On Wednesday evening, the beach in Playa de Palma became the centre for a solar observation organised by the AstroMallorca association.
It was a kind of rehearsal for the total eclipse of the sun on August 12. Mallorca is gearing up to attract thousands of visitors to observe this, while there is now an ongoing campaign to inform the public.
The observation on Wednesday was between Balnearios 4 and 5. This stretch of the coast, according to experts, will be one of the best locations in Palma to observe the eclipse. Yesterday and today were chosen as they reproduce the same trajectory of the sun, allowing those attending to check whether there will be a clear view of the phenomenon from Playa de Palma. The organisers said: "If you can see the sun from here at 8.22pm today, you’ll be able to see it on the day of the eclipse too."
Dozens of people went to observe the sun through telescopes with special filters and to receive first-hand information on how to prepare for the event. Eclipse glasses were distributed, and basic recommendations for safe viewing were offered. "Beyond simply looking at the sun, the important thing is that people know where they can see the eclipse well and how to do so safely."
The Mallorca Institute of Astronomy and Astronautics has been conducting trials of the exact point from various locations on the island, e.g. Andratx, Manacor and Santa Eugenia. This is being done to determine the optimal viewing locations for the eclipse. This began last Sunday and will conclude on Thursday and will assist town halls and other organisations in planning public viewing of "a historic and unrepeatable event".