Double Eclipse in Eastbourne this August

31st July 2008

Look out into Eastbourne skies this August and watch the moon rise behind the lighthouse in a very special lunar eclipse.

Eastbourne Astronomical Society promises a once in a lifetime opportunity to view the town's Sovereign Lighthouse silhouetted against the moon in a lunar eclipse, disproving the famous theory that there are no seas on the moon! The lunar eclipse will take place just after 8pm on 16 August and astronomy fans are being invited to Helen Gardens to view the rare moment through telescopes and watch as the moon turns a brilliant orange red.

Eastbourne Borough Council Spokesperson for Tourism, Cllr Steve Wallis said "This is a very unusual event for Eastbourne and a rare opportunity to view such a special sight. With the partial eclipse of the sun also occurring in August, I'm sure we'll see visitors come from all over the country to witness the two eclipses from the beautiful setting of Helen Gardens."

The beginning of the month also sees a partial solar eclipse as the moon takes a bite out of the sun on the morning of 1 August. A specialist H-Alpha Telescope will allow visitors to look directly at the sun and view the eclipse in all its glory as it blocks off the sun's usually harmful rays.

Gordon Taylor from Eastbourne Astronomical Society said "I really would encourage as many people as possible to come along and view both eclipses. The view of the lunar eclipse with the lighthouse in the foreground is set to be quite spectacular and is something we'll never see again in this lifetime."

The timing of the lunar eclipse coincides with the sun setting and some viewers are heading for Beachy Head to try and catch a glimpse of the Full Moon rising in the east, while the sun sets in the west.

Both viewing sessions are completely FREE to the public and with the opportunity to view the eclipses up close through telescopes, the events make a unique day out with the chance to explore Eastbourne seafront and marvel at the natural wonders of space.

For further information contact Eastbourne Astronomical Society on 01323 739991 or visit www.visiteastbourne.com .