NASA to Send Song by Jon Hopkins and Ólafur Arnalds' to the Moon

When NASA envisions art for space, it aims to bridge worlds.

Enter Jon Hopkins and Ólafur Arnalds, whose new track, "Forever Held," was inspired by letters from NASA creative director Erica Bernhard. Described as "love letters from Earth to space," Bernhard's writings reflect humanity's deep-rooted connection to the cosmos, a theme brought vividly to life by the musicians.

Awash in Arnalds' haunting strings, the piece is a work of tranquil, cinematic resonance that speaks to Earth's "fragility and power," Hopkins said. Bernhard sees the renowned electronic music producer's work as a soundscape that bridges "the awe and wonder of space" with "the rhythms of life on Earth," creating a journey that prompts listeners to reflect on humanity's cosmic role.

Adding a unique twist, "Forever Held" is part of NASA's "Space for Earth" experience in Washington, DC, a first-of-its-kind exhibit where Earth is viewed through the eyes of agency's satellites. Both Bernhard's letters and stills from her video for the song will accompany it as it travels to the lunar surface, a symbolic expression of humankind’s enduring desire to reach beyond our home planet.

Before its lunar mission, "Forever Held" has already had an earthly debut thanks to Coldplay, who recently used the song to open their latest album, Moon Music. You can listen to the full composition below.

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