Helios

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.

* 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).

Booking online in advance is recommended but not essential, but during busy times those looking to pay on the door (from The Cathedral Shop about 50m away) may have to wait and some sessions will inevitably sell out in advance.

Last entry, 30 minutes before the end of each day. Dogs on leads welcome.

Dates and events

Public display
Wednesday 29 July - Saturday 15 August 2026. Tickets £5/£3 (U5s free)
Tickets available here or from The Cathedral Shop (about 50m before you get to the Minster)

Morning sunrise Pilates with instructor Kathryn Flinn (9-9.45am), £10, must be booked in advance.
Entry for this session will be via the south door opposite the Archbishop's Palace
Dates: Wednesday 5 August, Thursday 6 August, Wednesday 12 August, Thursday 13 August
Tickets available here

Photography display
There will also be a photography display (by acclaimed Nottinghamshire photographer Martin Leighton) exploring the theme of light which will be on show throughout the Helios exhibition. All photographs are available to purchase - please make a note of the piece you would like and purchase from the Cathedral Shop where you will be given a receipt to then collect your new photograph from the Minster.

Children's activity mornings
On 29 July, 5 & 11 August, there will be special craft and children's activities to take part in. Drop in between 10am - 12pm. Admission by purchase of Helios ticket.

Opening hours
Mondays- Saturdays: 10am - 5pm (last entry 4.30pm)
Sundays: 12.30-3pm (last entry 2.30pm)

Please note, on some days, the soundtrack might be turned off at 4pm due to choir rehearsals (2pm on Sundays), and 3pm on Wednesday 5 August.

Prices
Adults £5
U16s £3
U5s free

This event raises important funds for Southwell Minster, registered charity number 1207138

About the aritst
Luke Jerram’s multidisciplinary practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live arts projects. Living in the UK but working internationally since 1997, Jerram has created a number of extraordinary art projects which have excited and inspired people around the globe. In 2019 Luke Jerram was elected Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Helios follows on from Luke’s other astronomical artworks Museum of the Moon, Gaia, and Mars.

Helios has been co-commissioned by National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London.