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 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

Special preview night
Tuesday 28 July, 7pm, tickets £12/£6, includes complimentary drink on arrival
Tickets available here

Public display
Wednesday 29 July - Saturday 15 August 2026, tickets £5/£3
Tickets available here

On the opening day, Wednesday 29 July, the Nottingham Astronomical Society will be supporting the Helios exhibition. Weather permitting, between 10am and 2pm, members of the society will be offering live views of the Sun through special solar telescopes situated outside the south door of the Minster. Visitors will have the opportunity to ask the astronomers questions about the sun so do come along!

As part of our Cathedral Lecture Series, there is also a special talk from Canon Alison Milbank on Tuesday 4 August at 2.30pm - click here for more

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)

Prices
Adults £5
U16s £3
U5s free

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: Thursday 6 August, Wednesday 12 August, Thursday 13 August
Tickets available here

There will also be a photography display exploring the theme of light which will be on show throughout the Helios exhibition.

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.