With the state buzzing about the eclipse, 6PR Afternoons thought it would be interesting to find out what actually happens during a total solar eclipse and why it is such a big deal.

The next total solar eclipse will be over Sydney in 2028, the second of five predicted to occur over Australia in the next 15 years.

CSIRO astronomer Dr Vanessa Moss told Julie-anne Sprague on 6PR Afternoons total solar eclipses rely on the alignment of the sun, moon and earth.

“For a total solar eclipse to happen… is quite rare, it doesn’t happen all the time,” said Dr Moss.

Press PLAY below to find out why the eclipse was such a big deal

“The chances of it coming back to the same place is very small at any given time. “

Jenni Gates is an Exmouth local who witnessed the total solar eclipse and told Julie-anne Sprague she had never seen anything like it.

“It was just the most sensational experience,” said Ms Gates.

“We could see stars in the middle of the day.”

Press PLAY below to hear Jenni Gates’s incredible encounter with the eclipse

It’s the spectacular solar moment that had everyone in WA looking up. 🌘

Watch as the moon moves across the sun above Exmouth in a rare total eclipse, plunging a community into darkness. #9News pic.twitter.com/jXHsxZkWoS

— 9News Perth (@9NewsPerth) April 20, 2023