James Kon
Bruneians had a chance to witness a partial solar eclipse as the astronomical phenomenon peaked over the country around noon yesterday. A special solar eclipse prayer was organised at Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital in conjunction with the event.
Around the mosque premises, the Survey Department had set up equipment to help attendees observe partial solar eclipse safely.
Aside from telescopes, the department also provided solar glasses to the public.
Haji Mohammad Saifull Rizal and his sons Mohammad Saifull Aiman, 8, and Mohammad Abdul Raziq, 7, were among the spectators, and expressed excitement for the chance to witness the phenomenon for the first time while also attending the special prayer.
The Survey Department also set up similar equipment at Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque in Tutong District, Mohammad Jamalul Alam Mosque in Belait District and Utama Mohammad Salleh Mosque in Temburong District.
The partial solar eclipse peaked at 12.13pm, and was livestreamed on the department’s social media.
Solar eclipse was last witnessed in the Sultanate on June 21, 2020. The next will be on July 22, 2028.
Meanwhile, the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam’s (PABD) Secretary General Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad was in Timor-Leste to witness a full solar eclipse as part of an outreach programme co-organised by astronomical societies in Brunei, Timor-Leste, Vietnam and Indonesia.
