DILI, 01 february 2023 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste will soon begin the preparation for the 2023 Solar Eclipse tourism surge.
Thousands of tourists and many scientists will flock to Timor-Leste to view a once-in-a-century total solar eclipse.
It is said that many will gather in Lautem, and Beaço of Viqueque municipality to view the eclipse.
To help get the preparations started, the General Director of Minister of Tourism, Trade, and Industry (MoTTI), Jelino Soares said that MoTTI will coordinate preparations with other relevant ministries for the major tourism event to be held in both municipalities: “We will maximize our preparations for the influx of visitors during the 2023 solar eclipse.”
About 50,000 tourists are expected to join many Timorese, hoping to catch a glimpse of the only total solar eclipse of 2023 on the island.
A Partial Eclipse of magnitude 0.9809 will be visible from Timor-Leste (East Timor) (Dili) on April 20, 2023. The maximum eclipse will be at 13:18:30 local time when 97.94% of the Sun’s surface will be covered by the Moon.
However, a total solar eclipse can be seen in the two eastern municipalities – Lautem and Viqueuqe on April 20.
Soares warned the communities that looking at a solar eclipse is dangerous for the eyes, saying it can cause a condition called solar retinopathy, which is when solar radiation damages the eyes.
According to scientists, looking at a solar eclipse can even lead to permanent blind spots or distortions in your vision.
“Inter-ministerial coordination is necessary to have maximum preparation for the tourist influx. We will organize meetings with community leaders to organize a series of special activities, including promoting our local products through exhibitions,” he said.
Soares added that Temporary Sanitary Facilities will be prepared to facilitate the tourists.
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
