The continually revolving images unveils our solar neighbour in extreme ultraviolet light – a part of the electromagnetic spectrum beyond human sight; this projected imagery makes the sphere itself appear to rotate. Image enhancement techniques highlight the finer details and texture of the solar atmosphere, which would otherwise be lost. Cycling through different ranges of temperature from a cool 4,500 degrees to an impossibly hot 10 million degrees, SUN reveals your star like never before.

SUN takes space-based observational data and brings this to life in an impactful physical form. In this way. the manifestation of such a familiar astronomical object is enthralling, conveying the excitement of cutting-edge science to the viewer. The resulting installation has been taken to numerous communities and venues where engagement with science museums or festivals would be challenging due to physical location as well as demographic makeup. Since 2019, SUN has been experienced by over 60,000 visitors and schoolchildren, to overwhelmingly positive reviews and national/international acclaim. Complementary to the “Wow!” factor of the installation, the SUN team work closely with host venues to deliver a targeted programme of additional engagement activities that focuses on local needs and opportunities. 

Further information can be found at www.seethesun.org If you are interested in having SUN as part of your event, please contact Professor Robert Walsh at rwwalsh@uclan.ac.uk

SUN is an incredibly versatile piece that generates opportunities for public debate across a wide range of space science and related areas.