The Sun Will Come out tomorrow at National Museum Cardiff

Following the huge success of Museum of the Moon earlier this year, artist Luke Jerram returns to National Museum Cardiff with Helios, a breath taking illuminated sculpture of the Sun created using detailed NASA imagery.

Arriving just weeks before this summer’s rare solar eclipse on 12 August, Helios offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the star at the centre of our lives. Accompanied by an immersive soundscape, the installation transforms the Sun into a breath taking experience, inviting visitors to pause, look up and see something familiar with fresh eyes.

‘After seeing how much people loved Museum of the Moon, we’re delighted to welcome visitors back for something just as magical,’ said Mared Maggs, Head of National Museum Cardiff. ‘Helios has a real sense of warmth and renewal and feels like the perfect way to welcome the summer months. It’s a brilliant, free experience for families during the school holidays.’

Alongside the installation, the Museum has created a packed summer programme for families, with special events, hands-on activities and unique experiences designed to inspire curiosity about the Sun and our place in the universe. Adults can also experience Helios in new ways through a series of evening events and wellbeing sessions. Highlights include:

• Science of the Sun with Jon Chase – science communicator, rapper and children’s presenter Jon Chase explores the wonders of our nearest star through an engaging mix of science, storytelling and music.
• Museum Sleepover Under Helios – a special after-hours opening inspired by this summer’s rare solar eclipse, allowing visitors to experience Helios in a unique evening atmosphere.
• Solar Eclipse Late Night Opening – a special after-hours opportunity to experience Helios in a unique evening atmosphere.
• Sunset Yoga sessions with Eleri Morgan – a chance to pause and wind down in a very special yoga session, beneath the majesty of Helios.
• Free activities in our Clore Discovery Centre including Summer Trails and make your own solar eclipse viewer.

Artist Luke Jerram said: ‘It was wonderful to share the Moon with Cardiff earlier this year, and I’m delighted to return with the Sun. Helios gives visitors the chance to experience something warm, bright and full of detail.

Entry to National Museum Cardiff is free, and visitors are encouraged to book ahead to receive updates on summer events and activities. For more information, visit  www.museum.wales/cardiff/whatson/12934/Helios/

Helios is part of Haf o Hwyl (Summer of Fun), Amgueddfa Cymru’s summer programme of events, activities and experiences across its seven national museums. With free entry to all museums, visitors can explore inspiring galleries, take part in hands-on activities, enjoy outdoor spaces and discover something new throughout the summer, whether visiting with family and friends or enjoying a day out on their own.

Amgueddfa Cymru’s exhibitions and public engagement programme is made possible thanks to players of Postcode Lottery.