In the 2000s, James Turrell's artistic exploration of light and space continued to evolve, with significant projects that further cemented his position as a pivotal figure in contemporary art. This period was marked by the continuation of his ambitious Roden Crater project, the development of new Skyspaces, and installations that pushed the boundaries of sensory perception and viewer experience. One of the hallmark projects of this decade was the Roden Crater, located outside Flagstaff, Arizona. Turrell has spent decades transforming this extinct cinder cone volcano into a massive observatory designed for the naked-eye viewing of celestial phenomena. The project involved moving tons of dirt and creating tunnels and apertures, aiming to align the visitor with celestial events. Although the completion date has been pushed back multiple times, the Roden Crater remains a testament to Turrell's dedication to blending art, landscape, and the cosmos​ (Wikipedia)​. The 2000s also saw Turrell expanding his Skyspaces series, enclosed rooms with an opening in the roof that frames the sky, altering the viewer's perception of the heavens. These works are designed to mediate the flow of light from outside, challenging the viewer's perception of space and light. Turrell's Skyspaces have been installed worldwide, from the Live Oak Friends Meeting House in Houston, Texas, to more remote locations, engaging viewers in a contemplative interaction with the sky above​ (Art21)​​ (Wikipedia)​. Turrell's work during this period was not just limited to large-scale environmental projects. He continued to explore the sensory and perceptual possibilities of light in more intimate settings. For instance, his "Perceptual Cells" series, including "Light Reignfall," offers immersive experiences that play with the viewer's sense of space and perception. Installed at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, "Light Reignfall" is a spherical structure where viewers experience a light show that challenges the boundaries between seeing and sensing​ (The Art Story)​. Moreover, Turrell's "Twilight Epiphany" Skyspace, built on the Rice University campus, combines architectural beauty with the natural spectacle of sunrise and sunset, enhancing the viewer's perception of natural light through a meticulously programmed LED light show. This work exemplifies Turrell's interest in creating spaces that facilitate a deeper awareness of light and its impact on our perception​ (The Art Story)​. Throughout the 2000s, James Turrell continued to explore the nuances of light and space, inviting viewers to engage in deeply personal and communal experiences of seeing. His works from this period reflect a profound interest in the ways that light can shape our understanding of space and our place within it. By blending art, science, and architecture, Turrell has created a unique body of work that challenges and expands the boundaries of contemporary art.