When To See Sydney Harbor’s First Total Solar Eclipse Since 1857
On July 22, 2028, the city of Sydney will witness its first total solar eclipse since 1857. This rare celestial event is not only a spectacular opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts but also a chance to marvel at iconic landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and Opera House plunging into darkness.
The path of totality will pass through Western Australia, the Cocos Islands, Christmas Island, and ultimately reach Sydney in New South Wales. The mathematical point of maximum eclipse will be 5 minutes and 10 seconds in a remote area of Western Australia. However, for those seeking to experience the longest duration of totality in Western Australia, accessible areas on islands off the Kimberly coast and close to Lake Argyle offer an impressive 5 minutes and 3-4 seconds.
It is essential to note that clear skies are more likely away from Sydney. The chances of cloud cover during mid-winter are significantly smaller in remote Outback regions compared to the Australian city, with Christmas Island boasting a 65% chance of cloud, Cocos Islands 57%, and Sydney itself having only a 47% chance.
In New Zealand, the eclipse path crosses the South Island, where there is around a 60-70% chance of cloud. The centerline of the path passes over tourist meccas Queenstown and Dunedin, requiring careful location checking in advance to avoid missing this rare opportunity.
A rare moment awaits for photographers as Sydney’s iconic landmarks will be plunged into darkness, offering an unforgettable experience.
Source: www.forbes.com