During the 1980s, James Turrell continued to develop his pioneering work with light and space, pushing the boundaries of visual perception and art. While specific details about each of his projects from the 1980s might not be as widely documented as his work from other decades, it is known that Turrell's artistic practice during this time remained focused on exploring the sensory effects of light and the viewer's experience of space. His work from this period contributed to his reputation as a key figure in the Southern California Light and Space movement that began in the 1960s and 70s​ (The Art Story)​. One of the hallmarks of Turrell's work is the "skyspace," a concept he has developed in numerous iterations around the world. Skyspaces are architectural interventions that frame the sky as viewed from a specifically designed viewing chamber, often transforming the viewer's perception of the sky's color and form. Although skyspaces were developed over many years, the principles behind them reflect the innovative approaches to light and space Turrell was exploring in the 1980s and beyond​ (Encyclopedia Britannica)​. Roden Crater, Turrell's most ambitious project, exemplifies his lifelong investigation into the celestial phenomena and human perception, although it began in the late 1970s and continues to this day. Situated near the Grand Canyon and Arizona’s Painted Desert, Roden Crater transforms an extinct volcano into a massive naked-eye observatory. Through this project, Turrell aims to create a space where the heavens are brought down to earth, linking human experience with the movements of planets and distant galaxies​ (Art21)​. Turrell's art in the 1980s and his overall career reflect a deep interest in how light affects human perception and how spaces can be designed to alter our sensory experiences. His work from this period, as throughout his career, invites viewers into a contemplative interaction with the phenomena of light, encouraging a meditative state that connects the earthly with the cosmic.