Eclipsing Borders: a new project for the 2026–2027 solar eclipses

Eclipsing Borders officially launches as a new international outreach initiative connecting education, inclusion, and eclipse science ahead of two major celestial events: a growing, interactive collection of resources is available online and will be continuously updated, including information about the 2026 and 2027 eclipses, educational activities, and guidance on safe observation.

Eclipsing Borders is a joint initiative led by the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education Center Italy and the IAU Office for Astronomy Outreach National Outreach Coordinator Italy. The project aims to engage the public with the science and wonder of the 2026 and 2027 total solar eclipses across the Mediterranean region and beyond.

Total solar eclipses are rare and spectacular events that offer powerful opportunities for public engagement with astronomy and scientific thinking. Their strong visual and emotional impact can inspire curiosity, reflection, and interest in STEM fields, reaching both those who can observe the total eclipse and wider communities experiencing partial phases.

The initiative focuses on three main actions:

1. collecting and translating existing educational materials on eclipses into multiple languages and making them freely accessible;

2. co-developing new educational resources with an international network of National Astronomy Education Coordinators (NAECs);

3. running astronomy workshops in underserved communities in Italy to connect young people with the upcoming eclipses.

Explore the project Eclipsing Borders and discover all the resources here.