Representing the unknown : a comparative study of Chesley Bonestell and David Kipping's representations of outer space

Abstract

The representation of space has long captivated the public, artists, and scientists alike, inspiring them to envision the uncharted expanses beyond our planet and make representations of the cosmic unknown. Chesley Bonestell, a pioneer of space art, enthralled audiences with his vivid paintings of distant worlds, while David Kipping, a contemporary astronomer, harnesses YouTube to transport viewers into speculative realms. Despite their differing mediums, both Bonestell and Kipping expand our understanding of outer space through cosmological representations that bridge the gap between naked-eye observation and advanced technological mediation. By examining how scientific inquiry and artistic creativity intersect, this study compares their works, explores their creations aligned with advancements in observational technology – particularly through the lens of Immanuel Kant and Edmund Burke’s sublime – in the broader context of astronomy and cosmology.