: a quick guide, the 25 greatest conductors of all time, 30 of the greatest classical music composers of all time, classic fm live playlists.

See more Classic FM Live Playlists

Classical Summertime

Classic fm hall of fame, classic fm relax, classic fm revision, classic fm movie music hall of fame, classic fm video game music, latest news.

See more Latest news

Curious cat wanders on stage during Beethoven’s ‘Pastoral’ Symphony in Istanbul

This week’s classic fm radio highlights – including featured albums this week, what is a scale, what is the champions league music and what are the lyrics to the football anthem, is the champions league song the same as handel’s zadok the priest, young musician surprised mid-orchestra rehearsal by his favourite radio presenter, latest videos.

See more Latest videos

Exuberant conductor knocks rare violin out of soloist’s hand in concerto nightmare

12 days ago

Innocent Masuku sings hair-raising Hans Zimmer anthem to win place in Britain’s Got Talent final

Singer and cellist laufey: ‘i hope to be a gateway to classical music for new audiences’.

17 days ago

Elbow turn Manchester crowd into 23,500-strong choir in spine-tingling harmony

19 days ago

Jeneba Kanneh-Mason stuns with blistering take on Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No.2

24 days ago

Unearthed footage of 15-year-old Joshua Bell playing Tchaikovsky is terrifyingly good

25 days ago

Joshua Bell

NSF News and Magazine

Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time.

Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time.

30 Songs About Space Travel That Will Take You Out of This World

October 1, 2023, 11:50 am

Introduction to songs about space travel

Music has always been a powerful tool for escapism, allowing listeners to be transported to different worlds and realities. One particular theme that has captivated artists and audiences alike is space travel. From soaring melodies to cosmic lyrics, songs about space travel ignite our imagination and take us on journeys through the vast expanse of the universe. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of songs about space travel, exploring their origins, benefits, and showcasing 30 incredible tracks that will truly take you out of this world.

The fascination with space in music

The fascination with space is deeply ingrained in human culture, and it comes as no surprise that it has found its way into the realm of music. Artists have long been inspired by the mysteries and wonders of the cosmos, and have used their craft to capture the awe and excitement that space travel evokes. Whether it’s the longing to explore the unknown, the yearning for adventure, or the desire to connect with something greater than ourselves, songs about space travel tap into the universal human experience of curiosity and wonder.

Benefits of listening to space-themed music

Listening to space-themed music offers a multitude of benefits beyond just pure enjoyment. It can be a form of relaxation, providing a sense of calm and tranquility as you immerse yourself in the ethereal sounds and melodies. Space music can also be a source of inspiration, fueling your imagination and creativity as you envision distant galaxies and cosmic landscapes. Furthermore, it can serve as a form of education, introducing listeners to scientific concepts and encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation of space exploration.

30 songs about space travel to add to your playlist

Classic space-themed songs.

“Space Oddity” by David Bowie: A timeless classic that tells the story of an astronaut floating in space, it perfectly captures the sense of isolation and wonder.

“Rocket Man” by Elton John: This iconic song explores the life of a space traveler, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics.

“Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra : A beautiful ballad that evokes the romanticism of space travel, transporting listeners to a dreamy lunar landscape.

“Life on Mars?” by David Bowie: Another Bowie masterpiece, this song contemplates the possibility of life beyond Earth, with its poetic lyrics and captivating melody.

“Space Cowboy” by Steve Miller Band: With its catchy chorus and groovy guitar riffs, this song takes you on a cosmic journey with a touch of nostalgia.

Modern space-themed songs

“Countdown” by Beyoncé : Taking inspiration from space exploration, this energetic track showcases Beyoncé’s vocal prowess and her ability to captivate audiences.

“Saturn” by Sleeping at Last: With its hauntingly beautiful lyrics and ethereal instrumentation, this song paints a vivid picture of the mysterious planet Saturn.

“Lost in the World” by Kanye West: Combining elements of hip-hop and electronic music, this song creates a sense of otherworldly atmosphere and introspection.

“Space Song” by Beach House: Known for their dreamy soundscapes, Beach House takes listeners on a celestial journey with this mesmerizing track.

Instrumental space music

“Also sprach Zarathustra” by Richard Strauss: This iconic orchestral piece, famously used in Stanley Kubrick’s film “2001: A Space Odyssey,” evokes a sense of grandeur and cosmic scale.

“Mars, the Bringer of War” by Gustav Holst: Part of Holst’s “The Planets” suite, this powerful composition captures the intensity and chaos of interstellar conflict.

“Pulstar” by Vangelis : Known for his atmospheric and emotive soundscapes, Vangelis takes listeners on a cosmic journey with this mesmerizing instrumental track.

“Interstellar” by Hans Zimmer: From the soundtrack of the film “Interstellar,” Zimmer’s composition captures the epic nature of space exploration, with its soaring melodies and dramatic orchestration.

“Space Theme” by John Williams: This iconic theme from the “Star Wars” franchise perfectly encapsulates the spirit of adventure and exploration.

Songs that capture the wonder and beauty of the cosmos

“Across the Universe” by The Beatles: With its dreamlike quality and introspective lyrics, this song invites listeners to contemplate the vastness of the universe.

“Galileo” by Indigo Girls: Celebrating the spirit of scientific discovery, this folk-rock anthem pays homage to Galileo Galilei and his quest to understand the cosmos.

“The Universe” by Gregory Alan Isakov: This hauntingly beautiful song explores the interconnectedness of all things in the universe, with its poetic lyrics and delicate instrumentation.

“Dark Matter” by Andrew Belle: With its atmospheric sound and introspective lyrics, this track invites listeners to ponder the mysteries of the cosmos and our place within it.

“Stargazing” by Kygo ft. Justin Jesso: A feel-good anthem that captures the joy and excitement of looking up at the stars and contemplating the infinite possibilities of the universe.

Creating your own space music playlist

Now that you have been introduced to a variety of songs about space travel, it’s time to create your own space music playlist. Start by selecting tracks that resonate with you personally, whether it’s the lyrics, melodies, or the overall atmosphere of the song. Consider the emotions you want to evoke and the mood you want to set. Do you want a playlist that is introspective and contemplative, or one that is upbeat and energizing? Experiment with different combinations and see what works best for you. As you listen to your space music playlist, allow yourself to be transported to distant galaxies and let your imagination soar among the stars.

Conclusion: Let the music take you on a journey through the stars

Songs about space travel have the power to ignite our imagination and take us on extraordinary journeys through the cosmos. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, modern pop, or ambient instrumentals, there’s a space-themed song out there for everyone. So, why not create your own space music playlist and let the music take you on a journey through the stars? Immerse yourself in the ethereal melodies, contemplate the mysteries of the universe, and let your imagination soar to new heights. The cosmos awaits, and the soundtrack is yours to create.

songs about space travel space music playlist space playlist

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

NSF Music Magazine © contact: [email protected]

34 Best Songs About Space; These Were Written In The Stars

Space captivates the human mind.

