Pupils view transit of Mercury across the Sun

Some lucky pupils managed to catch a projected view of Mercury’s recent transit across the Sun using a telescope and a safe method of viewing the sun called projection. Our LSA, Mrs Rowland, a keen astronomer, brought her telescope into school so that children could view this rare event. The little planet will not transit again until 2019 and then in 2032.

Keen Year 5 astronomer, Eddie Adams,  got to see the projected image of Mercury crossing the surface of the Sun. “It was awesome,” said Eddie, “I could see a tiny black speck going across the Sun – it is something I will always remember.”

Safety note: To avoid damaging your eyes never look directly at the sun with the naked eye or when using an optical instrument such as a telescope or binoculars.