About this Event
Helios is a new touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram. Measuring seven metres in diameter, the artwork features 72dpi detailed imagery* of the Sun’s surface. At an approximate scale of 1:200 million, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 2000km of the Sun’s surface.
It is very dangerous to look at the Sun directly as it can damage our eyesight, so Helios provides a safe opportunity for the public to get up close to, and inspect its extraordinarily detailed surface, including sunspots, spicules and filaments. The sculpture also features the source of the solar flares which caused the Northern lights to be visible from the UK in May 2024.
The installation is a fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially created surround sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson.
Helios, in ancient Greek mythology, is the god who personifies the Sun. He drove a four-horse chariot across the sky each day, giving the earth its hours and seasons.
Opening hours
Mondays: 12-5pm (last entry 4.30pm). Monday mornings may open up closer to the time
Tuesdays - Saturdays: 10am - 5pm (last entry 4.30pm)
Sundays: 12.30-3pm (last entry 2pm)
Please note, on some days, the soundtrack might be turned off at 4pm due to choir rehearsals (2pm on Sundays).
Dogs on leads welcome.
*The imagery for the artwork has been compiled using photographs of the Sun provided by Astrophotographer Dr Stuart Green (taken between May 2018 to June 2024) and NASA observations of the Sun, with guidance from solar scientist, Professor Lucie Green of University College London (UCL).
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Southwell Minster, Church Street, Southwell, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00 to GBP 5.00