It evokes images of a vast, dark emptiness, stars, and planets, block holes and nebula…

It stimulates our imagination. It makes us wonder what else is out there.

Are there other planets we could occupy? What do they look like? And are they occupied by other intelligent creatures?

Much of it is speculation, but it certainly makes it a great subject for songs.

In this guide, we’ll be looking at 34 of the best songs about space.

“Space Oddity” by David Bowie

Song year: 1969

David Bowie was incredibly prolific through the years, and landed platinum hits in every decade from the 70s onward during his lifetime.

Even so, he will continue to be remembered for “Space Oddity”, more so than just about any other song he ever published.

Its influence, by the way, is felt all over this list, as you're about to see.

“Space Oddity” was written after Bowie saw the Stanley Kubrick film 2001: A Space Odyssey . Bowie also admitted, however, that he was under the influence when he saw the movie and wrote the song.

The song tells the story of Major Tom, an astronaut who ultimately gets stranded in space. But many people assumed the song was about the space landing, and the song got used heavily by BBC around that time despite the somewhat dark subject matter (Major Tom never returns to earth).

 It will certainly stand as one of my favorite songs about space, though!

“We Are All Made Of Stars” by Moby

Song year: 2002

This early 2000s hit was hard to avoid upon its release. And apparently it was written in New York after September 11 to express a sense of hopefulness.

Reading the lyrics, you get the sense that the song is also vaguely about relationships: “People they come together / People they fall apart / No one can stop us now / ‘Cause we are all made of stars.”

These lyrics allude to the fact that our bodies are made up of a tiny percentage of stardust, the same thing most of the universe is made up of.

No matter how you want to cut it, though, I think it’s a bit of a weird song.

“Space Truckin’” by Deep Purple

Song year: 1972

The lyrics to “Space Truckin’” feature plenty of references to space, whether it’s Mars, the Milky Way, or the solar system. But they kind of read like one big pun.

This is basically one of those songs where you can let your imagination get carried away by what it would be like to travel through space (because that's exactly what the song is about!).

I’m partial to Deep Purple ’s music in general, so I find this to be a fun hard rock track to listen to.

“Walking On The Moon” by The Police

Song year: 1979

Depends who you ask, but British reggae rock band The Police sure had an impressive (if short) run, creating some amazing music along the way. It certainly doesn’t hurt that they had Sting as their lead singer and bassist (but I’ve always thought the entire band was amazing).

So, looking at the lyrics, they're kind of cryptic, leading you to wonder what the song might be about.

Apparently, an inebriated Sting wrote the song after going to a concert in Munich (that gives it a bit of context). He happened to remember it the next morning and wrote it down.

Sting basically explained that it was a song about being in love , because when you’re in love, you feel like you could defy gravity.

“Supersonic Rocket Ship” by The Kinks

Ever wanted a hippie rock song about inclusion and equality? Then The Kinks’ “Supersonic Rocket Ship” will be music to your ears.

The song is, of course, brimming with the same idealism held by hippies.

It has been suggested, however, that songwriter Ray Davies was perhaps making fun of rock star hippies.

I’m not so sure but take what you will from it.

“Space Cowboy” by Steve Miller Band

“Space Cowboy” by Steve Miller Band is a catchy (if quirky) rock and roll song.

Lyrically, it seems to be a song about “finding a new way.” Where I have no idea whether The Kinks’ “Supersonic Rocket Ship” is anti-hippie, “Space Cowboy” at least hints at it:

“And I’m tired of all this talk about love / And the same old story with a new set of words.”

Overall, it’s just a song about being tired of the way things are and wanting things to change.

“There’s A Star For Everyone” by Aretha Franklin

Song year: 1981

“Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin’s “There’s A Star For Everyone” is a ballad about being unsure whether your love is being reciprocated. Not unrequited love , but close.

The title comes from a line the backing singers sing: “There’s a star for everyone who’s lost.”

I guess this would be the idea of True North – you can still find your way back home looking up at the stars, even if love leaves you feeling lost.

“Mr. Spaceman” by The Byrds

Song year: 1966

On the surface, The Byrds’ “Mr. Spaceman” seems to be a song about escapism. Trying to get away from a world where everything is going wrong.

Apparently, the band wrote it as a science fiction-themed song, created as a “melodramatic screenplay.”

I don’t sense any melodrama at work here, but I can appreciate the song for what it is either way.

“Space Station #5” by Montrose

Song year: 1973

If I didn’t know better, I would say this hard rock song is about escapism – getting away from challenges and difficulties you’re facing.

Vocalist and songwriter of “Space Station #5” Sammy Hagar claims to have been abducted by aliens when he was a child, so it has been suspected that there is a connection between that experience and this song.

Some reviewers have been quick to explain away this experience as a bad dream, but I guess we'll never know.

“Rocket” by Def Leppard

Song year: 1987

Def Leppard’s catalog is riddled with hits, and “Rocket” is no exception.

The subject matter of Def Leppard songs often proves much simpler or less serious than you might have at first assumed.

“Rocket” is a good example of that, because it’s basically just a tribute to Leppard's influences and some of the greatest artists and bands of all time – The Beatles, David Bowie, Elton John, and so on. There are no hidden meanings here.

“Space Junk” by Devo

Song year: 1976

There are few bands that epitomize the quirky, rawness of “new wave” like Devo.

The song tells a story of Sally, who gets hit by “space junk.” And by the end of the song, she’s dead because of the junk. The narrator, therefore, expresses his distaste for things flying down from space.

The title of the song was apparently taken from a headline found in Akron Beacon Journal in 1975. Besides that, we assume the song is somewhat open to interpretation.

“There’s A Moon In The Sky (Called The Moon)” by B-52s

Continuing with the new wave theme, we have the B-52s “There’s A Moon In The Sky (Called The Moon)”.

At first glance, the song basically just makes a lot of references to space, whether it’s Saturn, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Van Allen belt, supernova, or otherwise. But there’s also an interesting reference to Superman with “Kryptonite”.

Not sure what else to tell you about this song, except that it’s oddly catchy and groovy.

“Man On The Moon” by R.E.M.

Song year: 1992

By now it’s well known that “Man On The Moon” is a song about innovative comedian Andy Kaufman.

If you don’t know anything about him, you could certainly watch the movie of the same name starring Jim Carrey. You can also watch some of his performances on YouTube.

The fact that Kaufman's presence extended into music shows you just how influential he was.

“2,000 Light Years From Home” by The Rolling Stones

Song year: 1967

The Rolling Stones’ “2,000 Light Years From Home” is abstract to say the least – both lyrically and musically.

Apparently, singer Mick Jagger wrote the lyrics while in Brixton prison.

So, I guess it could be said that the song is about missing home while you’re in prison. We assume that's the case.

“Stellar” by Incubus

Song year: 1999

“Stellar” is one of Incubus’ most recognized songs.

