Science Learning Centre: Imagining Aurora
In 2004 Durham University was selected to be part of a £51m initiative developed by the Department for Education and Skills and the Wellcome Trust to create a national network of Science Learning Centres.
Commissioned as part of the new development ‘Imagining Aurora’ is an interactive suspended sculpture, powered by electro-magnets. As sensors react to human movement near the work the electro-magnets are energised. The balls and blades turn and change colour, creating a pulse type effect across the sculpture. The degree of movement is related to the activity of the sun at the precise moment of activation. This level is monitored continually by a radio receiver at the centre supplied by NASA as part of their educational outreach programme.
Slideshow
Image courtesy of Henry Amos
Artist(s)
Henry Amos.
Client
Durham University
Location
Durham
Project Management
Durham University
Completion Date
2005
