This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.
This stunning installation will be open from 27 December 2025 - 25 January 2026.
Timed Entry Tickets:
- Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.
- Each ticket has a start time, and each visit is for 30 minutes.
- There are timed tickets available throughout the day from 10:15am to 3:15pm - you can select the time of your visit when you book your free ticket.
- The maximum number of tickets per booking is 10 so we can welcome as many visitors as possible, (if you book more than 10 we retain the right to cancel your tickets and will contact you).
Admission is free, but booking is essential. Donations welcome to help us bring more inspiring exhibitions and events.
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Please note there will be a photographer at some sessions.
If you would be interested in a relaxed session please contact us on museum@stalbans.gov.uk
About Helios + the Artist
Measuring six metres in diameter, the artwork features 72dpi detailed imagery* of the Sun’s surface. At an approximate scale of 1:230 million, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 2300km 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).
Helios has been co-commissioned by National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London.
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.
Learn more at: my-helios.org
#Helios
Image taken at Bath Assembly Rooms by the National Trust. Photographer James Dobson
With thanks to the Arts Council England for funding for Helios at St Albans Museum + Gallery