The song is basically about how the narrator feels about someone he’s fallen for (“stellar”). He’s never met anyone that makes him feel this good. There are more songs on this list that follow a similar theme.

“Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden

Song year: 1994

If you were anywhere near a radio in the mid-90s, there was no avoiding Soundgarden’s “Block Hole Sun”, a grunge rock hit.

Singer, guitarist, and songwriter Chris Cornell said the song was about the contrast between dark and light.

Apparently, he found it fascinating that a black hole is a billion times larger than the sun, but it’s a dark void of nothingness. Meanwhile, the sun offers light and is life-giving.

“Starlight” by Muse

Song year: 2006

As with many songs about space, this one via Muse also appears to be about escapism and falling in love.

The band noted it’s basically just a song about missing someone, which aligns with our view of it.

“Black Star” by Radiohead

Song year: 1995

As with most Radiohead songs, “Black Star” certainly seems to have some dark undertones. But if you look passed the poetry of it, you basically just see a relationship that’s falling apart.

It has also been theorized that it’s a song about depression. The girl (or woman) the narrator speaks of is having a hard time, and this pains the narrator as well.

“Mambo Sun” by T. Rex

Song year: 1971

In recent memory, grunge music is often referred to as “abstract”, but there was plenty of music in the 60s and 70s that was likewise like a spray of paint on a canvas (to be fair, some of it was created under the influence).

Want to see what I mean?

“My life’s a shadowless horse / If I can’t get across to you / In the alligator rain / My heart’s all pain for you.”

But in the end, it’s just a song about being madly in love.

“Satellite Of Love” by Lou Reed

David Bowie’s influence can be heard and felt all over “Satellite Of Love”.

As Lou Reed was beginning work on the song, a satellite had just been launched, and it was covered heavily in the news.

The song is apparently about a man who watches this on the news as he’s reflecting on his unfaithful girlfriend.

I can’t find that anywhere in the lyrics, but it does make sense when you know.

“The Final Countdown” by Europe

Song year: 1986

“The Final Countdown” by Europe is an 80s favorite, though if we’re being honest, the reason it keeps resurfacing is because it continues to get discovered by the younger generations.

After all, the song is kind of cheesy. But in our opinion, it is the right kind of guilty pleasure.

Lyrically, it was inspired by David Bowie’s “Space Oddity”, so not much needs to be said in that regard.

“Cygnus X-1” by Rush

Song year: 1977

Cygnus X-1, of course, is a galactic X-ray source in the constellation Cygnus.

The song, “Cygnus X-1” is in fact a song series by Canadian progressive rock band Rush (we've embedded the video featuring the first part “Cygnus X-1 Book One – The Voyage”).

The song tells the story of an explorer traveling towards the black hole to see whether there is anything beyond it.

I’m not going to give any spoilers as to what happens, but if you’re curious, I would suggest exploring it for yourself.

The music certainly takes you on a journey, and it was obviously written that way.

“Mothership Connection (Star Child)” by Parliament

Song year: 1975

I don’t think “Mothership Connection” by Parliament is meant to be taken seriously. It’s a funk song, so you know it mostly exists to make you dance.

And to be honest, lyrically, the song is basically about partying and dancing.

“Heart Of The Sunrise” by Yes

Here’s another progressive rock song about space via British band Yes.

If I were to take the song at face value, I would probably say it’s about heartbreak.

Songwriter Jon Anderson has given a few explanations as to the song’s meaning – being lost in the city, the energy of the sunrise, or the power of love.

So, we’re left scratching our heads a little, but we suspect it’s probably a combination of all the above.

“Major Tom (Coming Home)” by Peter Schilling

Song year: 1982

Yet another song that references David Bowie’s “Space Oddity.” But in this song, Major Tom somehow survives and begins making his way home.

Bowie did not have a part in writing the song , nor was he involved in producing it. So, the song “unofficially” connects to Bowie’s song, but it’s almost certainly referencing it.

“Supernaut” by Black Sabbath

“Supernaut” by Black Sabbath is mostly known for its many, varied, and incredibly catchy guitar riffs.

The lyrics kind of seem nonsensical. But some suspect the title is a play on the term “psychonaut”, which refers to someone who explores the psyche.

As with other songs from this period, it might refer to being under the influence as well.

“A Sky Full Of Stars” by Coldplay

Song year: 2014

Coldplay’s “A Sky Full Of Stars” is about falling for someone amazing:

“’Cause you’re a sky, ‘cause you’re a sky full of stars.”

Of course, there is a catch – this special someone might end up breaking the narrator’s heart, and the narrator knows it.

Aside from that, I just think of this as a catchy dance song.

“Drops Of Jupiter (Tell Me)” by Train

Song year: 2001

If you were listening to music in the early 2000s, it’s unlikely you haven’t heard “Drops OF Jupiter (Tell Me)” by Train.

The narrator tells the story of a girl/woman who can’t sit still. Could be that she likes to travel and explore the world. It could also be that she has big dreams and is always thinking about how life could be.

Lead singer Patrick Monahan, however, said the song is about his mother who died after struggling with cancer.

So, in a way, it’s a song about mourning.

“Lucky Star” by Madonna

Song year: 1983

As with many Madonna songs, this is just a catchy pop song about being in love (or maybe in lust).

No deep meanings here.

But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have a weak spot for this era of Madonna music, because of how groovy and danceable the songs are.

“Rocket Man” by Elton John

Elton John’s “Rocket Man” was inspired by a short story of the same title. And the themes explored seem to match up with that of Bowie’s “Space Oddity” too.

There are other theories concerning the meaning behind the song, but it’s clear it tells the story of a man going up into air (or space), not to return for a long time to come.

“E.T.” by Katy Perry

Song year: 2010

“E.T.” by Katy Perry is basically just about being in love and infatuation, as many of her songs are.

The song certainly builds up the person the narrator has fallen for, but that has you wondering whether it’s just going to be a big letdown for the narrator.

The narrator does seem self-aware, however, as she says:

“Infect me with your love and fill me with your poison.”

Nevertheless, she’s not turning and running the other way, either.

“Jupiter Crash” by The Cure

Song year: 1996

The Cure’s “Jupiter Crash” sounds kind of somber from the start and seems to carry themes of love lost throughout.

Many of us have that experience of encountering someone we connect with or are attracted to, but just as soon as they arrive, they quickly disappear from our lives. That’s what this song seems to be describing.

“Spaceship Superstar” by Prism

Whenever I think of songs about space, I can’t help but think of this one. Not because it was from my era, but more so because I’ve heard it on the radio dozens of times.

I’ve always thought of this as a party song, especially with its reference to a “solar-powered laser beam guitar.” And that certainly seems to be the case.

But there is one interesting fact about it – the lyrics were influenced by George Lucas’ Star Wars .

“To The Moon & Back” by Savage Garden

Song year: 1997

Savage Garden was kind of a “hit and run” one-hit wonder of the 90s. Although it’s fair to say they had a little more staying power than some artists of the same ilk, their biggest hits, and most remembered tunes are mostly from their self-titled debut album.

