Partial Solar Eclipse - 22nd Sep 2025

Service Description

On September 22nd, 2025, the Moon will pass between Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow across New Zealand in a partial solar eclipse. From our viewing location in Māraetai, observers will see up to 60.77% of the Sun’s disc obscured, a fascinating demonstration of celestial mechanics in action! Why This Is Cool 🌞 The Science Behind It: A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon’s orbit aligns perfectly to block part (or all) of the Sun from our perspective. Even though we won’t get a total eclipse this time, watching the Moon "take a bite" out of the Sun is still an epic sight! 🔭 Hands-On Astronomy: Use our solar-filtered telescopes to safely observe sunspots and the Moon’s silhouette. 📏 Shadow Experiments: Ever noticed how shadows sharpen during an eclipse? We’ll have tools to explore this unusual phenomenon. 🌊 Perfect Location: With a clear horizon, Waiheke Island Viewing Point offers an ideal spot to experience the eclipse. Is 5:30 am too early? Yes, it does! We recommend coming between 6:15 am and 7:30 am. Please don't miss the maximum eclipse (6:50 am). Event Highlights: 5:41 AM – First Contact (Moon begins covering the Sun). 6:50 AM – Maximum Eclipse (~61% coverage in Auckland). 8:36 AM – Last Contact (Moon moves away, event ends). Safety First – Protect Your Eyes! 🚫 Never stare directly at the Sun! (Even a sliver can cause permanent eye damage.) ✅ Safe viewing options: - ISO-certified eclipse glasses (can be purchased during the booking process at a very popular price, limited stock!). - Telescopes with projection. - Other projection devices. How to Prepare: ☕ Dress warm—mornings are chilly, even during an eclipse! 📱 Bring your phone (try capturing the eclipse through our telescopes). 🪑 A chair, bean bag, or blanket (standing for 3 hours? No thanks!). Why You Should Come: 1. Next chance in NZ? 2028! Don’t miss out. 2. Free experiments & expert guides—ask us anything about space! BOOKING The number of telescopes is limited; for that reason, booking is required. Limited eclipse glasses. Grab yours in the booking process for $10. VENUE Waiheke Island Viewing Point, Omana Esplanade, Māraetai https://maps.app.goo.gl/E8ZKS32EYmekFE4R8 STEM AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY These activities are family-friendly and ideal for kids. You will have a nice opportunity to learn more about the solar system and the Universe, and also to motivate interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) in young minds. Image Source: Sky at Night Magazine.