A total eclipse of the Sun took place on 11th July 2010. The path of this eclipse crossed vast open stretches of the Pacific Ocean and could only be viewed by people who were on a ship or on one of just a handful of islands in its path.
 

Expert astronomers

Two of our tours towho saw the Easter Island eclipse were fully accompanied by our expert Astronomers, who were on hand to give talks, explanations, answer any questions and give expert eclipse viewing tips. There was also the chance to spend a few further evenings stargazing and learning about the night sky.

Dr Francisco Diego accompanied the Atacama, Easter Island and Eclipse tour

Dr Francisco Diego was born in Mexico City. He has a PhD in Astronomy from UCL and has become an active populariser of Astronomy as an author, lecturer and producer of planetarium shows. He co-produced an educational TV program about total solar eclipses and collaborates with the media in a variety of projects. Francisco has been working with Explore on our Eclipse programmes since 2004. He is a veteran of many solar eclipse expeditions.

Mr Andy Green accompanied the Easter Island Eclipse & Atacama Adventure tour

Mr Andy Green has been actively involved in astronomy for more than 30 years and has travelled the world to meet space people from cosmonauts to Patrick Moore! He regularly lectures at schools and universities, museums and societies and has his own astronomy business including a mobile planetarium. He is passionate and enthusiastic about astronomy and enjoys sharing his passion with others.

When is the next total solar eclipse?

For those of you who weren’t able to make the journey to Easter Island, or who made the trip and have a yearning for more, then the next total solar eclipse will be in Australia in November 2012. Keep an eye on our website in the autumn for a chance to book Explore’s trips to Australia to view the next total solar eclipse.