The new statue atop the Capitol in Topeka is well worth the effort to get it on display.

It took a lot of doing, and many individuals and agencies came under fire for their efforts to bring the project to fruition. But most people who drive through Topeka on a clear night and see the “Ad Astra” statue shooting for the stars atop the state’s Capitol are inclined to agree it was all worth it.

There is a light green-white patina fostered by the spotlighting of the American Indian figure that makes a big impression from any angle the viewer might choose. The first reaction is surprise, then delight, then pride that Kansas is represented by such an artistic and symbolic rendering. The amber aircraft warnings that blink below the statue tend to distract for a second or two.

But when one can overcome that and focus on the statue and how it represents the state’s journey to the stars through difficulties, including those of the present, the experience becomes inspiring and pleasant.

It is well worth traveling around the Capitol building and viewing “Ad Astra” from a number of points on the compass. Every time, there is a different look, and it is difficult to define a special one, although most have choices there.

There was substantial controversy about the statue in the first place and how much it would cost the state to mount it on the capitol during a time of severe financial strain. Even at the last minute, it did not go into place easily when bolt and bolt-holes did not quite line up. But the end result is likely to be a joy to behold for anyone familiar with good art and the state’s heritage.

How appropriate that “Ad Astra” was in place and on display for the inauguration ceremonies this week for Gov. Kathleen Sebelius. Let us hope the statue helps inspire officials to great feats in righting a ship of state