Thousands to watch rare total eclipse

AUSTRALIA: Tens of thousands of people were flocking to Australia’s tropical north Monday to watch a rare total solar eclipse, a phenomenon officials say has not been seen in the region in 1,300 years.

The Queensland state government expects up to 60,000 visitors will witness on Wednesday the alignment of the sun, moon and earth which creates one of the most spectacular sights in nature, essentially turning day into night. Northern Australia is the only place where crowds will be able to view the eclipse, which will mainly take place over the vast South Pacific.

“This one is a bit unique because we are not going to have another eclipse in Australia for years,” said Journeys Worldwide managing director Dick Cijffers, who runs specialist eclipse tours.

AFP