Hong Kong Space Museum to hold partial solar eclipse observation on April 20
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A partial solar eclipse will happen in Hong Kong on April 20. To facilitate members of the public's viewing of this astronomical event, the Hong Kong Space Museum will livestream this astronomical phenomenon on its YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/hkspacem) and "LCSD Plusss" Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LCSDPlusss) from 12.30pm to 1.20pm that day and set up solar observation tools at the Outpost, Salisbury Garden, Tsim Sha Tsui, as well as distribute solar viewers from noon to 1.30pm. Members of the public can also use the equipment to observe the Sun safely. Admission is free.
The maximum magnitude of this eclipse lies between 0.02 and 0.03, meaning that only two to three per cent of the Sun's diameter will be obscured by the moon. As the partial solar eclipse will begin around noon, it can be observed from many districts. Nevertheless, interested observers may consider going to places in Kowloon East or the eastern part of the Hong Kong Island, as the eclipse magnitude is slightly larger, hence the duration slightly longer at the southeastern side of the territory. A specialised solar filter is essential for observing the Sun safely. Never attempt to look at the Sun directly with the naked eye or through a telescope. Inappropriate methods like smoked glass or sunglasses may also cause permanent damage to the eyes. The next partial solar eclipse in Hong Kong will occur on July 22, 2028, the magnitude of which will be even smaller, with the moon making an indentation barely noticeable in the Sun's rim.
As astronomical observation depends heavily on weather conditions, members of the public are advised to check the latest weather update before observing. More information on the solar eclipse, including the beginning and ending times of the eclipse at various districts, safe ways to look at the Sun, arrangements of the observation activity at the Outpost, Salisbury Garden, Tsim Sha Tsui or details of the livestreaming, can be found on the Museum's website at hk.space.museum.
Ends/Tuesday, April 18, 2023
Issued at HKT 15:00
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