The narrator tells the story of a girl who’s lived a tough life, with references to a difficult family life and a social or relational life that resembles it.

She hasn’t given up, however, and she’s still out there looking for love.

Top Songs With Space In The Title – Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed our look at songs about space.

As you’ve already seen, songs about space aren’t always about space at all, but because it’s such a rich area for metaphor, it inspires the content of many songs.

Which song is your favorite? Are there any we missed? We look forward to hearing from you.

Similar Posts

Girl Power! 63 Best Women Empowerment Songs Ever

Women are strong. And many musicians have taken that strength and put it into song. Here are some of our favorite women empowerment songs we recommend adding to any playlist.

23 Best Rap Songs About Money

We’re chasing those dollar bills y’all!! Rap songs about money are as hard to find as, well, rap songs in general! Many of our favorite hits revolve around currency as it’s such a big part of our lives. With that in mind, here are the best rap songs about money.

21 Best Funeral Songs For The Older Generation

Music is an integral part of any memorial service and finding the perfect song to say goodbye can be difficult. The older generation of mourners may prefer a different style of music than their younger counterparts, so selecting a funeral song that speaks to their life experience is important. Here are some of the best…

57 Songs About Life

There are many songs in the music industry that are inspiring and motivational. What is inspiring and motivational varies from person to person. This list should have a few songs about life for everyone to boost your motivation and help inspire you in life, whether that is in a relationship or to improve yourself.

45 Best Songs about Traveling and Adventure for Inspiration

Whether it is a road trip across America or a day trip to the beach with your best friend, every adventure needs an awesome playlist! Music is one of the best ways to set the mood for any outing, but especially vacations. In this article, you will find the best songs about traveling and adventure….

107 Best 90s Songs

The 90s were a decade best defined musically as “anything goes.” You could hear grunge, hip-hop, and pop on any popular radio station. There were crossover hits from the R&B and country charts hitting big on the pop charts! So it’s no surprise that this list of the best songs of the 1990s includes a…

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of New York for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy New York without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 13 best parks in NYC

The best NYC parks are oases of greenspace where you can enjoy fresh air away from the stresses of the city.

Regardless of the season, New York City’s parks offer a refuge from the stresses of everyday life in the city as well as prime spots for outdoor gatherings. The best NYC parks provide plenty of space and fresh air, perfect for soaking up the sun in summer or taking some time for quiet contemplation in the winter. Whether you’re looking for a bit of nature, a path for jogging or biking, a spot for a picnic or a place to walk your dog, these parks offer all that and much more.

Did you know that there are around 1,700 parks within the five boroughs? From pocket parks to dog parks to massive beauties like Central Park and Prospect Park, NYC’s parks have their own unique characteristics, and all are cherished as jewels among the concrete landscape of the city. While the winter months may not be the best for boating or picnicking, NYC’s parks are still one of the top things to do outside year-round. Central Park is the most popular park in New York for sure, but there may be another you find is the most beautiful—it's all in the eye of the beholder.

These parks are a must for locals and visitors alike. They offer picturesque views, fresh air, and seasonal programming and activities. Be on the lookout for movie screenings, outdoor concerts, holiday markets, hiking , and ice skating . While some are peaceful and some are buzzy hotspots, they all offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy being outside.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in NYC

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our   affiliate   guidelines .

An email you’ll actually love

Best NYC parks

1.  Prospect Park

• Parks and gardens
• Prospect Park

Urban visionaries Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who most famously designed Central Park, also put their stamp on bucolic Prospect Park. Amenities like the Long Meadow and Nethermead offer plenty of space to pull up on a patch of grass and indulge in some people-watching, and the woodland expanse of the Ravine is a towering forest within bustling Brooklyn. Be sure to check out the  Endale Arch and Concert Grove Pavilion .

2.  Central Park

• Central Park

To feel truly out of the city, head to the 38-acre wilderness area known as the Ramble. The area has a storied history, and its winding trails, rocks, and streams await discovery. If you want plenty of sunshine and more of a social vibe, spread out a blanket at Sheep Meadow, where groups playing guitar, catching frisbees, and tanning are sprawled out as far as the eye can see. It's also, of course, the most famous park in New York City. 

3.  Brooklyn Bridge Park

• Brooklyn Heights

Some city parks were built to replicate rustic fields and preserve serene woodland. Brooklyn Bridge Park, however, was not—and that’s precisely why it has become so popular. The project has transformed a chunk of the Brooklyn waterfront into a nearly 85-acre expanse; several sections house unique attractions such as Jane’s Carousel, a restored 1920s merry-go-round, and riverside esplanades with gorgeous Manhattan views. Pier 5 is complete with sports fields and a playground, and nearby Pier 2 has basketball courts and a skating rink. 

4.  Bryant Park

• Midtown West

Situated behind the New York Public Library is Bryant Park, a well-cultivated retreat that hosts a dizzying schedule of free entertainment during the summer. In the winter, look for an ice skating rink and pop-up shops during the Bank of America Winter Village. Added bonus: The park also boasts free wireless access making it the perfect place to work while basking in the sun. 

5.  Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Give the city’s second-biggest park a day and it’ll show you the world: Its most enduring icon is the Unisphere, the mammoth steel globe created for the 1964 World’s Fair.

But there’s also first-rate culture and sports at the New York Hall of Science, Arthur Ashe Stadium, and Citi Field (depending on how the Mets are doing). The rolling green fields also encompass a zoo, a boating lake, a skate park, a barbecue area, playfields, and a $66 million aquatic and hockey center. Wetland plants such as swamp azalea and swamp milkweed help to handle the park’s water runoff, improving the catch-and-release fishing in Meadow Lake.

6.  The Hills at Governors Island

• Governors Island

Listen to the hum of parkgoers and their bicycles as they tool around the island’s two-plus-mile promenade, the gleeful squeals of folks slithering down one of the four massive slides and the delighted gasps of visitors ogling perfect views of the New York Harbor and Lower Manhattan. While much of the green space’s landscape has changed, preexisting features such as Hammock Grove and Picnic Point are still major focal points. The park also offers an adventure playground where revelers can go rock climbing and wander through a maze.

7.  Washington Square Park

• Historic buildings and sites
• Greenwich Village

While it's less green than most of the parks on this list, Washington Square Park is undoubtedly a staple. The hippies who famously turned up and tuned out in the attractions are still there in spirit, and indeed often in person amidst large groups of NYU students.

During the warmer months the park is one of the best people-watching spots in the city, humming with musicians and street artists. Skateboarders clatter near the base of the iconic 1895 Washington Arch (a modest replica of the Arc de Triomphe), and kiddos can splash in the area's fountain on sweltering days.

