EASTBOURNE residents are invited to witness a lunar eclipse through telescopes at Helen Gardens.
Eastbourne Astronomical Society promises a once in a lifetime opportunity to view the town's Sovereign Light Tower silhouetted against the moon in a lunar eclipse.
The eclipse will take place just after 8pm on August 16 and astronomy fans are bein
g invited to Helen Gardens to view the rare moment through telescopes and watch as the moon turns a brilliant orange red.
Eastbourne Borough Council spokesperson for tourism Councillor Steve Wallis said, "This is a very unusual event and a rare opportunity to view such a special sight."
The beginning of the month also saw a partial solar eclipse as the moon appeared to take a bite out of the sun on the morning of August 1.
Gordon Taylor from Eastbourne Astronomical Society said, "I really would encourage as many people as possible to come along and view the eclipse.
"The view of the lunar eclipse with the lighthouse in the foreground is set to be quite spectacular and is something we'll never see again in this lifetime."
The timing of the lunar eclipse coincides with the sun setting and some viewers are heading for Beachy Head to try and catch a glimpse of the full moon rising in the east, while the sun sets in the west.
The viewing session is free to the public.
q For further information contact Eastbourne Astronomical Society on 739991 or visit www.visiteastbourne.com or www.eastbourneas.org.uk
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