A spectacular seven-metre model of the sun is set to light up Derby Cathedral this October marking the start of our centenary celebrations!
Internationally acclaimed artist Luke Jerram will bring his latest touring installation, Helios, to the city from October 20 to 31, giving visitors the chance to get up close to a breathtaking recreation of the sun.
The immersive artwork combines art, science and sound to reveal the extraordinary detail of our nearest star, featuring imagery created from NASA observations and photographs captured by astrophotographer Dr Stuart Green and a range of interactive activities linked to the installation will be available for Key Stage 1 and 2 schoolchildren, as well as visitors of all ages.
The Cathedral will remain open for worship throughout the exhibition, with services continuing as normal as often as possible.
Tuesday 20 October: 10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday 21 October: 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday 22 October: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday 23 October: 10:00 – 17:00 (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)
Saturday 24 October: 10:00 – 17:00 (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)
Sunday 25 October: 12:00 – 16:30
Monday 26 October: 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday 27 October: 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday 28 October: 09:00 – 17:00 (Sinfonia Viva concert 7pm: Book your tickets here)
Thursday 29 October: 09:00 – 16:00
Friday 30 October: 10:00 – 17:00 (Late night opening 18:00 – 22:00 – Book your ticket here)
Saturday 31 October: 09:00 – 20:00
For a truly unforgettable experience, visit Helios after dark and see the artwork in a new light.
During the exhibition, Derby Cathedral will remain open late on Friday and Saturday evenings, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the warmth and glow of the sun long after sunset. These special evenings will also feature a licensed bar, relaxed seating areas, and live music, creating a unique and atmospheric setting to experience the installation.
*artists for live music to be confirmed
Special evening viewings will run on:
Friday 23 October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm) Artist: Holly Rose
Saturday 24 October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm)
Friday 30 October 2026: 6pm-10pm (last entry 9pm)
After a summer of record-breaking heatwaves, followed by the recent torrential rains, how do our deepest beliefs compel us to act? The intense summer heat and heavy downpours are a stark reminder that the climate crisis is here.
Join us at Derby Cathedral during the Helios installation to explore how our faiths give us the tools to respond to climate justice, featuring two distinct lenses:
The Christian Perspective by The Revd Prof Charlotte Sleigh: The Biblical teaching about caring for God’s creation and protecting our vulnerable neighbours.
The Muslim Perspective by Dr Ali Akbar: Honouring the sacred trust (Khalifa) to restore Earth’s balance.
The Revd Prof Charlotte Sleigh
Dr Ali Akbar
Discover a variety of ways to engage with Helios, from family-friendly activities and inspiring talks to live music performances. With something for all ages and interests, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the exhibition.
Full programme of events coming soon
*The installation has been made possible through support from our many partners (see below). This is a fundraising event to raise income to support the Cathedral’s vision of being a place for all. There is no charge to enter Derby Cathedral; visitors are encouraged to make a donation of £5 to enjoy Helios.
If schools would like to book visits and/or educational sessions at Derby Cathedral during the Helios installation they should contact office@derbycathedral.org or 01332 341201.
Sponsored by:
Funded by:
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Derby Cathedral,
18-19 Iron Gate,
Derby,
DE1 3GP
Call: 01332 341201
Email: office@derbycathedral.org
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