8.  The High Line

The High Line came to life in 2009, when an old piece of elevated railway track on the Lower West Side of Manhattan was transformed into a verdant floating garden. Now plants and flowers flourish along the walkway, which stretches for almost two miles. Take your time strolling along it and stop to check out the sculptures, beautiful plantings, food vendors, and the view of the Hudson.

9.  Riverside Park

• Upper West Side

This scenic four-mile waterfront park extends from 72nd to 158th Streets along the Hudson River in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Facilities include sports courts, a skate park, bike paths on the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, and a public marina at 79th Street. Fans of You’ve Got Mail will recall that the promenade at 91st Street is the spot where Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan finally revealed their true identities.

10.  Hudson River Park

This strip of waterfront park stretches from Battery Park to 59th Street, allowing you to walk, bike, or skate while gazing at the Hudson River and New Jersey. There are flowers, benches, piers and lots of programs—including youth sports and kayak rides in the river. On Friday evenings, you can spot everything from people at lawnside boot camps to senior citizen singing groups belting it out next to a waterside piano.

11.  Fort Greene Park

• Fort Greene

Brooklyn's first park is also one of its loveliest. Explore the 30-acres designed by Olmstead and Vaux, which comprise open meadows, playgrounds, and a designated space for all sorts of recreational activities. If you’re simply looking for a peaceful space to contemplate the meaning of life, you’ll have no problem finding a quiet haven for your thoughts.

12.  Pelham Bay Park

Jutting into the Long Island Sound with rocky outcroppings, marshy inlets, and lush forest, Pelham Bay Park looks more like Maine than the Bronx. The city’s largest park at 2,766 acres—three times the size of Central Park—it takes hours to explore. Among the massive park's attractions are Orchard Beach, the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, and the Pelham Bay Golf Course.

13.  Inwood Hill Park

There’s a unique reward for trekking to the northernmost corner of Manhattan, where you’ll find enormous trees in the island’s last virgin forest. Much of the park has never been developed; due to its comparatively remote location, the land remained rural up until its 1916 purchase by the Parks Department, who decided to leave Inwood as natural as possible. As a result, the area remains very similar to the way the island was 500 years ago.

Want to have a picnic in the park?

Here are the best picnic spots in NYC

• Things to do

Pack blankets and fill your picnic basket with snacks for an alfresco feast at the best picnic spots in NYC.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Local Marketing Solutions
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

NEW: Classroom Clean-Up/Set-Up Email Course! 🧽

120+ Inspiring Classroom Themes and Ideas To Match Any Teacher’s Style

Let your classroom reflect your personality!

Are you incredibly excited to decorate your classroom in new ways each year? Do you like to change up the theme of your classroom every so many months? Perhaps you are an avid camper/nature enthusiast and what you really want is to bring the outdoors in through an animal theme or a an indoors campsite. If you are a fan of travel, but don’t have the time or funds to do that as much as you want or you simply want to expose your students to geography, why not try a global expedition? You can foster a love of reading in your classroom or library through a classroom theme that is modeled on a beloved book or character. Even television shows, movies, or video games can be used to transform your classroom. We are also loving classroom themes that bring positivity and light like inspirational quotes or anti-bullying. Regardless of your preference, you’ll certainly love this roundup of classroom themes and decorating ideas.

Nature and Animal Classroom Themes

Check out our list of outdoorsy themes and then, if you’re still curious, see 14 Soothing Nature-Themed Classroom Ideas .

Jurassic Park/Dinosaur

Let’s face it, kids love dinosaurs. Regardless of whether they’ve seen the Jurassic Park movies, they will get a kick out of going back in history to a time when dinosaurs ruled the land.

Pick up a small tent and use it as the centerpiece of an amazing camping classroom. The tent itself doubles as a reading nook or calm-down corner .

See more: Brilliant Ideas for a Classroom Camping Theme

Cactus/Succulent/Plants

Succulents and cacti are super trendy right now, and they make really fun decorations for your classroom. Bonus points for keeping a few real plants alive on the windowsill!

See more: Super Sharp Cactus Classroom Theme Ideas

Whooo doesn’t love owls? This cool DIY reading nook is the perfect inspiration for an owl classroom theme. You can also make sweet owls out of paper lanterns to hang from the ceiling.

See more: Owl-Themed Classroom Ideas That Are a Real Hoot

Enchanted Forest

Whether you put a fairy-tale spin on it or just focus on the different woodland creatures, a forest theme is a fun and engaging way to dress up your learning space.

See more: Enchanting Forest-Theme Classroom Ideas

Hello, sunshine! This incredibly cheerful style is bright and happy without being too cute. Even if your classroom lacks windows , every day will feel like summer.

See more: Sunshine Classroom Theme Ideas

If you go for a jungle theme, you can include all sorts of fun animals like lions, elephants, and plenty of monkeys. Hang some faux vines from the ceiling for an extra cool touch.

See more: Wild and Crazy Jungle Classroom Theme Ideas

Eucalyptus is another plant that’s right on trend, and it has such a calming vibe. Plus, it’s the koala’s favorite food, so it gives you an excuse to make a koala your classroom mascot.

See more: Cute and Calming Eucalyptus Classroom Decor Ideas

Every day can feel like a vacation when you plan a beach theme. Tip: Shop end-of-summer sales for lots of decoration deals just in time for school to start!

See more: Sand-sational Beach-Themed Classroom Ideas

More Nature/Animal Theme Ideas

• Animal Prints
• National Parks
• Under the Sea

Sports Themes

Whether you choose a mix of sports or focus on one personal favorite, there are so many ways to incorporate this theme into your room. Go team!

• Board Games (Monopoly classroom theme is a teacher favorite!)
• eSports (Video Gaming)

You can also check out our All-Star Ideas for a Sports-Themed Classroom .

Food Themes

Is there any sweeter theme than donuts? Sprinkle your classroom with kindness and joy with these delightful decorations.

See more: Donuts Are the Sweetest Classroom Theme, and We’re Here to Prove It

More Food Classroom Themes

• Coffee Shop

Reading/Book Classroom Themes

Eric Carle books are a staple of childhood and for good reason, they combine delightful, easy to read stories with beautiful illustrations. His stories make for the perfect jumping off point for a classroom theme whether you are using large pom poms to assemble a very hungry caterpillar or adding suns and flowers to represent those in The Tiny Seed. There are a lot of great ideas to be found on this fun and engaging theme.

Mo Willems has so many beloved book characters like the pigeon from Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus and, of course, Piggy and Elephant. Places like Etsy have so many Mo Willems themed decals you can really get into plastering your classroom with everyone’s favorite friends.

More Reading Themes

• Chicka Chicka Boom Book
• Winnie the Pooh
• Pete the Cat
• Alice in Wonderland

Movie, Television, and Music Themes

Let your students walk the red carpet every single day with a star-studded Hollywood theme. Lights, camera, learning!

See more: Oscar-Worthy Hollywood Theme Classroom Ideas

More Movie, Television, and Music Themes

• Sesame Street
• Little Mermaid
• Finding Nemo
• Super Mario
• Mickey Mouse
• Rock and Roll

Color Classroom Themes

Glow in the dark.

