- Perfect weather conditions for 2023 Total Solar Eclipse
- Global interest adds to local excitement
- Up to 18,000 people expected in Exmouth
Tens of thousands of people from around Western Australia, across the country and around the world have travelled to the Ningaloo region towns of Exmouth, Carnarvon, Onslow and Coral Bay to witness today's Total Solar Eclipse.
Visitors to the region include world-class astronomers, eclipse chasers and journalists from Europe, the United States, South America and more.
Taking centre stage is Exmouth, which will be covered by a 40-kilometre band of totality. The normal population of about 3,000 residents has swelled to about 18,000 people.
The eclipse will last for about three hours from 10.04am, but totality will be more fleeting. It will begin across a 40-kilometre band above Exmouth at 11.29.48am and will last barely more than a minute.
While a Total Solar Eclipse occurs somewhere on Earth every 18 months, it is incredibly rare for them to pass over land and in a place with the natural significance of our World Heritage-listed Ningaloo region.
There is an excited buzz in the region and a great atmosphere amongst the crowds.
The Dark Sky Festival, a series of music, culinary, art and cultural events put on to enhance the excitement, is in full swing. Locals and visitors alike have booked out many of the ticketed events, and a number of free events are also taking place across the region.
Work has been underway for months to ensure this spectacular regional and remote part of Western Australia is ready, willing and able for this week, and especially this history-making day.
The State Government has worked closely with the Shires of Exmouth, Ashburton and Carnarvon, to have provided grants to some 40 local businesses to help boost capacity in the region and invested almost $22 million dollars in infrastructure that will leave a lasting legacy, and benefit locals and tourists for years to come.
People not in the region will also be able to enjoy an eclipse experience. In Perth, the eclipse will be live streamed from Exmouth to the Yagan Square Digital Tower from 10am-1pm.
The Perth Observatory will also be live streaming the eclipse online from beginning to end.
It is important to remember that no matter where or how you participate, it is never safe to look directly at the sun, and doing so may cause eye damage.
If you do choose to use methods such as eclipse glasses, make sure you understand the risks. Visit the Healthy WA website to ensure your safety.
To find out more about the 2023 Total Solar Eclipse, visit https://ningalooeclipse.com
Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Roger Cook:
"This is an exciting day for Western Australia, a day to showcase the spectacular Ningaloo region to the world and to promote our State's stargazing, astronomy and astrophotography offerings.
"The eyes of the world are on Western Australia - and our place as a centre of science and innovation as well as our unique natural attractions are on show.
"The Total Solar Eclipse week-long experience is the culmination of many months of preparation and planning for the 14 State Government agencies, local shires, businesses and communities from across the State who have been working together to be ready to host this incredible event.
"There is a great atmosphere of excitement and anticipation - all fuelled by health doses of kindness, patience and courtesy."
Minister's office - 6552 6500
