Eclipses without Borders (EwB) is a new AWB project designed to make it easier for amateur astronomy groups and the public worldwide to experience the beauty and wonder of solar and lunar eclipses. It will also provide an avenue to enable eclipse viewers to record and share their experiences.
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun. This is a rare event, happening only once in a few years; and because the area where the Sun is totally eclipsed is small, people must travel long distances to observe one. The EwB project will coordinate solar eclipse observations, and use live video to make it possible for more people to experience a solar eclipse without the need to travel. EwB can also help inform the public on how to view a solar eclipse safely, without damaging the eyes, and help dispel the superstition -- still prevalent in many parts of the world -- that viewing an eclipse is dangerous.
An eclipse of the Moon occurs when the Moon's orbit carries it into the Earth's shadow -- an event that happens about twice a year on the average. A lunar eclipse can be seen from any part of the Earth, provided the Moon is visible at the time of the eclipse. However, for much of the Earth it is daylight when the lunar eclipse occurs, making viewing impossible. EwB will provide video casts of lunar eclipses, enabling worldwide audiences to watch them regardless of the time of day.
Current Event:
Total Lunar Eclipse - 10 December 2011
(Image credit: Juan Carlos Casado)
Past Events:
Total Lunar Eclipse - 15 June 2011
Partial Solar Eclipse - 4 January 2011
(download print version)
Total Lunar Eclipse - 20-21 December 2010