Kids love all things glow-in-the-dark so why not try this fun theme for your classroom? You can get really creative with black lights and glow-in-the-dark paints for classroom signs and bulletin boards.

Rainbow or Boho Rainbow

This is actually a really easy theme, since all you need are lots of bright-colored decorations and school supplies. You’ll really appreciate the vivid hues when the darkest days of winter arrive.

See more: Rainbow Bulletin Board Ideas To Brighten Your Classroom

Bright Ideas for Dark Classrooms

If you love classroom glow days , why not bring more lights to your space year-round? It’s such an easy and inexpensive way to brighten up any room.

See more: Ways To Brighten Your Classroom During the Dreary Winter Months

More Color Themes

• Black and White

Seasonal Classroom Themes

If you like you change up your classroom themes throughout the year, consider doing it seasonally. You can also get creative by featuring summer themes during the winter when dark, gloomy days seem endless as a reminder that brighter days are ahead!

Travel Themes

World traveler.

Geography teachers aren’t the only ones who will love these travel-themed ideas. Hit the thrift store for old suitcases and globes to dress up your space.

See more: Globetrotting Travel Classroom Theme Ideas

To infinity and beyond! Their feet may be on the ground, but students’ imaginations can soar to space with this exciting theme.

See more: Out of This World Space-Themed Classroom Ideas

More Travel Themes

• Hot Air Balloon
• Around the World

STEM Themes

Periodic table on the ceiling? Why not?! A science theme encourages students to experiment, explore, and seek out new information.

See more: Best Science Classroom Decor Ideas

Need a new theme? Count on math to add in some fun! Math might not be everyone’s favorite subject, but unique classroom decorations can help kids see how important it really is.

See more: Math Bulletin Board Ideas That Make Learning Fun

More STEM Themes

• Construction

Even More Theme Ideas

Spy Classroom

Barnyard themes with piggies and moo cows are terrific for little ones. But when you’re ready for something a little more grown up, switch to farmhouse decor instead.

See more: Simple Ways To Bring Farmhouse Decor Into Your Classroo m

Make every student feel like they’ve got superpowers with this incredible theme. The time to be awesome is now.

See more: Pow! Superhero Classroom Theme Ideas

This is the kind of theme you can really use at any age. Students will get a kick out of seeing your face scattered around the room, especially when you use some of the sillier Bitmoji options.

See more: Super Creative Ways To Use Bitmojis in Your Classroom

Need an inexpensive way to add a little flair? Burlap is a budget fabric that provides a lot of texture and interest. Plus, it’s durable, so you know it will last from year to year.

See more: Budget-Friendly Burlap Decor Ideas to Dress up Your Classroom

Anti-Bullying

Want to promote an anti-bullying atmosphere? Use it as inspiration for classroom decor! The more kids see it, the more they’ll believe it.

See more: Anti-Bullying Posters, Decor, and Incentives You Can Buy on Amazon

Inspiring Quotes

Fill a big empty wall with some of your favorite quotes. This is one of the best ways to deal with cement block walls , whether you use paint or vinyl letters.

See more: Our All-Time Favorite Classroom Quotes

Take what you collect and turn it into classroom decorations! Just be careful—once kids realize you love something, they’ll likely bring you more and more for your collection.

See more: Cool, Cute (and Even a Little Crazy) Teacher Collections

Calming Classroom

Create a sense of calm with neutral colors and cozy touches like a big area rug. Keep clutter to a minimum, and don’t forget that empty spaces are restful for the eyes.

See more: Ways To Bring Some Calm to Your Classroom Decor This Year

Welcome the littlest learners with bright colors and over-the-top decorations that will delight all their senses. Include lots of interactive elements around the room, and don’t forget plenty of dress-up clothes so kids can get into the spirit of things.

See more: Preschool Classroom Themes Perfect for Little Learners

Middle School

Middle school is a time to grow up a bit, so avoid overly cutesy classroom themes. Instead, look for ways to make the environment comfortable, while also including inspirational decor that supports the subject/s you teach.

See more: Fabulous Middle School Classroom Decorating Ideas

High School

Personalized touches make a classroom more welcoming for kids of any age. Think about how you can create a comfortable space to support students while they learn.

See more: Creative Decorating Ideas for High School Classrooms

Some teachers and students thrive best when you keep distractions to a minimum. You can still make your room a comfortable and engaging place to learn, with a lot less effort.

See more: A Minimalist’s Guide to Classroom Design

Additional Classroom Themes to Consider

• Smiley Face

Classroom themes usually last all year, but you’ll still need to change out your bulletin boards. See Interactive Bulletin Boards To Engage Students at Every Level .

Plus, get all the latest teaching news and ideas when you sign up for our free newsletters , you might also like.

Bring the Light to Your Classroom With These 12 Sunshine Classroom Theme Ideas

Trend Alert: Bright Colors, Rainbows, and Sunshine! Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Banita Creek Hall seeks public event space using Nacogdoches County property

NACOGDOCHES, Texas (KTRE) - In Nacogdoches, Banita Creek Hall’s owner hopes to create more space for future music events.

On Wednesday, owner Kevin White proposed to county commissioners the possibility of combining parking lots to create an event space.

Banita Creek Hall hosts an average of 45 live events a year. For larger gatherings, White said they have rented space from the county’s expo center or the coliseum at Stephen F. Austin State University. However, he told commissioners it wasn’t until this last year he ran into multiple schedule conflicts.

“It’s booked a lot. There are a lot of events out there, so it becomes hard for us to match an artist with a date. It’s usually they’re calling us, ‘Hey, we’re coming through Texas, would you like to do a show?” explained White.

White proposed to commissioners to rent out the parking area, behind the county’s annex building as a public event space.

With the additional space, he was told by the city’s fire department it has a capacity of 2,500 people.

Commissioner Robin Dawley had concerns about where people would park if an event were to take place.

There are 60 parking spots with the dance hall’s and county’s combined.

“We all share parking, all other public parking is shared. People will park where they park,” White said.

Commissioners suggested using Festival Park, in which White explained the ground is too soft and power sources are incompatible with large sound equipment.

White believes by renting out the additional parking area, it would only be used on weekends, and he said, ‘we don’t have to close any streets in order to do this. We can use the buildings as a natural barrier, with limited fencing.”

No action was taken at the workshop.

A Groundbreaking Scientific Discovery Just Gave Humanity the Keys to Interstellar Travel

In a first, this warp drive actually obeys the laws of physics.

If a superluminal—meaning faster than the speed of light—warp drive like Alcubierre’s worked, it would revolutionize humanity’s endeavors across the universe , allowing us, perhaps, to reach Alpha Centauri, our closest star system, in days or weeks even though it’s four light years away.

