We all need a bit of a time out with a bit of a timewaster, but this week’s is a rarity and worth tuning in.
Astronomical events like eclipses are rare at the best of times, and it’s not every day you can look out your window and expect to see something amazing like a total or partial solar or lunar eclipse.
In Australia we’re not expected to see eclipses until next year, with two total lunar eclipses in 2018 and one partial solar eclipse, the latter of which probably won’t even be visible for most of the country. In fact, the next solar eclipse Australia will get to see is on Boxing Day — December 26 — in 2019, some time away.
But that doesn’t mean a solar eclipse can’t be seen, because while we have some time before one appears over our country, the internet will be broadcasting one appearing over the US tomorrow.
If you happen to be awake around 1:30 Tuesday morning, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to catch the start of the 2017 total eclipse, with NASA broadcasting coverage so you don’t have to risk your eyes.
Occurring in the early morning hours of Tuesday on Australia’s eastern side (or the late hours of the country’s western side), you’ll be able to catch the eclipse without risking your own eyes, which as most people know can be pretty seriously harmful because of the bright, bright sun behind the dark, dark moon.
And if you’re not awake, don’t worry too much, as you can expect news services to grab the photos and video, too, ensuring you won’t miss out, even if it might not be as live as the NASA-streamed event.
