Chance to view Mercury from De La Warr Pavilion

East Sussex Astronomical Society (ESAS) is working with the De La Warr Pavilion​ (DLWP) in Bexhill to bring the rare event to the public.

Andy Lawes, chairman of ESAS, will be heading a group of astronomers on the south terrace of the DLWP.

They will have special H-Alpha telescopes which are dedicated instruments that only observe the Sun but make it completely safe to do so.

With these telescopes visitors will be able to see the planet Mercury against the solar disk, as well as view any solar prominences that are visible.

ESAS will also have white light filters to view the Sun which gives views of any sun spots that are on the Sun’s surface and Mercury’s disc as it tracks across the Sun.

This event is run by ESAS, an educational charity working with schools, clubs and the public to bring the wonders of the sky to the public.

The transit of Mercury is visible from 11.12am to 4.47pm and will not be visible again until 2019 and then 2032.

Telescopes are adjustable so that children and people in wheelchairs can view.

Warning: Never try to look directly at the Sun without the aid of special solar telescopes or filters. Looking at the Sun without this protection will cause irreversible damage to your eyes.

Please contact Andy for further information. Ring 07923 458516 or email [email protected].

​Visit www.esas.org.uk.

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