However, the Alcubierre drive has a glaring problem: the force behind its operation, called “negative energy,” involves exotic particles—hypothetical matter that, as far as we know, doesn’t exist in our universe. Described only in mathematical terms, exotic particles act in unexpected ways, like having negative mass and working in opposition to gravity (in fact, it has “anti-gravity”). For the past 30 years, scientists have been publishing research that chips away at the inherent hurdles to light speed revealed in Alcubierre’s foundational 1994 article published in the peer-reviewed journal Classical and Quantum Gravity .

Now, researchers at the New York City-based think tank Applied Physics believe they’ve found a creative new approach to solving the warp drive’s fundamental roadblock. Along with colleagues from other institutions, the team envisioned a “positive energy” system that doesn’t violate the known laws of physics . It’s a game-changer, say two of the study’s authors: Gianni Martire, CEO of Applied Physics, and Jared Fuchs, Ph.D., a senior scientist there. Their work, also published in Classical and Quantum Gravity in late April, could be the first chapter in the manual for interstellar spaceflight.

POSITIVE ENERGY MAKES all the difference. Imagine you are an astronaut in space, pushing a tennis ball away from you. Instead of moving away, the ball pushes back, to the point that it would “take your hand off” if you applied enough pushing force, Martire tells Popular Mechanics . That’s a sign of negative energy, and, though the Alcubierre drive design requires it, there’s no way to harness it.

Instead, regular old positive energy is more feasible for constructing the “ warp bubble .” As its name suggests, it’s a spherical structure that surrounds and encloses space for a passenger ship using a shell of regular—but incredibly dense—matter. The bubble propels the spaceship using the powerful gravity of the shell, but without causing the passengers to feel any acceleration. “An elevator ride would be more eventful,” Martire says.

That’s because the density of the shell, as well as the pressure it exerts on the interior, is controlled carefully, Fuchs tells Popular Mechanics . Nothing can travel faster than the speed of light, according to the gravity-bound principles of Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity . So the bubble is designed such that observers within their local spacetime environment—inside the bubble—experience normal movement in time. Simultaneously, the bubble itself compresses the spacetime in front of the ship and expands it behind the ship, ferrying itself and the contained craft incredibly fast. The walls of the bubble generate the necessary momentum, akin to the momentum of balls rolling, Fuchs explains. “It’s the movement of the matter in the walls that actually creates the effect for passengers on the inside.”

Building on its 2021 paper published in Classical and Quantum Gravity —which details the same researchers’ earlier work on physical warp drives—the team was able to model the complexity of the system using its own computational program, Warp Factory. This toolkit for modeling warp drive spacetimes allows researchers to evaluate Einstein’s field equations and compute the energy conditions required for various warp drive geometries. Anyone can download and use it for free . These experiments led to what Fuchs calls a mini model, the first general model of a positive-energy warp drive. Their past work also demonstrated that the amount of energy a warp bubble requires depends on the shape of the bubble; for example, the flatter the bubble in the direction of travel, the less energy it needs.

THIS LATEST ADVANCEMENT suggests fresh possibilities for studying warp travel design, Erik Lentz, Ph.D., tells Popular Mechanics . In his current position as a staff physicist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Washington, Lentz contributes to research on dark matter detection and quantum information science research. His independent research in warp drive theory also aims to be grounded in conventional physics while reimagining the shape of warped space. The topic needs to overcome many practical hurdles, he says.

Controlling warp bubbles requires a great deal of coordination because they involve enormous amounts of matter and energy to keep the passengers safe and with a similar passage of time as the destination. “We could just as well engineer spacetime where time passes much differently inside [the passenger compartment] than outside. We could miss our appointment at Proxima Centauri if we aren’t careful,” Lentz says. “That is still a risk if we are traveling less than the speed of light.” Communication between people inside the bubble and outside could also become distorted as it passes through the curvature of warped space, he adds.

While Applied Physics’ current solution requires a warp drive that travels below the speed of light, the model still needs to plug in a mass equivalent to about two Jupiters. Otherwise, it will never achieve the gravitational force and momentum high enough to cause a meaningful warp effect. But no one knows what the source of this mass could be—not yet, at least. Some research suggests that if we could somehow harness dark matter , we could use it for light-speed travel, but Fuchs and Martire are doubtful, since it’s currently a big mystery (and an exotic particle).

Despite the many problems scientists still need to solve to build a working warp drive, the Applied Physics team claims its model should eventually get closer to light speed. And even if a feasible model remains below the speed of light, it’s a vast improvement over today’s technology. For example, traveling at even half the speed of light to Alpha Centauri would take nine years. In stark contrast, our fastest spacecraft, Voyager 1—currently traveling at 38,000 miles per hour—would take 75,000 years to reach our closest neighboring star system.

Of course, as you approach the actual speed of light, things get truly weird, according to the principles of Einstein’s special relativity . The mass of an object moving faster and faster would increase infinitely, eventually requiring an infinite amount of energy to maintain its speed.

“That’s the chief limitation and key challenge we have to overcome—how can we have all this matter in our [bubble], but not at such a scale that we can never even put it together?” Martire says. It’s possible the answer lies in condensed matter physics, he adds. This branch of physics deals particularly with the forces between atoms and electrons in matter. It has already proven fundamental to several of our current technologies, such as transistors, solid-state lasers, and magnetic storage media.

The other big issue is that current models allow a stable warp bubble, but only for a constant velocity. Scientists still need to figure out how to design an initial acceleration. On the other end of the journey, how will the ship slow down and stop? “It’s like trying to grasp the automobile for the first time,” Martire says. “We don’t have an engine just yet, but we see the light at the end of the tunnel.” Warp drive technology is at the stage of 1882 car technology, he says: when automobile travel was possible, but it still looked like a hard, hard problem.

The Applied Physics team believes future innovations in warp travel are inevitable. The general positive energy model is a first step. Besides, you don’t need to zoom at light speed to achieve distances that today are just a dream, Martire says. “Humanity is officially, mathematically, on an interstellar track.”

Before joining Popular Mechanics , Manasee Wagh worked as a newspaper reporter, a science journalist, a tech writer, and a computer engineer. She’s always looking for ways to combine the three greatest joys in her life: science, travel, and food.

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} Physics .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

The Source of All Consciousness May Be Black Holes

Immortality Is Impossible Until We Beat Physics

How a Lunar Supercollider Could Upend Physics

Is Consciousness Everywhere All at Once?

One Particle Could Shatter Our Concept of Reality

Do Black Holes Die?

Are Multiverse Films Like ‘The Flash’ Realistic?

Why Time Reflections Are a ‘Holy Grail’ in Physics

Why Our Existence Always Contains Some Uncertainty

Copies of You Could Live Inside Quantum Computers

There’s an ‘Anti-Universe’ Going Backward in Time

Luke Bryan causes fan frenzy at CMA Fest

The country superstar made a surprise appearance outside his Nashville restaurant

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Luke Bryan caused a fan frenzy Friday in Nashville.

In town for CMA Fest, the country superstar and "American Idol" judge made a surprise appearance outside his restaurant, Luke's 32 Bridge, on Broadway.

