An Australian Astronomical Journey: The 2028 Total Solar Eclipse

The celestial spectacle of the 2028 total solar eclipse embarks on its majestic path across the globe, beginning in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. It weaves through the serene Cocos Islands and the festive atmosphere of Christmas Island, heralding its entry onto the Australian continent via Western Australia’s picturesque Kimberly region. Its trajectory then veers generally southeast, offering a breathtaking display across the Australian landscape, including a direct overhead passage over Sydney, before it ventures over the Tasman Sea towards the southern isles of New Zealand, concluding its awe-inspiring journey in the tranquil waters of the south Pacific Ocean.

Eclipse path July 2028

Nestled within this path of totality are towns and landmarks poised for a once-in-a-lifetime celestial treat. From the rugged landscapes of Kununurra and the expansive waters of Lake Argyle reservoir to the historic streets of Tennant Creek, Davenport, and Bedourie, each location offers a unique vantage point for this cosmic event. The eclipse’s shadow graces the likes of Thargomindah—destined for a repeat performance in 2030—along with Bourke, Dubbo, Gilgandra, Mudgee, Bathurst, Orange, Lithgow, Gosford, Wollongong, and envelops the Sydney metropolitan area in darkness. It doesn’t stop there; the eclipse extends its reach to Queenstown and Dunedin in New Zealand, enveloping these regions in its ephemeral embrace.

Preceding this astronomical phenomenon, the early hours of 7 July 2028 will host a partial lunar eclipse visible from Australia, setting the stage for the main event.

Total eclipse depiction in the far Northern Kimberley region

Eclipse enthusiasts and astronomers alike mark your calendars for 22 July 2028, for Australia is set to witness the longest-duration total solar eclipse of the 21st century. The eclipse’s zenith, boasting a maximum duration of approximately 305 seconds, will be experienced in the remote Kimberly region of Western Australia. This duration gracefully tapers as the eclipse progresses, touching 290 seconds as it crosses the Stuart Highway in the Northern Territory’s vast outback, diminishing further to 255 seconds near Thargomindah, and to about 224 seconds as it casts Sydney into twilight. The spectacle continues with a duration of about 167 seconds over Dunedin, New Zealand. Observers along the Western Australia and Northern Territory path will be treated to around 90 minutes of a partial eclipse phase before and after the total eclipse, with Sydney spectators enjoying about 70 minutes of partial eclipse as a prelude and epilogue to this celestial dance.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the awe and wonder of this cosmic journey, a testament to the grandeur of the universe and a reminder of the ephemeral beauty of our existence within it.