Put away your sunglasses, it’s safe to look. The fourth piece in artist Luke Jerram’s stunning astronomical works, Helios is a seven-metre diameter replica of our glorious and life-affirming sun. The installation is a fusion of animated lighting, solar imagery provided by Astrophotographer Dr. Stuart Green and NASA with guidance from solar scientist, Professor Lucie Green of University College London, and a specially created sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson.

Helios, in ancient Greek mythology, is the god who personifies the sun, who drove a four-horse chariot across the sky each day, giving the Earth its hours and seasons.

Luke Jerram’s multidisciplinary practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live arts projects. In 2019 he was elected Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. His Gaia, a replica of the Earth, was a wildly popular feature at WOMADelaide 2023.

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