Fans were elated to see Bryan. "Hold on. Let me take it all in!" he said, once the cheering finally died down.

As he made the rounds, Bryan took photos, handed out merchandise and conversed with the fans. As a part of his new fashion collaboration with Jockey, a few lucky people even got to take home some free swag!

Luke Bryan is one of many performers in Nashville for CMA Fest, a four-day country music festival that draws in country music fans from all over the world.

A three-hour primetime concert special hosted by Jelly Roll and Ashley McBryde will air Tuesday, June 25, at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.

Related Topics

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
• SYNERGY CMA AWARDS
• AMERICAN IDOL
• CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL

Dolly Parton wants to be a part of Jennifer Aniston's '9 to 5' remake

Joey, Kelsey and Bachelor Nation head to CMA Fest!

CMA Fest takes over Nashville with today's hottest country music stars

'CMA Fest' concert special to air June 25 on ABC

Top stories.

Porch pirate swipes package before delivery driver even leaves: VIDEO

Dr Pepper passes Pepsi as second biggest soda brand

Lionel Messi draws large crowds to Soldier Field for soccer match

• 2 hours ago

Several NU graduates walk out of United Center during commencement

At least 10 injured in rooftop party shooting near UW-Madison: police

At least 33 shot, 5 fatally, in Chicago weekend shootings: CPD

Caitlin Clark hopes to make USA Olympic team one day: 'It's a dream'

Person fatally shot in Woodlawn: CPD

Services & Software

Get Microsoft's upgraded Pro OS for a small fraction of the regular price, but only while the sale lasts.

Our Top Picks

From VPNs to playlists for your pup, here’re all the best services and software of 2023.

Latest Stories

We help you decide which services to keep, try or cancel.

NBA Finals 2024: How to Watch, Stream Mavericks vs. Celtics Game 2 Tonight on ABC

France vs. Canada Livestream: How to Watch International Friendly Soccer From Anywhere

Act Fast to Snag a Lifetime License to Microsoft Visual Studio Professional for $460 Off

Best vpn for streaming in 2024.

T20 Cricket World Cup Livestream: How to Watch India vs. Pakistan From Anywhere

French Open Men's Final 2024: How to Watch, Stream Zverev vs. Alcaraz From Anywhere

Today's Wordle Hints and Answer: Help for June 9, #1086

Today's NYT Connections Hints and Answers: Help for June 9, #364

The Best Horror Films on Prime Video to Watch Right Now

Use the Netflix Secret Menu for a Perfectly Personalized Queue

Press Herald

Account Subscription: ACTIVE

Questions about your account? Our customer service team can be reached at [email protected] during business hours at (207) 791-6000 .

• Local & State

Resurgam festival, a massive yard sale and more things to do this weekend

Comedian Dave Attell is in town, Zephyr Ice is serving up cool treats and food trucks are out in force (there's an app that will tell you where).

You are able to gift 5 more articles this month.

Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. Learn more .

With a Press Herald subscription, you can gift 5 articles each month.

It looks like you do not have any active subscriptions. To get one, go to the subscriptions page .

Loading....

We’re not entirely sure how the weekend weather is going to shake out, but either way there’s a whole lot going on, so let’s get to it.

Maine Roller Derby skaters competing at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. Photo by Jim Vernier

On Saturday and Sunday, Maine Roller Derby’s first international tournament happens at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. There will be several exciting flat-track bouts, and if you’re a Mainer, tickets are half off.

Get a discount on tickets to Maine Roller Derby’s international tournament

Max Abraham runs through Moon Tide Park while performing with the band Corpus Chicanery at last year’s Resurgam festival. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

The Resurgam Music and Arts Festival is Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Ocean Gateway marine terminal and surrounding areas. The list of performers is about 17 miles long and includes Oshima Brothers Band and professional hula hoop and circus artist Nettie Loops.

Resurgam festival returns this weekend with music, arts and more

Local musician Toby McAllister, pictured here at The Press Room in Portsmouth, would of course play at a local venue on his perfect day. Photo by Corey Fitzgerald and courtesy of Toby McAllister

Another musician you can see at Resurgam is Toby McAllister from Sparks The Rescue. McAllister unpacked his perfect Maine day for us, and it includes a hike in Grafton Notch and a stop at Puzzle Mountain Bakery in Newry for cookies.

My Perfect Day: Hiking Old Speck, eating tacos and sweets, playing a show – for musician Toby McAllister, it all strikes a chord

Comic Dave Attell plays the State Theatre in Portland, June 8. Photo courtesy of the State Theatre

There’s plenty else cooking this weekend , including Yoga in the Park on Saturday and the Walk the Working Waterfront tour. Both are in Portland. Or you can shop till you drop at Maine’s Ultimate Spring Yard Sale Saturday at Cumberland Fairgrounds. Need a few laughs? Grab a ticket to see comic Dave Attell at the State Theatre Saturday.

Waterfront tour, giant yard sale, comic Dave Attell

Zephyr proudly tells its customers that everything is made in house with real fruit and no dyes. Photo by Megan Gray

Satisfy your sweet tooth with something a little different this weekend. Zephyr Ice in Portland serves shaved ice atop a scoop of regular or vegan ice cream. Choose from a variety of syrup flavors, all made in-house with real fruit.

For cool, customizable treats, breeze on in to Zephyr Ice

Mainely Burgers food truck. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Should you fancy a food truck fix, check out our massive, always growing food truck guide and get busy chowing down.

A guide to 87 food trucks rolling through Maine

A Foodtruckalico Instagram post featuring the Ugly Dumpling food truck. Photo by Justin Velgos

For even more food truck fodder, we suggest heading to Food Truckalico on Instagram . A couple of times a week, the account shares details about where and when you can find trucks in the Portland area.

Follow the food trucks with Food Truckalico on Instagram

A newspaper article about a Comegato sighting from web series “Tracking the Comegato.” Photo courtesy of Kate Kaminski

If the weather does indeed relegate you to the indoors, curl up on the couch and fire up the new web series “Tracking the Comegato” about a beastly human-weasel hybrid that may or may not exist.

Could this human-weasel hybrid from Maine join the ranks of Bigfoot?

Success. Please wait for the page to reload. If the page does not reload within 5 seconds, please refresh the page.

Enter your email and password to access comments.

Forgot Password?

Don't have a commenting profile? Create one.

Hi, to comment on stories you must create a commenting profile . This profile is in addition to your subscription and website login. Already have a commenting profile? Login .

Invalid username/password.

Please check your email to confirm and complete your registration.

Create a commenting profile by providing an email address, password and display name. You will receive an email to complete the registration. Please note the display name will appear on screen when you participate.

Already registered? Log in to join the discussion.

Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why .

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.

Send questions/comments to the editors.

Member Log In

Please enter your username and password below. Already a subscriber but don't have one? Click here .

Not a subscriber? Click here to see your options