Visitors to the Ickworth Estate will get to look directly at the sun when a giant sculpture arrives as part of a national tour.
Created by Luke Jerram, the artist behind exhibitions of the moon and earth, the sculpture named Helios is coming to the National Trust property, near Bury St Edmunds, in May.
The sculpture which measures 7-metres in diameter will include the sound of the sun captured by NASA.
Helios is set to wow visitors at the Ickworth Estate, near Bury St Edmunds. Picture: James Dobson – National Trust Images
Adrian Shepherd, general manager of the Ickworth Estate, said: “Placed directly in front of the Rotunda, Helios will be in a truly iconic setting from which we can share its brilliance with our visitors.
“In a year when we will be sharing the stories of Ickworth’s involvement on the world stage, it’s exciting to take the next step and travel across the universe by welcoming Helios to Ickworth.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors in early May to experience this magical event.”
Artist Luke Jerram with Helios. Picture: James Dobson – National Trust ImagesHelios at the Bath Assembly Rooms. Picture: James Dobson – National Trust Images
Mr Jerram said: ‘We all know that it is very dangerous to look directly at the sun, as it can damage our eyesight.
“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 artist, who is an elected Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, added: “The Northern Lights are one of the greatest wonders and displays of art in the natural world.
Helios will be touring the country starting its journey at the Bath Assembly Rooms this month. Picture: James Dobson – National Trust ImagesHelios is a giant sculpture of the sun. Picture: James Dobson – National Trust Images
“I’ve incorporated the source of the solar flares which caused this phenomenon to be visible over the UK in May 2024.”
Visitors to the Ickworth Estate will be able to see Helios between May 2 to May 5 and May 8 to May 11, opening times will be shared in due course.