On July 22, 2028, the Moon will pass directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow across Sydney and creating one of nature's most spectacular events: a total solar eclipse. Here's everything you need to know.
What Is a Total Solar Eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely blocks the Sun's bright disk, revealing the Sun's outer atmosphere — the corona — as a ghostly white halo. It's possible because of a cosmic coincidence: the Sun is about 400 times wider than the Moon, but also about 400 times farther away, making them appear almost exactly the same size in our sky.
The Moon's shadow traces a narrow path across the Earth's surface called the path of totality. Only observers within this path — typically 100-250 km wide — experience the full eclipse. Everyone else sees a partial eclipse, which is interesting but fundamentally different from totality.
The Key Numbers
- Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2028
- Partial eclipse begins: 12:28 PM AEST
- Totality begins: 2:01 PM AEST
- Totality ends: 2:05 PM AEST
- Partial eclipse ends: 3:26 PM AEST
- Duration of totality: ~3 minutes 50 seconds (central Sydney)
- Sun's altitude during totality: 33° above the horizon (northwest)
- Path width over Sydney: ~230 km
What You'll Experience
The Partial Phase (12:28 PM – 2:01 PM)
For about 90 minutes, the Moon gradually slides across the Sun's face. You'll need eclipse glasses to watch this phase safely. As more of the Sun is covered:
- The light takes on an eerie, silvery quality
- Shadows become unusually sharp
- The temperature begins to drop
- If you're near trees, look for crescent-shaped light patterns on the ground
The Final Minutes
In the last few minutes before totality, things accelerate dramatically:
- The light dims rapidly
- You may see shadow bands — faint rippling stripes racing across flat surfaces
- The Moon's shadow becomes visible approaching from the northwest — a dark wall rushing toward you
Totality (2:01 PM – 2:05 PM)
This is the main event. The diamond ring effect flashes as the last bead of sunlight disappears — then:
- Darkness falls. Not true night, but a deep twilight
- The corona appears — the Sun's outer atmosphere, visible as delicate white streamers extending outward
- Stars and planets emerge in the daytime sky
- The horizon glows with sunset-like colours in every direction — you're looking at the edges of the Moon's shadow, where the Sun is still shining
- The temperature drops several degrees
- Birds and animals react as if night has arrived
This lasts for 3 minutes and 50 seconds. Then another diamond ring flashes on the opposite side, and daylight returns.
After Totality (2:05 PM – 3:26 PM)
The partial phase continues in reverse as the Moon slides away. The world returns to normal — but if you've experienced totality, you may not.
Where to Watch
The path of totality covers all of greater Sydney, so anywhere in the metro area will work. The centreline passes through the CBD, where totality is longest. Key considerations:
- Clear view to the northwest — the Sun will be at 33° altitude
- Open sky — avoid locations hemmed in by tall buildings
- Comfort — you'll be outdoors for several hours. Consider access to toilets, food, and shelter
See our viewing spots guide for a ranked list of the best locations.
Safety
You must use ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses during all partial phases. Looking at the Sun without proper protection causes permanent eye damage. During totality — and only during totality — you can safely view with naked eyes.
Read our complete safety guide for details on glasses, photography, and DIY viewing methods.
Weather
July is winter in Sydney. Historical data suggests roughly a 40-50% chance of clear skies. This is the biggest uncertainty. Check our weather guide for detailed analysis and backup plans.
How to Prepare
- Pick your viewing spot and plan your transport — viewing spots guide
- Get eclipse glasses — ISO 12312-2 certified
- Book accommodation early if you're travelling — travel guide
- Subscribe for updates — we'll send essential info as the event approaches
- Clear your calendar for July 22, 2028
This will be the first total solar eclipse over Sydney since 1857 and the last until 2858. Start planning now.