Plans for lunar clock

A group of designers and engineers are proposing to build the world’s first tidal powered moon clock on the banks of the Thames as a waterside landmark and public sculpture.

The project, called Aluna, is a 40m wide, five storey high structure made up of three concentric translucent recycled glass rings. By looking at how each ring is illuminated, you can follow the moon’s movements, its phase and the ebb and flow of the tides. This animation of light will be powered using the tides via turbines, so will be environmentally friendly.

For witches, who follow the cycles of the moon in their spirituality and use it as a timing for rituals, this could be a useful as well as beautiful addition to London's landmarks.

The Aluna website says: "Aluna unites art, science and spirituality and is an ever-changing reminder of the natural cycles that have shaped our past and will determine our future."

To get the project off the ground, the Aluna team needs to raise £5m.

The designers have been working with the Deputy Mayor of London Nicky Gavron's Office to garner support and funding for the development of Aluna at a site on the River Thames in East London, but they also want people to sign a petition on their website to show support for the project.

Visit: http://www.alunatime.org/index.htm

Picture: copyright Aluna Limited, image by Mark Glean