Passengers and crew aboard the Pacific Explorer, a P&O cruise ship, were treated to a remarkable experience during their recent 5-night voyage.
They had the opportunity to witness a total Hybrid Solar Eclipse, which is a rare astronomical phenomenon. The ship departed from Fremantle and anchored near Exmouth, Western Australia, providing an unparalleled view of the eclipse on April 20.
This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the first Hybrid Solar Eclipse visible from Australia in 1000 years, which passed over the North West Cape of Western Australia, including Exmouth. Known as the "King of Eclipses," the guests aboard the Pacific Explorer had the chance to observe the alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth's discs in a unique spectacle.
Numerous passengers, including the crew, congregated on the open deck of the Pacific Explorer to witness the rare solar eclipse, which lasted approximately 62 seconds and took around three hours. People from all around the world came on this voyage to observe this extraordinary event, and P&O Australia collaborated with the Astronomical Society of Australia and Dr. Rebecca Allen to provide a memorable and educational experience for all guests.
The cruise included unique presentations by professional astronomers from the Astronomical Society of Australia, who provided lectures, Q&A sessions, and imparted their expertise on eclipse and astronomy basics, cutting-edge astronomical research, and other special topics. Additionally, there were opportunities for stargazing, allowing guests to explore the Southern sky and learn about cultural knowledge.
Dr. Rebecca Allen, Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at the Swinburne University of Technology, was a featured presenter onboard Pacific Explorer. She expressed her awe, stating that Australia had experienced a remarkable solar eclipse.
"Those lucky enough to be at sea near the Ningaloo Reef, or on land at North West Cape and Exmouth, experienced totality which is when the Moon fully blocks the Sun, while a significant portion of the country was exposed to a partial eclipse."